When Should You Replace Your Headphones? 

Your headphones will likely need to be repaired at some point. Fortunately, many audio and electronics shops offer headphone repair services. 

Foam ear pads can become worn out over time, especially if they're constantly exposed to sweat, dirt, and other environmental contaminants. When they start to peel, it's a good idea to replace them with new ones. 

Sound Quality 

If you are buying headphones for listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you want them to sound as good as possible. If they start to sound muffled or distorted, it is probably time for an upgrade. 

Headphones are exposed to dirt, dust particles, and earwax, which can damage their components and impact sound quality. Cleaning them regularly and storing them in a protective case will help them last longer. 

You should also replace your headphones if they have an unpleasant odor. Over time, the ear pads can absorb sweat and can cause a bad smell. Replacing the ear pads will restore the headphone's functionality and improve their comfort. 

Comfort 

A great pair of headphones can be as comfortable as a pillow on your head while listening to music or podcasts. Over time, however, the padding on your headphones can start to break down, making them less comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Thankfully, you can easily replace the ear pads on your headphones for a fraction of the cost of a new pair. 

If you notice that your headphones are a bit loose on your ears, or if they're starting to feel stiff and rough against your skin, it's definitely time for replacement ear pads. You can find headphone ear pad replacements online, and the process is usually very easy. Just make sure to find a set that fits your brand and model of headphones, as not all sellers offer replacements for every type of headphone. 

Also, be aware that some replacement ear pads are made with different materials than your originals, and they may not be as soft or breathable. Lastly, be sure to clean any old glue residue off of your headphones before you put the new ear pads in place. 

Battery Life 

Headphones are intricate electronic devices with numerous internal components and wiring. Rough usage can wear them down faster than expected. The wires, solder, and connectors can break easily if you bend them too many times or drop them frequently. Headphones usually start to worsen after 2-3 years of consistent use, but they can last a little longer with proper care.

All headphones with active features have a battery that depletes over time. They can either have external AAA batteries that are replaceable, or embedded Li-ion/Li Polymer ones that require charging only. We test how long a pair of headphones can play music with their battery fully charged, and how much one charge cycle affects the headphone performance efficiency. 

Warranty 

Headphones are complex devices with intricate electronic components that can be broken or degraded by rough handling. Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you keep your headphones in good condition for longer. 

For example, you can extend the lifespan of your headphones by taking good care of them and storing them properly. You should always store your headphones in a case to prevent them from gathering dust or being damaged by the light and air. You should also avoid sharing your headphones with other people if possible, since they might be handled harshly and damaged more quickly. 

Another way to know when your disposable headphones/headsets are in need of replacement is by listening to them. If they start sounding muffled or distorted, you need to get a new pair. In addition, you should listen to them at different volumes to see if they still produce quality audio at high levels. You should also pay attention to rattling noises that are caused by physical damage, such as hitting the headphones on the surface or stuffing them in a bag.

Luckily, school headsets now are made with much better durability and the quality can last for many many years.