Question

What do I do, my earbuds got washed and put into the dryer and only one bud works. It's bothering the hell out of me. I checked my settings, I cleaned the jack, and I blew into the port and only one works. What do I do?

Answer 1

I'm sorry to hear about your earbuds getting washed and put into the dryer. Water damage can often cause issues with electronic devices, including earbuds. Since you've already tried some basic troubleshooting steps and only one earbud is working, here are some additional things you can try:

1. Let them dry thoroughly: If water got inside the earbuds during the washing and drying process, there might still be some moisture trapped inside. Leave the earbuds in a dry, warm place for at least 24-48 hours to ensure they are completely dry before using them again.

2. Check the connections: Inspect the earbud connections carefully. Look for any signs of corrosion, rust, or water damage on the metal connectors. If you notice any issues, gently clean them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Allow them to dry completely before testing again.

3. Try a different device: Test the earbuds with another device, such as a different smartphone, tablet, or computer. Sometimes, the issue might be with the device's audio output, not the earbuds themselves.

4. Check the audio balance settings: Some devices allow you to adjust the audio balance between left and right channels. Ensure that your audio balance settings are centered and not favoring one side.

5. Reset or update the device: If the earbuds are working fine with other devices, but not with a specific device, try resetting the device or updating its software/firmware.

6. Contact the manufacturer: If none of the above steps work and your earbuds are still under warranty, reach out to the manufacturer's support for assistance or a possible replacement.

7. Consider professional repair: If your earbuds are no longer under warranty and the issue persists, you may want to explore professional repair services. However, keep in mind that repair costs for earbuds can sometimes be comparable to purchasing a new pair.

Unfortunately, water damage can be tricky to fix, and it's possible that the affected earbud may never fully recover. In the future, be sure to keep your earbuds away from water and handle them with care to avoid similar incidents.