How to disinfect and clean a microphone

Handheld microphones can be disinfected by wiping them down thoroughly using isopropyl alcohol, isopropanol, or other disinfecting agents. Important areas to cover are the handle/ grip and the mics basket where the lips may come into contact.

You can also leave your mics to dry out in UV/ lighting or the sun for up to 72 hours as most bacteria on steel and plastic surfaces will die off within this window of time—UV radiation aids in this process.

You may have heard about ‘baking’ your mics in the oven – as heat can also help to combat bacteria that may be living on surfaces. It has been suggested that one can bake a mic in the oven at 70 degrees for 3 minutes and that the bacteria on all of its surfaces will die in this process.

However, we do not encourage chucking your microphone into the oven just yet, as this may lead to the deterioration of not only some aesthetic qualities but could also damage some functional things too if not done correctly.

Studio and condenser microphones may not come as close to the hands and the lips as a handheld mic. Nonetheless, it's important to assure that they get a good clean in between sessions.

Similarly to a handheld mic, you can use the methods mentioned above to ensure that all bacteria get stopped right in its tracks before jumping onto someone or something else.

What about the foamy porous stuff? The most effective way to clean pop filters and windscreens is to simply wash them with warm water and soap or left to dry for a minimum of 72 Hours.

Alternatively, those looking for more exciting ways to disinfect foamy stuff can have their fun with an electric steaming machine that will kill any bacteria within the porosity from the heat radiating out of the nozzle (be generous in your application of steam and go over it multiple times).

Cables and Mic stands should also be disinfected before being used again.

However, unlike metal and plastic surfaces, cables should not be wiped down with alcohol. If you need to disinfect your cables, do so by wiping them down with a damp cloth or sponge that has been soaking in warm water and soap.

Make sure to give them a good scrub as you would with your hands and they should be ok. Leave them to dry for a minimum of 72 hours to ensure that no water or moisture may be present. You could also use a steamer to quicken this process, the heat will kill those nasty germs!