Proper Microphone Hygiene

In Audio, Continuing Education, home_page, Web Articlesby admin

from DPA

Much of the time, microphones are used in situations where germs can spread with ease. This can especially be the case in houses of worship, with many different users using mics held or placed close to the mouth. In all situations, cleaning your mics regularly is a good idea for everyone.

With COVID-19 causing havoc these days, it is especially vital to take all the steps we can to stay healthy. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to clean your mics, here are our tips. Wash your hands, stay safe and remember to support your fellow human beings.

Keep Your Mic Clean and Germs at Bay

Here are some guidelines that you can follow to keep your microphones in great working order and make sure they are hygienic for users. Remember, the most effective way to keep everyone around you healthy and happy is to practice good hand hygiene.

Miniature & subminiature lavaliers and headsets

We have created short instructions on how to clean DPA Miniature, Subminiature, 4099 Instrument and Headset Microphones. These instructions work for both our omnidirectional and directional mics. Cleaning of mics should be done without grids, caps or foam screens for a proper rinse and to allow the water to evaporate fully when drying out. No cleaning fluids should be used – you will only need demineralized water.

Alternatively, let the microphone dry out on its own after use for 72 hours or place it in an oven at 60°C (140°F) for 30 minutes (please note, this will age the microphone a bit). This process will not clean the microphone but it will allow time for any germs to die.

The video below shows how you can clean all of your DPA Miniature, Subminiature, 4099 Instrument and Headset Microphones. These instructions work for both our omnidirectional and directional mics.

Headsets, clips, booms, grids and adapters can be wiped down on their surface with a cloth moistened sparingly with isopropyl alcohol.

Handheld and pencil microphones

These microphones can be wiped down on their surface with a cloth moistened sparingly with isopropyl alcohol.

Alternatively, let the microphone dry out on its own after use for 72 hours or place it in an oven at 60°C (140°F) for 30 minutes (please note, this will age the microphone a bit). This process will not clean the microphone but it will allow time for any germs to die.

Cables

Cables cannot tolerate alcohol, but coconut oil is known for its disinfectant properties and can be used instead. Otherwise, we recommend gently washing them in warm water and soap or rubbing them with olive oil.

Foam windscreens

Foam windscreens for miniatures and headsets as well as larger mics can be removed and washed with warm water and soap.

Alternatively they can be removed and left to dry out on their own for 72 hours. This process will not clean the foam windscreen but it will allow time for any germs to die.