How to Fix One AirPod Not Charging: Tips, Tricks, and a Little Real Talk

If you’ve ever Googled “one AirPod not charging,” you know the drill—countless Reddit threads, Apple Community posts, and troubleshooting guides all attempt to offer solutions.

But here’s the frustrating reality: sometimes, it just doesn’t work. As many AirPods users can attest, fixing this problem isn’t always straightforward, and often it’s a recurring issue.

So, Why Does This Happen?

If you’ve experienced this with different AirPods models, you’re not alone. Many users report similar frustrations, even with brand-new units. Some speculate that it could be the case’s alignment, the contacts getting dirty, or even a design flaw in how the AirPods sit in their case. And while Apple has been generous with replacements within the warranty period, those repeated trips to the Apple Store become a hassle over time—and that’s if your warranty hasn’t already expired.

If you’re dealing with a one-AirPod-not-charging scenario, you might find yourself questioning Apple’s engineering. Whether it’s a matter of the case, the contacts, or just bad luck, there’s no clear answer, which is probably why so many people end up looking for DIY solutions and workarounds.

Tried-and-Tested Fixes (and the Occasional Workaround)

Here are some ways you might get that stubborn AirPod charging again. These aren’t guarantees, but they’re the best place to start.

1. Check for Dirt or Debris in the Charging Case and on the AirPod

Dirt and debris can block the charging contacts. Try this:

Use a soft, dry cloth or a cotton swab to clean both the inside of the charging case and the bottom of the AirPod.
Reinsert the AirPod to see if it charges.

2. Make Sure the Case Has Enough Battery

It sounds obvious, but a low battery in the charging case is a common culprit.

Check the battery level by bringing the case close to your paired iPhone with both AirPods inside.
If the case battery is low, charge it fully and try again.

3. Reseat the AirPods in the Case

Sometimes, a simple adjustment works. Take out both AirPods and place them back in the case to ensure they’re seated properly.

4. Reset Your AirPods

If it’s still not charging, try resetting:

Place both AirPods in the case, press the button on the back until the LED flashes amber, then white.
Re-pair with your device and check if the issue is resolved.

5. DIY Hacks for When Nothing Else Works

Some users have found that placing a small piece of paper or even a chewing gum wrapper between the AirPod and the charging contact in the case can help with alignment. It’s a bit of a “last resort,” but if it gets the AirPod to charge, it might be worth it.

Additional Tips to Prevent Future Charging Issues

To minimize the risk of charging problems in the future, try these preventive tips:

Regularly Clean the Charging Case and AirPods: Dust and debris can accumulate over time, so it’s good to clean the contacts periodically.
Store in a Safe Place: Keep your AirPods case away from excessive moisture and dirt.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Exposure to extreme heat or cold can affect battery performance. Store your AirPods in a moderate environment when not in use.

But… Should You Really Have to Go Through This?

It’s understandable to feel frustrated by these issues, especially if you’re constantly troubleshooting a product you depend on. Apple’s AirPods have become essential tech for many, and it’s frustrating to encounter recurring issues that, by all accounts, should be avoidable with better engineering.

What If It’s a Case Design Issue?

In many cases, users find that replacing the AirPod doesn’t solve the problem long-term. The charging case itself could be part of the issue, with misaligned contacts or insufficient pressure keeping the AirPod from charging reliably. And while Apple offers replacement AirPods within the warranty period, cases don’t often receive the same attention.

At this point, it’s clear that many AirPods users feel let down by the product’s longevity, especially given the cost of replacing parts or buying a new set. It’s hard not to think that Apple could improve AirPods durability and reliability with a design overhaul.

Final Thoughts: Managing Expectations

AirPods are, no doubt, convenient and high-quality, but issues like one AirPod not charging dampen the experience. While the fixes above may work for you, they’re ultimately band-aid solutions to a recurring problem.

Until Apple addresses these issues head-on—whether by redesigning the case or offering easier repair options—AirPods users may need to continue relying on workarounds. And as annoying as it can be, sometimes that piece of Trident paper is all that stands between you and the music you love.

If nothing else works, consider a visit to Apple Support, especially if your AirPods are still under warranty. And if you’ve passed that period, it might be worth exploring AppleCare options or simply factoring in replacements as a cost of staying in the Apple ecosystem. Because as great as AirPods are, they aren’t exactly perfect—yet.

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Jamie Spencer

Jamie has been blogging about tech, making money online and entrepreneurship for the past 12 years. He is the proud owner of hugely successful website makeawebsitehub.com and has helped over 20k people start their own blogs.