Why Constant Headphone Use Could Be Riskier Than You Think

Headphones are part of everyday life. We use them on commutes, during workouts, at work, and even to unwind at home. Convenient and compact, they seem harmless—but a viral simulation video has sparked widespread concern by revealing just how unhygienic constant earbud use can become.

Earlier this year, millions of social media users were shocked after watching a short animated video that demonstrated what happens when headphones are placed in the ear repeatedly without proper cleaning.
The Video That Alarmed the Internet

The viral clip, titled “Why Your Headphones Are GROSS”, was uploaded by creator Zack D. Films and has amassed more than 15 million views. In just 31 seconds, the animation shows what headphones look like on a microscopic level after repeated use.