Do not seal damp earphones straight into a case. A case protects against knocks and dust, but it can also trap the moisture left after a warm commute or a long listening session.
Before putting them away
Disconnect the earphones from the source. Wipe the shells and cable with a clean, soft cloth. Remove damp tips carefully and let the parts dry in a ventilated place, away from direct heat.
Check the nozzle and connectors for visible moisture. Do not force anything into the openings. If sweat regularly reaches the earphones, check the model’s intended use and water-resistance guidance rather than assuming every IEM is suitable for exercise.
Keep the case dry too
A damp lining defeats the purpose of drying the earphones. If you use desiccant, keep it in an intact packet and replace or regenerate it as directed. Do not allow loose granules into nozzles or connectors.
Give the cable some room
Coil it loosely instead of folding it sharply at the plug or earpiece. Avoid pulling on the wire to unplug it. You do not need to disconnect the earpiece connectors after every session; unnecessary connection cycles add wear.
Watch for a pattern
If output repeatedly fades after use, storage may be only part of the problem. Persistent crackling, corrosion or imbalance needs troubleshooting. Read why IEM volume can drop during listening before assuming another drying session will fix it.