Need to replace Bose ear pads? You’re in the right place. New pads restore comfort and the seal that keeps noise canceling strong. It’s quick and easy: 2–5 minutes, easy difficulty, about $15–$35. You’ll need new pads; some models also use inner scrims. Work gently around the rim. Don’t press on the drivers.
This guide covers QC35/II, QC45, NC700, and QuietComfort Ultra. Some pads snap into tabs; others use adhesive. I’ll show the exact steps, the few tools to set out, and the mistakes to avoid. You’ll also learn when to replace pads, how to fix a loose edge or weak ANC after the swap, and how to care for the pads so they last.
Quick Answer:
To replace Bose ear pads, power off your headphones. Gently peel off the old pads and, if present, remove the inner scrims. Align the new pads with the tabs or adhesive, avoiding pressure on the drivers. Press evenly around the rim for ~30 seconds per side, then check the seam all the way around for a tight, gap-free seal.
Does Bose Sell Replacement Ear Pads?
Yes, Bose sells official replacement ear pads for most of its headphones, including QC35/II, QC45, NC700, and QuietComfort Ultra. You can buy them directly from the Bose website under “Accessories” or from authorized Bose retailers. Genuine pads ensure a proper seal, correct fit, and the same comfort and sound quality your headphones had when new.
What you’ll need
- New Bose ear pads (QC35/II, QC45, NC700, QuietComfort Ultra)
- Inner scrims (for models that use them)
Tools:
- Microfiber or soft cloth
- Plastic card/pry tool (no metal)
- 70% isopropyl alcohol for a light rim wipe only
Time, cost, difficulty:
- Time: 2–5 minutes
- Cost: $15–$35
- Difficulty: Easy
Quick prep:
- Handle the cups gently; do not press on the drivers.
- Power off and unplug.
- Wash and dry hands.
- Clear a clean, flat, well-lit workspace.
- Identify left/right pads and scrims before you start.
How to replace your Bose headphone ear pads
Here’s how to replace Bose earpads on QC35, QC45, NC700, and QuietComfort Ultra models.
1. Power off. Protect the drivers.
Unplug cables. Hold the cup by the plastic rim. Don’t press the speaker mesh.
2. Lift the old pad.
Slide a fingernail or plastic card under the edge. Work around the rim. Tabs (QC35/II, QC45≈10 tabs, NC700): release every tab. Adhesive: lift slowly. Don’t twist.
3. Clean the rim.
Wipe the mounting rim with a microfiber cloth. If sticky, use a light 70% isopropyl wipe. Don’t soak.
4. Remove scrims (if fitted).
Start at the top edge. Peel away without touching the center. Keep L/R orientation.
5. Fit new scrims.
Match L/R. Align the ring. Press only on the adhesive. Fabric must sit flat—no folds.
6. Install the new pad.
Seat the pad on the rim. Tabs: hook one section, then click each tab around the circle—all tabs engaged. Adhesive: align and press evenly all the way around.
7. Set the seal.
Press firmly around the rim for 30 seconds per side. Run a finger around once more. Feel for gaps.
8. Final checks.
Sight the seam—one clean line. Rotate the cup slightly; the pad shouldn’t lift. Put them on. Seal should feel even; ANC and sound should be stable.
- If a corner lifts: reseat and press 30 seconds.
- If ANC is weak: confirm every tab clicked and scrims are flat, not flipped.
This sequence seats the pads correctly, locks the seal, and restores comfort and noise-canceling on the first try.
Check the Fit and Sound After Replacement
After installing the new pads, run a quick check to be sure everything sits right. Each pad should look even around the rim with no lifted edges or gaps. Gently twist the cups—if the pads shift or feel loose, press around the edges again for 30 seconds to reset the seal.
Put the headphones on and listen to music you know well. The sound should feel balanced, with strong bass and normal noise canceling. If it sounds thin or uneven, one side may not be sealed or a scrim could be out of place. Recheck both pads, smooth the fabric, and press the rim again until the fit feels snug and sound returns to normal.
If sound still feels off after replacing the pads, try resetting your Bose headphones.
When to Replace Your Bose Ear Pads
Plan to replace your pads about every 6–12 months. Heavy daily use, sweat, heat, or travel cases that squash the pads push you closer to 6 months. Light, occasional use leans toward 12 months.
Swap them sooner if you see flaking or tears, the cushions feel flat or loose, the seam lifts, there’s odor or skin irritation, or sound changes—bass drops, leaks around glasses, or ANC weakens. Fresh pads restore the seal, comfort, and the noise-canceling your Bose is built to deliver.
To keep your Bose gear in top shape, learn how to clean Bose earbuds safely.
FAQs about replacing Bose ear pads
Yes. Bose offers a trade-up program through its official website in select regions. You can send in your old Bose headphones and get a discount or store credit toward a new model. Visit Bose.com → Support → Trade-Up Program to check if it’s available in your country.
Most Bose headphones last about 5–7 years with proper care. Battery models may need new ear pads or a replacement battery over time, but the hardware can easily last longer if stored clean and dry.
Fast battery drain usually comes from age, high volume, constant ANC use, or firmware issues. Try updating the Bose Music or Connect app, lowering volume, and turning off ANC when not needed. If the battery still dies quickly, it may need service or replacement.
