Bose On-Ear cushions come off with a firm twist and snap back on the same way

The ear cushions on Bose On-Ear headphones (the QC35 II, SoundLink, and similar models) are designed to detach and reattach without tools. You twist the cushion counterclockwise about a quarter turn until it stops, then pull it straight away from the ear cup. The replacement cushion twists clockwise back into place until you hear or feel a click. The whole process takes under a minute per ear.

Bose sells replacement cushion kits directly, and third-party manufacturers also make compatible versions. The official Bose cushions cost between $25 and $40 per pair depending on the model. Before you buy, confirm your headphone model—the part number is usually printed inside the headband or on the box—because cushion sizes vary between models.

Key Takeaways

  • Twist the old cushion counterclockwise a quarter turn, then pull it straight off the ear cup post.
  • Check your headphone model number before ordering replacements, because Bose On-Ear cushions are not interchangeable across all models.
  • Replacement cushions from Bose or compatible third-party makers snap back on by twisting clockwise until they click into place.
  • The entire replacement takes less than two minutes and requires no tools, adhesive, or special knowledge.

Locate your headphone model before ordering

Bose On-Ear headphones come in several versions, and the cushions are not the same across all of them. The most common models are the QC35 II, SoundLink On, SoundLink Color II, and the original On-Ear. Your model number is usually printed on a label inside the headband, near where the band folds, or on the original box if you still have it.

Once you have the model number, search for "Bose [model name] replacement ear cushions" to find the correct part. Bose's official website lists compatible cushions by model, and the part number will be specific—for example, the QC35 II uses a different cushion than the SoundLink On, even though both are called "On-Ear" headphones. Ordering the wrong size will mean the cushion either does not fit the post or sits loose after you twist it on.

Remove the old cushion with a firm quarter-turn twist

Hold the headphone cup steady with one hand. With your other hand, grip the cushion itself (not the foam, but the plastic or rubber ring underneath) and twist it counterclockwise. You will feel resistance—this is normal. Turn it about a quarter turn (roughly 90 degrees) until the twisting stops. Do not force it past the stopping point.

Once the cushion has twisted as far as it will go, pull it straight away from the ear cup post. It should come off cleanly. If it feels stuck, twist it back clockwise to the starting position and try again with a slightly firmer grip on the ring itself. The cushion is held by a straightforward snap mechanism, not glue, so it should release with a firm but not violent pull.

Inspect the ear cup post before installing the new cushion

Once the old cushion is off, look at the plastic post sticking up from the center of the ear cup. It should be clean and free of foam debris or dried adhesive. If you see old foam stuck to the post, gently wipe it away with a dry cloth or your finger. Do not use water or solvents—the post is plastic and you only need to remove loose material.

Check that the post itself is not cracked or bent. If it looks damaged, the new cushion may not stay in place. A bent post can sometimes be straightened gently by hand, but if it is cracked, you may need to contact Bose about repair options, as the ear cup itself would need replacement.

Install the new cushion by twisting clockwise until it clicks

Align the hole in the new cushion with the post on the ear cup. Push the cushion straight down onto the post until it sits flat against the ear cup. The cushion should rest evenly all the way around—if one side is higher than the other, remove it and reseat it.

Once the cushion is seated, twist it clockwise (the opposite direction from removal). You will feel resistance as you turn. Keep twisting until you hear or feel a distinct click or stop—this means the snap mechanism has locked into place. The cushion should now be find and not move when you tug on it gently. Repeat the process for the second ear cup.

Test the fit and comfort after installation

Put the headphones on and check that both cushions sit evenly against your ears. The cushion should not rock side to side or feel loose. If one cushion feels looser than the other, remove it and twist it on again—it may not have clicked fully into place the first time.

Wear the headphones for a few minutes to make sure the new cushions are comfortable and the seal feels right. If the seal feels different from the original cushions, this is usually normal for new foam or padding, and it will settle after a few hours of use. If a cushion comes loose during this test, remove it and check that the post is clean and straight, then reinstall it with a firm clockwise twist.

Where to buy replacement cushions

Bose sells official replacement cushions through their website and authorized retailers. You can also find them on Amazon, Best Buy, and other electronics retailers. Third-party manufacturers like Dekoni, Brainwavz, and others make compatible cushions that often cost less than the official Bose version and may offer different materials—memory foam, leather, or velour instead of the standard fabric.

If you order from a third-party maker, read the product description carefully to confirm it lists your specific Bose model. Some third-party cushions are universal-fit and work across multiple models, but others are model-specific. Check the return policy before ordering, in case the cushion does not fit as expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cushions from a different Bose model on my headphones?

No. Bose On-Ear cushions are designed for specific models, and the post size and snap mechanism vary. Using the wrong cushion will result in a loose fit or a cushion that does not stay in place. Always confirm your model number before ordering.

What if the cushion will not twist off?

Make sure you are gripping the plastic ring under the foam, not the foam itself. The foam can compress and make the cushion feel stuck. Try twisting back and forth gently a few times to loosen it, then twist counterclockwise with a firm grip on the ring. If it still will not budge after several attempts, stop and contact Bose support rather than forcing it.

Do I need to replace both cushions at the same time?

No. You can replace one cushion while the other is still in good condition. However, if one cushion is worn enough to need replacement, the other is likely close behind, so many people replace both at once for consistency in comfort and sound.

Will new cushions change how my headphones sound?

Slightly. New cushions provide a better seal against your ear, which can make bass sound slightly fuller. The difference is usually small and settles after a few hours of use as the new foam breaks in. If the change feels significant, make sure the cushions are installed evenly and seated fully on the post.

How long do replacement cushions usually last?

Most cushions last one to two years with regular daily use before the foam compresses or the fabric wears. This depends on how often you wear the headphones, how you store them, and whether you expose them to heat or moisture. Storing the headphones in a case when not in use extends cushion life.