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A bose noise cancelling headphones 700 cushion kit lets you replace worn or flattened ear pads on the Bose 700 over-ear model without buying a new headset. In this guide you will confirm which pad style fits your headphones, remove the old cushions safely, install the replacements, and check that the seal and noise cancelling performance are where they should be. The whole job usually takes under 15 minutes with no special tools.

Why replace the ear cushions on Bose 700 headphones?

Over-ear pads wear out in predictable ways. The protein leather or fabric surface can crack, peel, or flatten, and the foam underneath loses its rebound after thousands of hours of compression. Owners often report that once the seal weakens, bass feels thinner and outside sound leaks in more, which makes the active noise cancelling work harder and sometimes sounds less effective.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 9 Best Sound Cancelling Headphones Beats Buyers Compares in 2026.

Replacement cushions restore the original seal and comfort. They are also a simple way to refresh the look of the headphones if the outer surface has started to discolor from skin oils. If the headband padding or the ear cups themselves are damaged, a cushion swap will not fix that, so inspect those parts first.

What to check before you buy

Not every cushion that looks similar will fit the Bose 700. Before you order, confirm the following:

  • Model compatibility: Make sure the kit is listed for the Bose 700 (sometimes called the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700). Other Bose models use different cushion shapes and attachment methods.
  • Material preference: Protein leather is the most common choice and matches the original look. Velour or suede-style covers can feel softer but may collect dust and pick up oils faster.
  • Thickness: Some third-party sets are slightly thicker or thinner than the factory pads. A thicker pad can tighten the clamp force, while a thinner one may leave a small gap at the ear. If you wear glasses, a softer, slightly thinner pad often reduces pressure at the temples.
  • Quantity: Most kits include two cushions, one for each ear cup. Check that you are not buying a single pad by mistake.

Tools and supplies you need

  1. The replacement cushion kit, unopened and checked for the correct model.
  2. A clean, soft work surface such as a microfiber cloth or towel to protect the ear cups from scratches.
  3. A plastic trim tool or a thin, flat, non-metal tool (a guitar pick or plastic spudger works well). Avoid metal screwdrivers, which can scratch the housing.
  4. Isopropyl alcohol (70 percent or less) and a lint-free cloth for cleaning the cup surface before installation.

Step-by-step: how to install the cushions

Step 1: Power off and disconnect

Turn the headphones off and unplug any cable. This prevents accidental button presses and protects the electronics while you work near the ear cups.

Step 2: Remove the old cushion

Grip the outer edge of the cushion and pull it straight off the ear cup. The cushion is usually held by a set of plastic clips and friction rather than screws. If it resists, work your trim tool gently around the perimeter, lifting one small section at a time. Do not force the tool under the cup housing where the internal wiring runs.

Step 3: Clean the mounting surface

Wipe the exposed plastic rim with a cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Remove any old adhesive residue and let the surface dry completely. Clean ear cups seat more firmly, and dust left behind can cause a slightly raised edge.

Step 4: Align the new cushion

Each replacement cushion has a defined orientation. Look for the alignment notches or contour on the inner edge and match them to the ear cup. Do not stretch the cushion before alignment, as this can distort the foam.

Step 5: Press the cushion into place

Start at one point on the rim and press the cushion down, working your way around in a steady loop. You should hear or feel the clips or magnetic seat engage. Press firmly along all edges so there are no gaps, especially at the top where the headband joins.

Step 6: Test fit and seal

Power the headphones on and put them on. Check three things:

  • The cushion sits flat against the ear with no lifting at the edges.
  • You can feel a light, even clamp rather than a tight ring of pressure.
  • Play a steady low-frequency sound (such as a bass-heavy track) and listen for changes. A good seal keeps bass full. A leak sounds thin and hollow.

Repeat the process for the second cup.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using metal tools: Metal can scratch or dent the plastic housing and leave permanent marks.
  • Skipping the cleaning step: Dust or old adhesive under the new cushion breaks the seal.
  • Pressing too hard in one spot: This can bend the rim and cause uneven seating.
  • Mixing up left and right: Cushions can look identical, but alignment notches will not match if you install them on the wrong cup.
  • Ignoring the headband: If the headband cushion is worn, the headphones may still slip or pinch even with new ear pads.

Tips for longer-lasting cushions

  • Wipe the cushions with a dry cloth after each long session to reduce oil buildup.
  • Store the headphones in a case away from heat sources, since high temperatures can soften foam and adhesive.
  • Avoid wearing the headphones on sweaty days without cleaning the pads afterward.
  • Rotate between two pairs of cushions if you use the headphones daily and want to extend the life of each set.
  • Isopropyl alcohol wipes: Useful for cleaning the ear cup rim before installing new pads. View on Amazon
  • Plastic pry tool kit: A set of nylon or plastic spudgers helps you lift old pads without scratching the housing. View on Amazon
  • Microfiber cleaning cloths: Soft, lint-free cloths protect the cups during removal and cleaning. View on Amazon

For more background on how the seal affects performance, see How Passive Noise Isolation Works in Headphones. If you are weighing whether to keep these headphones or upgrade, Are Noise-Canceling Headphones Worth It? Where ANC Helps and Where It Doesn’t covers where active noise cancelling makes the biggest difference. For general care, Essential Guide to Headphone Cleaning Kits lists supplies that work well on headphone surfaces.

FAQ

Will a bose noise cancelling headphones 700 cushion kit change the sound?

It can. Because the seal and pad thickness affect how much sound leaks in and how bass is shaped, a different pad may sound slightly brighter, warmer, or fuller. Most owners find that a correct fit restores the original balance.

Do I need to remove the headband to change the ear pads?

No. The ear cushions attach to the ear cups and can be replaced without touching the headband assembly.

How often should I replace the cushions?

Replacement depends on use and care. Many owners replace pads when the surface cracks, flattens, or no longer seals well, which often takes years of regular use.

Can I wash the ear cushions?

Wipe them with a slightly damp cloth and mild soap, then dry thoroughly. Avoid soaking them, since water can weaken the adhesive and foam.

Will new cushions affect noise cancelling?

A good seal supports noise cancelling. If the new pads leak, outside sound will be harder to block. Test the fit by listening for changes in low-frequency sound after installation.

What if one cushion will not seat properly?

Remove it, recheck the alignment notches, and clean the rim again. If it still does not sit flat, the cushion may be defective or the wrong model, so contact the seller or manufacturer.

Is it safe to use third-party cushions?

Third-party cushions are widely used. Check that the material is skin-friendly and that the product is made for your exact model. If you have a skin sensitivity or allergy, look for a cushion made with hypoallergenic materials and consult a physician or dermatologist if irritation develops.

Conclusion

Replacing the ear cushions on the Bose 700 is a quick, low-risk fix that restores comfort and seal. Confirm model compatibility, clean the cup rim, align the new pads carefully, and test the fit before you rely on them. With the right bose noise cancelling headphones 700 cushion kit and a little patience, your headphones can feel close to new again.