You can clean this material...it's Alcantara as far as I know, but even if it's a more generic microsuede, it can absolutely be cleaned. I think the leather pads for your Elears are going to change the sound signature in a very significant way.
Yes they can be cleaned, but do you really want the hassle?
And the more you clean them the more they’re going to get worn out. Soon they’ll develop little nodules, and the material itself will thin out. With good quality leather pads and headbands, just the occasional wipe with a wet cloth and, if you want, some leather ‘food’ once in a while to prevent cracking, and they’ll last for years.
Replacement Elear pads, by the way, cost as much ($150) as premium lambskin pads for my LCD-3. That’s plain and simple price gouging, considering how poor the material actually is.
Please don’t get me wrong, I think my Elears (and no doubt the Clears) are exceptional headphones. Probably among the best there is right now and perfect for the sound signature I like. Which is why I’m so passionate about sorting out the material issue.
I’ve already emailed Focal to ask how I can maintain and protect the headband, but have received no reply as yet.
As for leather pads, they’ve been measured by Dekoni to have almost the same sound as stock, so no issues there. And I guarantee you they’ll be more comfortable and more durable at half the price.
One day I’ll pick up a pair of Elex pads (when they’re sold separately) and have myself an Elex as well as an Elear with one headphone. Won’t be touching the Clear until they change the fabric.
Edit: several users on the “other” site reporting headband stains from oily hair that can’t be cleaned. That’s downright unacceptable in a product of this class and price.