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Just anecdata, but I have been running with non-pro AirPods for years with no problems like one you describe. I tend to sweat a lot, so by the end of the run they are pretty wet. No shorting or other electrical issues.

The only problem I've had was ear wax buildup (yeah, gross, I know) with the first/second AirPods generation (the ones with the long stem). I was able to use alcohol & hydrogen peroxide to clean them up a bit, but eventually the sound is muffled pretty bad.

I have recently switched to a pair of the latest version, AirPods 3 (with the shorter stems) and they seem to be made better in general. No sound problems and they seem to stay cleaner with minimal regular cleaning. I use a toothpick to gently remove any buildup as needed. The fit of the 3s is significantly different that the older version and did require some getting used to. They are a bit larger in the ear.


>>The only problem I've had was ear wax buildup

I purchased a hearing aid cleaning kit[0], and the little wire loop tool is excellent at removing wax.

[0]https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B089QMMSWW/

The only problem I've had was ear wax buildup

Fun-tac is your friend.

What's "fun-tac"?
I googled it for you: https://www.loctiteproducts.com/en/products/fix/general-purp...

It's mounting putty or sticky putty. You moosh it into your airpods and it grabs all the little debris that may be stuck to them.

There's also keyboard cleaning gels made specifically for this purpose: https://nerdtechy.com/best-keyboard-cleaning-gel

Huh, thanks, that does sound quite useful!
This is a good idea! I will look into it.
I had to get somewhat elaborate to keep the long-stem AirPods clean, with the Pros, it's really just getting the goo off them and the case. They seem impervious.

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