How do I clean the Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds?

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Look, I know cleaning earbuds isn't exactly exciting, but it makes a real difference—both for hygiene and sound quality. Here's how I keep my Sony WF-1000XM6 in top shape.

After every use (takes 10 seconds):

Quick wipe with a soft cloth. That's it. Gets rid of sweat and oils before they build up. Pay extra attention to those little mesh grilles over the speakers—that's where earwax loves to collect, and when it does, your music starts sounding muffled.

Once a week (takes 5 minutes):

This is the deeper clean. Remove the silicone ear tips and wash them with a little soap and warm water. Let them dry completely before putting them back on—at least an hour or two, ideally longer.

For the speaker mesh, grab a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly) and gently brush in one direction to push debris OUT, not further in. If there's stubborn earwax stuck in there, dampen a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol and carefully clean around the mesh. Be gentle—you don't want liquid getting inside.

The charging case needs love too. Wipe the inside with a dry cloth, especially the charging contacts. Those little metal pins can get gunky.

What NOT to do:

Don't dunk these in water. I know they're IPX4 rated, but that's for sweat and light splashes, not cleaning. Don't spray compressed air into them—you'll just push debris deeper. And please, no toothpicks or sharp objects poking at the mesh.

Quick troubleshooting:

If one earbud suddenly sounds quieter than the other, nine times out of ten it's earwax blocking the mesh. A good cleaning usually fixes it right up.