Yes, ear wax can affect your AirPods. A build-up of it will eventually block the audio, and AirPods design makes them susceptible to build-ups. One of the reasons for this could be because they sit in a protected case when not in use. To give them a thorough cleaning, consider using the list of tools below: 1. Any kind of almost-pure cleaning alcohol, like rubbing alcohol. 2. A rag, a lint-free cloth, a paper towel, or a few pieces of toilet paper. 3. Cotton swabs. 4. A scraper or a brush. Use the above or similar tools to free your AirPods of ear wax build-up.