I used to work at Apple's Genius Bar, and I'm begging you to buy the right AirPods this Black Friday so my ex-colleagues don't have to clean the gunk from your ear

AirPods Black Friday deals are a staple of this time of year, and this year's AirPods Pro 2 offer ranks among the best Black Friday deals of the whole shopping event. There are discounts on other models too, but the AirPods Pro 2 at Amazon for $139.99 (was $239) is a clear stand-out, saving you nearly $100 on Apple's best earbuds.

But anyone can look at prices and tell you something's a good discount. You need the inside scoop. Before I was a full-time journalist, I worked at Apple's Genius Bar.

Over the years, I spent many days saving AirPods of all shapes and sizes from ear wax clog purgatory, and now I'm happy to share my knowledge to help you avoid gross, clogged-up speaker grills, sound issues, and the embarrassment of asking a stranger to correct your personal hygiene.

Today ...