Apple’s AirPods Pro charging case has long been a polarizing design choice. On one hand, its sleek, polished surface gives it a premium look. On the other, that same glossy finish turns it into a magnet for fingerprints, dust, and smudges—especially for those who handle them frequently. Most users opt for third-party cases or silicone wraps to mitigate the issue. But one AirPods Pro owner decided to take a more drastic approach: they sanded it down.
The transformation was documented on Reddit, where the user—known as Dust-by-Monday—shared side-by-side images of the original case next to their modified version. Using 1,000-grit sandpaper, they stripped away the glossy coating, leaving behind a smooth, matte texture. The result feels ‘silky’ and ‘smooth,’ according to the user, and any dirt or grime that does accumulate can be wiped off more easily than on the original finish.
Not everyone is convinced it’s the right solution. Some Reddit users argue that a matte surface might actually trap dust in the micro-grooves created by sanding, potentially making it harder to clean over time. There’s also the risk of overdoing it—sanding too aggressively could weaken the case’s structure or leave uneven surfaces. For those without experience in refinishing materials, the process might not go as planned, leaving the case looking uneven or damaged.
This isn’t the first time someone has taken to sanding an Apple product for aesthetic or functional reasons. Earlier this year, a user demonstrated a similar technique on an M3 MacBook Air, using an orbital sander to soften the sharp edges before applying a polish for a more refined look. Both examples highlight a growing trend among tech enthusiasts who are willing to go beyond factory defaults to customize their devices—but they also come with caveats.
For most AirPods Pro users, a protective case or sleeve remains the safest and simplest solution. But for those who see the glossy finish as an unavoidable eyesore, Dust-by-Monday’s method offers an unconventional fix—one that trades off convenience for a more personalized touch.
