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Clean the Strings — Wipe the strings off with a dry microfiber cloth. This gets any small particles and gunk off and helps them last longer. You can also use D'Addario XLR8 String Lubricant which gives them a sleek feel and look, in addition to keeping them clean. It can even ward off early rusting.

If your strings no longer sound full or don't hold their tuning, then it's time to change strings. If your strings look or feel dirty, but still sound good and hold their tuning, you may want to replace them, but they do not necessarily require replacement. This is a gray area where you can use your judgment

The best electric guitar string brand often depends on personal preference and playing style, but popular choices include Ernie Ball for their bright tone and durability, D'Addario for their consistent quality and range, and Elixir for their long-lasting coated strings. Experiment to find the best fit for your sound.