Most times this will become an issue is with oiled filter elements and a user that doesn't know how to properly re-oil the element, resulting is an oil soaked filter that transfers the oil to the MAF.
I typically clean mine 1X/year regardless using the CRC in all my cars. Been doing it since the year 2000 & haven't ruined a MAF sensor yet
CRC MAF Cleaner is only product that should be used - do not use any other type of solvents, or alcohol, as they leave a residue of their own on the MAF wire in the process of drying, &
NEVER actually touch the MAF wire with anything such as cloth, fingers, etc.
Same idea as Electrical Contact Cleaner that has been used in industry since forever - cleans electrical items without actual physical contact & leaves no harmful residue.