How to Clean Your Game Controllers Without Damaging Them
During a pandemic, video games are more important than ever to our mental health ( and we’re not just talking about it ). And as more people play video games than ever , controllers are becoming the center of attention in many parties and family gatherings, which is why it is so important to regularly clean controllers and other common play equipment.
Whether you need a sanitizing wipe or it’s time for a deeper, regular cleaning, here’s how to safely clean your game controllers. While we’re focusing on console controllers , you can use the same strategies to clean up your keyboard and mouse, handheld devices like the Nintendo Switch, and VR headsets and peripherals.
First step: wash your hands (or put on gloves). Then make sure everything is disconnected and properly turned off to prevent electric shock or electric shock. Disconnect all charging or headphone cables from your PlayStation or Xbox controllers. If you are cleaning the Nintendo Switch, remove the Joy-Cons, turn off the system, and remove the game cartridge. For VR headsets: Turn off the headset and controllers, then disconnect all cables.
With everything turned off and unplugged, the next step is to wipe down the controllers with a safe disinfectant. The key here is to use a solution that is strong enough to disinfect, but will not damage the device, but the correct product will depend on what you are cleaning.
Screens such as a Nintendo Switch display, TV, smartphone screen, or VR headset lenses should not be cleaned with alcohol or cleaning agents such as Windex, as they may damage the glass. Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove stains and dust from the controllers or the system case, and be sure to remove the Joy-Cons of your Switch before disinfecting (Switch Lite controllers cannot be removed, so take extra care not to touch the screen when wiping the console with cleaning agents ).
Use non-abrasive disinfectants on controllers. Nintendo’s official support page suggests using products with a maximum alcohol content of 70% on Joy-Con Switch controllers, and this is also a safe ratio for most other gaming peripherals . Most disinfectant wipes are safe to use, but be sure to check all liquid cleaners you use and never immerse controllers or accessories in water.
After using a disinfectant wipe, let the controller stand for about 10 minutes before drying completely with a dry microfiber towel.
This should be sufficient if you disinfect between normal uses. However, if you want to clean the controller more thoroughly, use a dry toothpick or cotton swab to gently remove dust and dirt from the seams around each button and any other areas prone to plaque build-up. When done, quickly wipe the controller again and you’re done.