How to Clean Electronics Like TV Remotes & Controllers

An old man holds up a tv remote and wipes it with a white cloth, a plaid upholstered chair in the background.

Kick off movie night with a clean remote. Find out how to safely clean your TV remote and gaming controllers. Get tips to disinfect, remove sticky residue and keep your electronics clean.

More from Clorox experts

When you kick back for a movie or video game night, is your remote or controller ready? Electronics and remotes can collect dirt and grime from constant handling, transferring oils (or popcorn butter), sweat, and skin particles onto buttons and surfaces. Dust, food crumbs and airborne debris can also settle into crevices over time. Without regular cleaning, buildup can cause sticky buttons and worn surfaces and even affect your device’s performance.

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How often should you clean electronics & remotes?

Your TV remotes and gaming controllers see a lot of action. To keep them clean, wipe them down about once a week to prevent the buildup of dirt, oils and germs from regular use. During cold and flu season, or if someone in your house is sick, disinfect them daily to help reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses on surfaces. Regular cleaning also helps keep buttons working properly over time. Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting electronics.

What to use to clean electronics & remotes

Steps to clean remotes & controllers

  1. Power down the device

    If your device uses an electrical outlet, make sure it’s turned off and unplugged.

  2. Dust surfaces

    Use the microfiber cloth to wipe away any dust prior to sanitizing with Clorox™ Disinfecting Mist.

  3. Spray Clorox™ Disinfecting Mist

    Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting electronics. Hold the nozzle 6 to 8 inches away from the item and lightly spray the mist.

    Tip

    Surface should stay visibly wet for 30 seconds to sanitize.

  4. Air dry

    Let treated surfaces air dry completely before handling.

For more thorough cleaning and sanitizing of high-touch devices, you’ll be happy to know that the Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipes you love can be used on most hard, nonporous surfaces. Before you get started, check manufacturer instructions to confirm that bleach-free disinfecting wipes can be safely used on your device.

How to clean a TV screen

Don’t let dust get in the way of 4K. To clean your TV screen, use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a screen-safe cleaner. Gently wipe the screen in a circular motion to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid using harsh chemicals or paper towels, as they can damage the screen. Check out more tips on how to clean gadgets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you clean sticky controller buttons without rubbing alcohol?

Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting electronics. To clean sticky controller buttons without rubbing alcohol, you can use a Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipe or dampen a soft cloth or cotton swab with a bit of warm, soapy water. Gently wipe around and under the buttons, making sure not to let excess moisture seep into the controller. After cleaning, dry the area with a cloth and let the controller air dry completely before using it again.

Is alcohol good for cleaning a controller?

Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70%) is great for cleaning controllers because it evaporates quickly and safely removes dirt, oils, and grime without harming most surfaces. It's especially handy for cleaning around buttons and tight spaces where sticky residue can accumulate. Just remember to apply it lightly with a cloth or cotton swab and avoid soaking the controller to keep moisture from getting inside.

Are disinfectant wipes okay to use on game controllers?

Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting electronics. Disinfectant wipes are generally safe for cleaning game controllers, especially high-touch areas like buttons and grips. To disinfect, wipe the controller and allow the surface to remain visibly wet for 4 minutes.

Why are my remote control buttons not working?

If your remote control buttons aren't working, it could be due to worn-out batteries, dirt or debris blocking the contacts, or internal damage from spills or corrosion. Start by replacing the batteries. Next, clean around the buttons with a disinfecting wipe, soft cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol. If that doesn't solve the problem, the internal contacts might be damaged, and you may need to consider professional repair or replacement.

How do you disinfect and sanitize electronics like TV remotes and gaming controllers?

Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting electronics. To disinfect and sanitize your TV remotes and video game controllers, start by removing any batteries or unplugging the device. Use a Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipe or a soft cloth lightly dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean, making sure to carefully wipe around buttons and edges without letting moisture seep inside.