Besides annoying when it doesn’t respond to your commands, a dirty remote can also be hazardous. Batteries can corrode, and dust can block connections. Cleaning your remote every month or after a family member gets sick to avoid the spread of germs is highly recommended.
Clean the Outside
It can be frustrating to have to interrupt your relaxation time on the couch to adjust the TV settings only to discover that the remote is dirty, sticky, or not functioning correctly. To avoid this, it is essential to regularly clean and disinfect your TV remote controls to prevent dust buildup and battery corrosion. Your TV remote is a bastion of germs and is 20 times dirtier than toilet seats (via Sofa and Carpet). So it’s worth giving it a good, deep clean occasionally. Before getting started, ensure the remote is unplugged, and the batteries are removed. Also, if you use a damp cloth to clean, ensure the fabric isn’t soaking wet, as moisture can short out circuits. Instead, a dampened cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol will do the trick.samsungparts.com
Clean the Buttons
Like your keyboard or smartphone, your remote is constantly touched by dirty fingers and mitts. And if left unattended, those crumbs, grit, dust, and pesky stickiness can damage the remote or cause it to stop working.
To clean the buttons, use a damp microfiber cloth or cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol will also work) and wipe each button surface around each button. If your remote is especially dirty or sticky, you may need a more in-depth cleaning. This includes removing the batteries, the case and wiping down the inside components. After each step, let the small dry entirely before putting it back together. This prevents moisture from damaging the circuit board and ensures that all buttons are seated correctly in their spots.
Clean the Battery Compartment
Regularly cleaning and sanitizing your remote control is essential, primarily since it’s frequently handled by many people, often with dirty fingers. With the current situation surrounding COVID-19, it’s crucial to follow the Centers for Disease Control’s recommendation of daily cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, including your remote control. To clean the battery compartment, remove the batteries and mix one part water with two parts of white vinegar. Rub the compartment with a cotton swab dipped in the solution, then dry it with a lint-free cloth and let it air dry before inserting new batteries. This step is essential if you’ve experienced battery corrosion, as it can cause the remote to malfunction.
Clean the Electronics
As mentioned above, germs and bacteria can cling to the rubber pads and circuit boards that house the buttons on your TV remote. To clean this area, you’ll need the ideal cleaning solution that can remove dirt and disinfect. You’ll want to use rubbing alcohol or any commercial contact cleaners at electronic stores. Start by removing the batteries, then wipe the exterior of your remote with a lint-free cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. It’s important to remember not to get the battery compartment or circuit board too wet when you’re wiping it down. This could cause the batteries to corrode or the circuits to malfunction. So, a little water won’t hurt, but it’s best always to keep your remote clean and dry.
