How to Safely Clean Remotes: A Simple Guide to Germ-Free Control
TV Remotes and AC Remotes are among the most frequently touched devices in any home. Yet, they're often the most neglected when it comes to regular cleaning. Think about it—greasy fingers after a snack, dust from the air, and occasional spills can all contribute to a buildup of grime and bacteria on your remote controls. Since universal remotes are used to control multiple appliances, they are especially prone to contamination. Thankfully, cleaning remotes is easy if you follow the right steps.
In this article, we’ll guide you through safe and effective ways to clean your TV Remotes, AC Remotes, and other universal remotes without damaging them. And if you're looking to upgrade or replace your current ones, we’ll also show you where to shop for remotes online at the end.
Why Cleaning Remotes Is Important
Remotes can be breeding grounds for bacteria. In fact, several studies have found that remote controls can carry more germs than your toilet seat. This is because they’re touched multiple times a day by multiple people, rarely cleaned, and often dropped or left in various spots around the house. If you want a hygienic living space, it’s crucial to clean your remotes regularly.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you start cleaning your TV or AC Remote, gather the following supplies:
Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
Microfiber cloth or soft lint-free cloth
Cotton swabs
Toothpicks (for deeper crevices)
Compressed air (optional)
A small bowl (for dipping cotton swabs)
Avoid using water, harsh cleaning agents, or soaking the remote, as this can damage internal circuitry.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Remotes
1. Remove the Batteries
Start by taking the batteries out of your remote. This prevents any electrical shorting and ensures you can clean the battery compartment as well.
2. Tap Out Loose Debris
Hold the remote upside down and gently tap it against your palm to dislodge any loose debris like crumbs or dust.
3. Use Compressed Air or Toothpicks
Spray compressed air around the buttons to get rid of dust in hard-to-reach areas. Alternatively, use a toothpick gently to remove grime from crevices.
4. Wipe with Alcohol
Dip a microfiber cloth or cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol. Gently wipe the surface of the remote, paying close attention to the buttons and edges. Alcohol evaporates quickly and won't harm electronics, making it ideal for this task.
5. Clean the Battery Compartment
Use a dry cloth or slightly alcohol-dampened swab to clean the battery compartment. Make sure it’s completely dry before reinserting batteries.
6. Let It Dry
Leave the remote in a dry area for at least 15–20 minutes before putting the batteries back in and using it again.
How Often Should You Clean Remotes?
For best results, clean your remotes at least once every two weeks. If you have children or pets, or if you’re recovering from an illness, you may want to increase the frequency. Universal remotes that control multiple appliances should be cleaned more often due to higher usage.
Final Thoughts
Clean remotes aren't just about hygiene—they also help extend the life of your device. Dirt and grime can get into the buttons and cause them to stick or stop working. Whether it’s TV Remotes, AC Remotes, or universal remotes, regular care keeps them working like new.
And if your current remote is worn out or not functioning properly, why not explore your options? LRIPL offers a wide range of reliable and high-quality TV Remotes and AC Remotes that are compatible with major brands. Whether you're replacing an old one or upgrading to a universal remote, you can easily find the perfect fit.
Explore LRIPL’s collection of remotes online today and bring home the comfort of seamless control with the added assurance of quality and durability.
