How to clean the TV remote control

The TV remote control is a highly sought-after item in any household. It is used by every family member on a daily basis, sometimes even dropping it on the dusty carpet. Like all electrical devices, the remote control is susceptible to dust, dirt, moisture, and certain types of bacteria, which can infiltrate its interior and contaminate the contact elements. This contamination leads to oxidation and malfunctioning of the remote control. The question then becomes – what should be done? Many individuals, who are not particularly tech-savvy, opt to buy a new remote control. However, this may be a premature decision as, in most cases, a simple cleaning can restore its functionality. There is no need for advanced technical skills such as soldering or electrical wiring. Following a straightforward set of instructions is all that is required.

Poorly working remote control – causes

We can identify several of the most common reasons for poor device performance due to contamination:

• Battery leakage – oxidized contacts in the battery compartment.
• Oxidized contacts on the button board.
• Buttons getting loose due to dirty button openings on the device’s case.
• Dirty contacts on the button board.

Some of the aforementioned issues can often be resolved without disassembling the remote control (buttons sticking, batteries leaking), but this may not always solve the problem, as external cleaning without disassembly does not guarantee the elimination of the main cause of contamination. To determine if the remote control is dirty internally, it will be necessary to disassemble it.

PRO TIP. Prior to taking apart and cleaning the remote control, it is recommended to attempt replacing the batteries. In cases where the batteries have died, the signal strength diminishes, giving the perception of improper device functionality and unresponsive buttons.

For the purpose of cleaning contacts at home, it is recommended to use vodka or medical alcohol, which can be purchased at pharmacies. It is not advisable to use cologne or perfume, as they may contain impurities that can leave a residue after drying, which can hinder the conductivity of the contacts. Alternatively, many electrical stores offer various contact cleaning liquids for sale – simply ask the salesperson for assistance.

IMPORTANT. It is crucial not to clean the contacts with water as it can lead to oxidation and the formation of deposits that may be difficult to remove, even with specialized cleaning solutions. In such cases, purchasing a new device may be necessary.

To begin the cleaning process, apply the cleaning solution onto the button board or battery compartment contacts by moistening a cotton swab. Allow the liquid to sit for approximately 5-10 seconds before gently wiping the contacts using a cotton swab or cotton bud. Repeat this process as necessary, being cautious not to apply excessive pressure to prevent any scratching or damage to the board. Take care to ensure that no absorbent cotton fibers remain on the board, as they could potentially partially obstruct the contacts and diminish their conductivity. When cleaning the contacts within the battery compartment, follow the same method, but exercise extra caution due to the compartment’s smaller size. In certain remote controls, the contacts within the battery compartment can be detached, making the cleaning process easier. In such cases, remove the contacts, thoroughly wipe them, and then reinsert them back into place.

When it comes to cleaning, there’s no need to stress about drying time, as alcohol and vodka both evaporate rapidly. You can safely wash the buttons on your remote control in warm, soapy water. After rinsing, gently scrub any stubborn dirt with an old toothbrush, then allow them to dry on a piece of paper or towel.

To start, begin by taking out the batteries, as most likely there will be a single screw located in the battery compartment. Afterward, utilize a screwdriver to loosen the remaining screws. Following that, detach the main body of the remote control. If it is firmly sealed and difficult to open by hand, use a flat and sturdy object (like a flathead screwdriver, knife, or plastic card) to carefully lift the edge of the casing. Once the top part of the case is removed, you can then extract the buttons and remove the circuit board.

Typically, the boards are not attached by screws, but rather inserted into the grooves. If the board is secured with screws, it is not recommended to remove it right away, as the contact elements are located on top and can be wiped clean without having to unscrew the screws.

PRO TIP. Prior to disassembling the device, place a cloth or towel on the table surface to prevent the unscrewed screws and other parts from scattering and potentially getting lost.

Reassembly process

Here’s a simple step-by-step process to follow:

1. Begin by installing the buttons onto the board.
2. Next, carefully insert the board with the buttons into the case and securely close it.
3. Tighten all the screws to ensure everything is firmly in place.
4. Finally, insert the batteries to power the device.

Don’t worry about losing or mixing up the buttons when reassembling the remote control. Nowadays, buttons are typically a solid plate without removable parts, so they are easy to handle.

BACKGROUND. Many people hesitate to take apart a remote control because they fear losing or misplacing the buttons during reassembly. However, modern remote controls no longer have separate buttons. Instead, the buttons are part of a solid plate that cannot be removed or easily mixed up.

In order to accomplish this, we will need vodka or some other type of alcohol, a cotton swab, and a toothpick. First, remove the batteries from the remote control. When cleaning with the batteries still inserted, the remote control may still function and you might accidentally change some settings on your TV that will require a professional to fix. Next, use a toothpick to carefully clean all the crevices and openings around the buttons to remove any dirt or grime. After that, use the alcohol-soaked cotton swab to wipe away any visible dirt until there are no traces left.

TIP: Avoid using wet wipes or a cloth dampened with water for cleaning as moisture can seep inside and cause the circuit board’s contacts to oxidize.

Contamination Prevention

Keeping the remote control clean at all times may not be achievable, considering its frequent usage. However, you can significantly prolong its functionality without the need for disassembly by following a few simple steps. It is recommended to wipe it down with an alcohol solution, such as vodka, once every couple of weeks, or preferably once a week. Also, make sure to meticulously clean the button grooves using a toothpick to remove any accumulated dirt.

For those who prioritize pragmatism over aesthetics, there is a reliable option to preserve the remote control’s cleanliness for a longer period. Simply wrap the remote in film and secure the bottom with tape. This will lessen the frequency of cleaning, while still allowing the buttons to function perfectly. Although it may not be visually appealing, this method will ensure that the remote control remains clean and operational until the purchase of a new TV. Additionally, the film can be replaced whenever it becomes worn out or dirty.