The Nintendo Switch goes everywhere: the dock, your hands, the couch, the car and the backpack. That means a smudgy screen and grimy Joy-Con controllers. Here's how to clean every part safely, whether you have the original Switch, the OLED model or a Switch 2.
What You'll Need
- A microfiber cloth
- A cleaner made for screens and electronics
- Cotton swabs
- A soft, dry brush
Step 1: Power Off and Unplug
Hold the power button and turn the console off completely, not just into sleep mode. Take it out of the dock and unplug any cables and accessories.
Step 2: Clean the Screen
Wipe the screen with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. For fingerprints, lightly mist the cloth with screen cleaner, wipe gently and buff dry. Never spray the console directly. Nintendo advises against pouring liquid onto its products.
Switch 2 owners: the screen comes with a factory-installed protective film. Nintendo says not to remove it, because it helps hold the glass together if the screen breaks. Clean it gently like any other screen.
Step 3: Clean the Joy-Con Controllers
Slide or detach the Joy-Con controllers from the console. Wipe each one with a lightly misted cloth, then use a damp cotton swab around the buttons and the base of each thumbstick.
Step 4: Clean the Rails and Connectors
Use a dry, soft brush along the rails and connectors where the Joy-Con controllers attach. Dust here can affect the connection. Keep liquid away from the metal contacts.
Step 5: Clean the Back, Kickstand and Vents
Wipe the back of the console and the kickstand. Use a dry brush on the vents and the game card slot, gently, without pushing anything inside.
Step 6: Wipe the Dock
Unplug the dock and wipe it with a dry cloth. Use a dry brush to remove dust from the slot where the console sits.
Step 7: Let It Dry
Make sure everything is completely dry before you reattach the controllers, dock the console or turn it on.
What About Disinfecting?
Use a solution without alcohol, ammonia or hydrogen peroxide. Solution with gentle antimicrobial properties is best. Apply it to the cloth, not the device, and let everything dry fully before use.
Protect Your Screen
- Use a carrying case when you travel.
- Consider a screen protector for scratch protection.
- Wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth before putting it in its case, since trapped grit can scratch.
Take It Anywhere
A pocket-size cleaner and cloth fit right in your Switch case. Shop gaming cleaning kits → https://tech2clean.com/pages/shop