Whether you have a standard Xbox Wireless Controller or an Elite Series 2, a regular clean keeps it comfortable to hold and the buttons feeling crisp. Here's how to do it safely.
What You'll Need
- A microfiber cloth
- A cleaner made for electronics
- Cotton swabs
- A soft, dry brush or handheld air pump
Step 1: Power Off and Remove the Batteries
Hold the Xbox button for about 6 seconds to turn off the controller, unplug any cable, and remove the AA batteries or rechargeable battery pack. Leave the battery cover off while you clean.
Step 2: Remove Elite Accessories
If you have an Elite Series 2, pop off the magnetic thumbsticks, D-pad and back paddles first. It's easier to clean them separately, and you won't knock them off and lose them.
Step 3: Wipe the Shell
Lightly mist your microfiber cloth with cleaner and wipe the grips, face and back with gentle swipes. Standard controllers have a plain plastic finish, but the Elite and some special editions have soft or textured coatings that can wear if you scrub.
Step 4: Clean Around the Buttons
Use a damp cotton swab around the A, B, X and Y buttons, the D-pad, the View, Menu and Share buttons, and the Xbox button.
Step 5: Clean the Bumpers, Triggers and Thumbsticks
Hold each trigger down to clean its sides, then wipe the bumpers. Tilt each thumbstick to the side and clean the base with a swab or brush, rotating as you go.
Step 6: Clean the Battery Compartment and Ports
Use a dry brush and or handheld air pump on the battery compartment, the USB-C port and the headset jack. Keep liquid away from the battery contacts.
Step 7: Dry and Reassemble
Let everything dry completely before you put the batteries back in and reattach any Elite parts.
What About Disinfecting?
Use a cleaner without alcohol, ammonia or peroxide, this will keep the coating from being harmed. Gentle dabs and swipes rather than scrubbing, especially on coated controllers. For everyday cleaning, a cleaner made for electronics is all you need.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Spraying cleaner directly on the controller
- Scrubbing coated or textured grips
- Using bleach or household sprays
- Putting batteries back in before the controller is dry
- Compressed air
Ready for the Next Session
Keep a cloth and cleaner next to your console for quick wipe-downs. Shop gaming cleaning kits → https://tech2clean.com/pages/shop