How to properly clean remote controls - which are amongst the dirtiest objects we have in the house

When discussing remote controls, our immediate association is with the one used to control the television, typically while comfortably seated on the sofa or bed. However, in today's homes, a multitude of devices are managed with the assistance of remote controls. These include stereo systems, air conditioning and air purification units, DVD or Blu-ray players, and a myriad of other items. While many devices are now "smart" and linked to mobile apps via the internet, the need for a dedicated remote control for specific appliances remains.

As a result, some remote controls are used on a daily basis, picking up the natural oils from our hands, along with dust, crumbs, or other debris. This "mixture" leads to remotes becoming the least hygienic items we have in the home. However, being electronic devices, thorough washing (with water) is not an option. So, how can you clean them? It's actually quite simple!

What you should have on hand to clean remote controls

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To clean and sanitize a remote, here's what you need:

• liquid dish soap or hand soap;
• alternatively: vinegar, 60 or 70% alcohol, or sanitizing wipes;
• microfiber cloth or lint-free cloth;
• a toothpick or, alternatively, a can of compressed air, or a cotton swab.

Cleaning remote controls is quick: it really takes no more than ten minutes at most!

How to clean remote controls at home

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Start by removing the batteries: even though we won't be using a lot of water, there's always the risk that some moisture or cleaning products could get into the battery compartment.

If there's a lot of dirt, washing is necessary, but always avoid using an excessive amount water.

• Take a small bowl and fill it with lukewarm water and a drop of liquid dish soap, mixing well.
• Now, take your clean, soft cloth, dip one end into the mixture, and wring it out thoroughly, leaving it damp and not dripping with water.
• Rub the cloth all over the remote control, and when you're in between the buttons, use your nails under the cloth to reach into the crevices. If it's still too difficult, use the tip of the toothpick to remove the dirt, or slightly dampen the tip of the cotton swab.

If there isn't a lot of dirt, you can limit yourself to sanitizing, a step that is recommended also for after the cleaning just described above.

• (If you haven't already cleaned) Remove the bulk of the dirt with the help of compressed air. It's better than using brushes, but those work fine too, if needed.
• In a bowl, mix one part vinegar and two parts water, or dilute some alcohol in water.
• Again, dip one end of the cloth, wringing it out well. Then, wipe the remote control as seen in the washing process above.
• In this case as well, a toothpick will help in removing dirt.

Alternatively, you can use sanitizing wipes or those used for cleaning phone or computer screens, which always contain some alcohol.

Dry off thoroughly with a dry cloth, and you're done. Put the batteries back in, and the remote control will be clean and fully functional again!