Skip to main content

How to clean your Nintendo Switch console and controllers

Illustration of person playing clean Nintendo Switch

Have you ever thought about how much dirt, grime, and Cheeto dust your Nintendo Switch® comes into contact with—not to mention germs? Yuck. 

Keeping your Nintendo Switch clean isn't just about maintaining its sleek look. It's a vital part of ensuring the longevity and functionality of your beloved gaming console. 

Our experts at uBreakiFix® by Asurion have seen it all—including devices needing spring cleaning—and can fix it all. Here’s our guide to cleaning your Nintendo Switch and your Joy-Cons™. 

The importance of maintaining your Nintendo Switch

Regular cleaning of your Nintendo Switch prevents the build-up of dust and grime, which can affect the performance and longevity of the console and its Joy-Cons. 

How to clean your console

Cleaning your Nintendo Switch requires careful attention to avoid damaging sensitive components. Always start by turning off your Nintendo Switch and unplugging it from any power source.

  • Gently wipe the screen and exterior of the console with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and smudges. 
  • To clean around the buttons, use a cotton swab slightly dampened with an alcohol solution (50% isopropyl alcohol and 50% water). Avoid using excessive moisture.

How to clean your Joy-Cons

Properly cleaning your Joy-Cons can improve their functionality and remove germs that might have hitchhiked over from your fingers.  

Power off your Switch, then detach the Joy-Cons from the main console for easier cleaning. Use the same rules for the main console on your controllers: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe down the Joy-Cons and a cotton swab for detailed cleaning around the analog sticks. If you have canned air handy, you can use it to blow out any debris from under the buttons or analog sticks.

Remember to give your Joy-Cons time to dry before re-attaching them to the console.

*The Asurion® trademarks and logos are the property of Asurion, LLC. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Asurion is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any of the respective owners of the other trademarks appearing herein.*

Nintendo
Home Tech
  • SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Keep your head in the game. We’ll handle the repairs.

If your console breaks down, our experts have your back. Make an appointment at your nearest store now.

Schedule a repair