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How to Clean and Disinfect Your TV Remote

The TV remote is one of the most prized possessions in the house, often by your side whenever you sit down to enjoy your favorite movie, TV show or sports action. That means you keep pressing its controls and tossing it, depending on who wants to watch what, occasionally chews on if you have little ones around, and who knows what else. It's a gnarly mess and a potential home to germs, allergens, and mold in addition to visible dust, dirt, and grime. It is important to learn how to clean and disinfect your TV remote control as a preventive measure against health risks.

ContentsHow Dirty Are TV Remotes?Cleaning and Disinfecting a TV RemoteWhat You'll NeedInstructions

How dirty are TV remotes?

Whether you are at home or in a hotel room, the TV remote control is one of the dirtiest objects. In fact, a study found that TV remotes are terribly dirty and can contain harmful bacteria, grime, sweat, and even feces in some cases.

How to Clean and Disinfect Your TV Remote

2. Turn the remote over and tap it against your palm or shake it to dislodge debris between the keys. You can use a canister of compressed air to blow out and shake off any stubborn material.

How to Clean and Disinfect Your TV Remote

3. Dip the cotton cloth in the rubbing alcohol and wipe gently to clean the outer shell. Do not spray directly on the device. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean hard-to-reach areas around and inside pimples. If you have more stubborn debris, you can dislodge it using a wooden toothpick or dry toothbrush to remove anything deep in the keys.

4. After thoroughly cleaning the remote, allow it to air dry and reinstall the batteries when dry.

How to Clean and Disinfect Your TV Remote

5. Remove your gloves and wash your hands and wrists thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds before using the TV remote again.

How to Clean and Disinfect Your TV Remote

With the tips above, we hope you now know how to clean and disinfect your TV remote while maintaining other recommended cleanliness habits. Don't forget to clean and disinfect your laptop as well.