Cleaning PS5 Controller: Dos and Don’ts Every PS5 Owner Should Be Aware Of

Cleaning the PS5 controller is a task that every PS5 owner needs to undertake periodically.

However, it’s not as straightforward as one might think. Certain cleaning methods might damage your controller, while some cleaning agents may be less effective than others.

In this article, I will reveal important methods to safely clean your PS5 controller while warning you about harmful practices you should avoid. So, let’s get started with ensuring gaming sessions remain uninterrupted –

PS5 Controller Components You Need to Clean

Before I dive into the dos and don’ts of cleaning the PS5 controller, it is essential to understand its components and identify the parts that might need special attention. The PS5 controller consists of:

The outer shell
The buttons (Options, Create, D-pad, and Action buttons)
Thumbsticks and touchpad
Triggers and bumpers
The built-in microphone
The USB-C port

Note – Over time, your PS5 controller may accumulate dirt, dust, and grime, especially around the buttons, thumbsticks, and triggers.

How to Clean PS5 Controller Buttons

To thoroughly clean your PS5 controller buttons, follow these steps:

Power off and disconnect the controller: Ensure the controller is turned off and disconnected from the PS5 console or any charging source.
Grab a soft, dry toothbrush or cotton swabs: A toothbrush with soft nylon bristles or cotton swabs works best for cleaning around and on the buttons without causing damage.
Gently scrub around the button edges: Brush or swab around the edges of each button, paying attention to any dirt or debris build-up. Apply gentle pressure while scrubbing to avoid damaging the buttons or contact points.
Clean the button surface: Gently scrub the surface of each button with the toothbrush or cotton swab to remove dirt and any residue.
Wipe the buttons with a slightly damp microfiber cloth. After scrubbing, use a damp cloth to wipe the buttons and their immediate surrounding areas. Ensure the cloth is not overly wet, as moisture could seep into the controller and damage internal components.
Dry the controller: Allow your controller to air-dry completely before reconnecting or powering it back on.

Although these steps work exceptionally well, you should check out the dos and Don’ts of your PS5 controller from below.

The Do’s of Cleaning Your PS5 Controller

Adhering to these best practices will ensure your PS5 controller remains in top condition:

Power off and disconnect the controller: Before cleaning, ensure the controller is turned off and disconnected from the console or any charging source.
Use a soft, microfiber cloth: Gently wipe the controller’s surface to remove dust and debris.
Clean around buttons and thumbsticks: Use a soft toothbrush or a dry cotton swab to clean around buttons, thumbsticks, and triggers. This helps remove buildup without damaging the components.
Clean charging ports: Use a dry cotton swab or a soft brush to clean the charging ports of any dust buildup.
Clean the controller’s shell: Wipe the controller’s shell with a slightly damp microfiber cloth without allowing moisture to seep into internal components.
Dry the controller: After cleaning, give it ample time to dry completely before powering it back on. Ideally, let it air-dry in a ventilated space.

The Don’ts of Cleaning Your PS5 Controller

Avoid these practices to prevent damaging your controller:

Don’t use water or harsh chemicals: Moisture can seep into the controller’s internal components, causing damage or malfunctions.
Don’t disassemble the controller: Tampering with the internal components may void the warranty and damage delicate parts.
Don’t force dirt or debris out: Applying too much pressure, whether with a toothbrush or a cotton swab, can potentially damage buttons, triggers, or thumbsticks.
Don’t clean while connected: Cleaning your controller while connected to the console or powered on poses a risk of electrical shock and damage.
Don’t use abrasive materials: Avoid using rough materials or abrasive cleaners that could scratch or damage the controller’s surface.

FAQs on Cleaning a PS5 Controller

Q – How often should I clean my controller?

Answer – Cleaning your controller every 2-4 weeks is a good practice. However, you may need to clean it more frequently if it’s visibly dirty or experiencing performance issues.

Q – Can I use compressed air to clean my controller?

Answer – While compressed air can dislodge dust from hard-to-reach areas, use it cautiously. Excessive air pressure may damage components.

Q – What should I do if I accidentally get water inside the controller?

Answer – Immediately turn off the controller, disconnect it, and let it completely dry for 48 hours in a dry, ventilated spot.