How to Clean a Remote Control: Remove Grime, Bacteria, and Sticky Buttons

Remote controls are among the most touched — and least cleaned — objects in any home. Studies have found remote controls harbor more bacteria than toilet seats. Sticky buttons, grime-filled crevices, and fingerprint-covered surfaces are all fixable with a few minutes of cleaning. Here's how to do it properly.

What You'll Need

MED PRIDE Sterile Alcohol Prep Pads, 70% Isopropyl (200 Count) — the most effective tool for disinfecting and cleaning remote controls; individually wrapped for convenience
Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (24-pack) — for wiping and drying
Cotton swabs (Q-tips)
Toothpick or soft brush (for button crevices)
Mild dish soap and warm water (for deep cleaning)

How Often Should You Clean Your Remote?

Most people never clean their remote controls — but they should. Aim for:

Weekly: Quick wipe with an alcohol prep pad
Monthly: Full deep clean including button crevices
Immediately: After illness in the household — remotes are a major vector for spreading germs

Step 1: Remove the Batteries

Always remove the batteries before cleaning. This prevents any risk of electrical damage if moisture gets inside, and allows you to clean the battery compartment separately.

Step 2: Shake Out Loose Debris

Turn the remote upside down and tap it firmly against your palm to dislodge crumbs, dust, and debris from between the buttons. You may be surprised how much falls out.

Step 3: Wipe with Alcohol Prep Pad

Open a MED PRIDE Alcohol Prep Pad and wipe the entire surface of the remote — front, back, and sides. The 70% isopropyl alcohol disinfects effectively and evaporates quickly without leaving residue. Pay extra attention to the most-touched areas: the power button, volume buttons, and number pad.

Step 4: Clean Button Crevices

Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and run it around the edges of each button. The swab reaches into the gaps where grime accumulates. Use a toothpick wrapped in a small piece of cloth to dislodge any stubborn debris from tight crevices — never use a sharp metal object that could scratch the plastic.

Step 5: Clean Sticky Buttons

Sticky buttons are caused by spilled drinks or accumulated skin oils. Dampen a cotton swab with alcohol and press it firmly around and under the sticky button, working the alcohol into the gap. Press the button repeatedly while cleaning to work the alcohol into the mechanism. Allow to dry completely before replacing batteries.

Step 6: Clean the Battery Compartment

Wipe the inside of the battery compartment with a dry microfiber cloth. If there's corrosion (white or greenish residue from old batteries), dab with a cotton swab lightly moistened with white vinegar, let sit 1 minute, then wipe clean and dry thoroughly.

Step 7: Replace Batteries and Test

Once completely dry (usually 2–3 minutes after alcohol cleaning), replace the batteries and test all buttons to ensure everything works correctly.

Deep Cleaning a Very Dirty Remote

For remotes that haven't been cleaned in years:

Remove batteries
If the remote can be disassembled (check for screws under the battery cover), open it carefully
Clean the circuit board with a dry brush only — never use liquid on the circuit board
Clean the rubber button pad with a damp cloth and mild soap; rinse and dry completely
Clean the plastic shell with alcohol prep pads
Reassemble only when completely dry

Pro Tips

The MED PRIDE alcohol pads are individually wrapped — keep a pack in your living room for quick weekly wipe-downs
Never submerge a remote in water or spray liquid directly onto it
If a button stops working after cleaning, it may have gotten too wet — leave the remote in a warm, dry place for 24 hours before testing again
Consider a silicone remote cover to keep your remote cleaner between cleanings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hand sanitizer to clean a remote control?

Hand sanitizer (which is typically 60–70% alcohol) can work in a pinch, but it often contains moisturizers and other additives that can leave a sticky residue. Dedicated alcohol prep pads like MED PRIDE are cleaner and more effective.

Why are my remote control buttons sticky?

Sticky buttons are caused by spilled sugary drinks, accumulated skin oils, or degraded rubber. Clean with alcohol on a cotton swab, working it into the gaps around each button. For severely degraded rubber buttons, the remote may need replacement.

How do I disinfect a remote control during illness?

Wipe thoroughly with a 70% isopropyl alcohol prep pad, covering all surfaces. Allow to air dry completely. Repeat daily during illness. This kills most bacteria and viruses on the surface within seconds.

Back to blog