So, to keep your hands clean while gaming, you must ensure your controller is free of dirt and dust particles. Here, we’ll guide you on exactly how to clean a PS4 controller with ease.
What You Need to Clean a PS4 Controller
To clean your PS4 controller, you’ll need the following items:
A screwdriver A can of compressed air A microfiber cloth Isopropyl alcohol
How to Clean a PS4 Controller’s Chassis
If you want to keep the exterior of your PS4 controller clean, here are some steps to follow:
Start by using the compressed air to blow away any dust or dirt accumulated on the controller’s surface. Use a needle, toothpick, or any other sharp object to remove any debris stacked in the tiny holes of the controller, especially on the speakers. Next, take your cotton swab (or a smooth piece of cloth) and dip it in isopropyl alcohol. Gently swirl it around all the nooks and crannies on the controller’s surface while being careful not to press too hard. You have to remove any built-up residue without damaging the controller. If there are any stubborn marks or stains, the isopropyl alcohol will be able to remove them. Use the lint-free cloth to wipe away any excess alcohol. The outside of your PS4 controller should now be nice and clean.
Cleaning the Joysticks and Buttons
Like the other parts of the controller, the most effective way to clean the joysticks and buttons is to use rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. You can follow these steps to clean them.
First, pop off the joysticks and pull off the cradles holding the buttons to remove them. Now, dip the cotton swab or clean cloth in the alcohol and gently rub it over the buttons. Move the cotton swab around frequently to avoid spreading dirt and grime everywhere. Next, using the cloth, clean the sockets of the buttons thoroughly, as shown below. Once you’re finished, let the controller joysticks and buttons dry before inserting them into the controller again.
How to Clean the Inside of a PS4 Controller
Cleaning the inside of your PS4 controller is a relatively simple task that only takes a few minutes to complete. The first step is to disassemble the PS4 controller.
How to Open a PS4 Controller to Clean It
You can follow the five steps below to get inside a PS4 controller to clean it.
You will first start by unplugging the controller from your console. Next, remove the battery from the controller. The battery is shown below. We shall then use a screwdriver to remove the screws in the rear cover of the PS4 controller, as shown in the picture below. As you pull the screws, do not try to force them as it can permanently damage the threads holding them. Once the screws are removed, you can pinch one of the controller’s handles to introduce an opening, then slide it up. You can then repeat this step in the second handle. You can then carefully dislodge the front and rear covers and the motherboard. Don’t tilt the front cover downwards when removing the motherboard assembly, as the covers and buttons can fall out. The inside of the PS4 controller will look like the one shown below.
Having looked at the steps to disassemble the controller, let’s now look at the steps to clean each part.
Cleaning the Front and Rear Covers of the PS4 Controller
The front and rear covers of the PS4 controller are prone to collecting fingerprints and other smudges. Luckily, it is relatively easy to clean them if you follow the steps below.
Dampen the cloth with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol and gently wipe down the front cover. Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these could damage the controller. You can repeat the same process with the rear cover. After cleaning, dry the covers with a clean cloth.
Next, you can proceed to clean the PS4 controller’s motherboard. You should be extremely careful with this part, as you can easily damage it.
Cleaning the Motherboard of the PS4 Controller
The motherboard is the most critical part of the PS4 controller. It is responsible for processing all the information from the buttons and joystick and sending it to the PS4 console. To clean the motherboard, you can follow these steps:
First, carefully remove the circuit board from the controller housing. Once the circuit board is exposed, use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust or dirt. To remove stubborn stains, you can dip a soft cloth in rubbing alcohol and use it to remove them, as shown below gently. Finally, return it to the controller housing, ready to be reassembled again. Be sure to be careful not to disconnect any wires in the process.
How to Reassemble the PS4 Controller
Once you have finished cleaning the inside and outside, the next step is reassembling the controller. To do this, follow the steps below:
Insert the battery pack into the back of the controller (see our guide on how to replace a PS4 controller battery). Make sure that it is properly seated and secure. Line up the two halves of the controller so that they are facing the correct way. The triggers should be outside, and the joysticks should be in the center. Attach the triggers to the controller using the screws. Next, attach the buttons. Start with the face buttons (X, O, Triangle, Square), then move on to the shoulder buttons (L1, L2, R1, R2). Finally, attach the joysticks. Be sure to line them up correctly so that they are flush with the controller’s surface. Once the pieces are in place, you can screw in the back panel to secure everything.
Essential Tips When Cleaning a PS4 Controller
Knowing what you are doing when cleaning a PS4 controller is vital because there are many small and delicate parts. Here are some tips:
Do not use water on the controller as it can damage the electronics. Instead, use a lint-free cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol. Gently scrub any stubborn dirt or grime with a toothbrush dipped in rubbing alcohol. Be sure to dry the controller thoroughly before using it again. Do not scrub too aggressively as this can damage the controller. If you have any stubborn dirt or grime, gently scrub with a toothbrush dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Enjoy a Clean PS4 Controller
A clean PS4 controller can help improve your gameplay by ensuring that the buttons and sticks are responsive. By following the above steps, you will have a clean PS4 controller that you can be proud of. Just remember to clean it regularly to maintain it in tip-top condition.
A build-up of dirt and grime can make the controller less responsive, making it more difficult to control the game. Dirt and dust can cause wear and tear on the buttons and joystick, eventually leading to faulty ones. Using a clean controller just feels nicer! It’s more pleasant to hold and use a controller free from dirt and grease.
