To clean Nintendo Switch Lite buttons, you can use common household items like high-concentration alcohol, toothpicks, a soft brush, cotton swabs, and potentially a magic eraser or a water/vinegar mixture for yellowing.
Cleaning Switch Lite buttons can revitalize their appearance and feel, removing grime and addressing discoloration. The method depends on what you are trying to clean – general dirt or stubborn yellowing.
Cleaning Face Buttons and General Grime
For general cleaning of the face buttons, removing dirt and buildup around the edges, you will need the following:
- 90% Alcohol: Used as a cleaning agent that evaporates quickly.
- Toothpicks: Helpful for dislodging debris stuck in crevices.
- Soft Fine Toothbrush: Effective for scrubbing surface dirt gently.
- Cotton Swabs: Ideal for applying alcohol and wiping surfaces.
Here's a simple approach:
- Slightly dampen a cotton swab or soft toothbrush with 90% alcohol. Ensure it's not soaking wet to avoid liquid damage.
- Gently rub the surfaces of the face buttons and the areas around them.
- Use a toothpick carefully to pick out any visible dirt or grime lodged in the edges of the buttons or gaps in the casing.
- Use the soft toothbrush to gently scrub the button surfaces and edges.
- Wipe away residue with a clean cotton swab or a clean, dry part of the toothbrush.
- Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely before using the console.
Addressing Button Yellowing
Yellowing on buttons, often caused by oxidation or grime deeply embedded in the plastic, may require a different approach. The reference suggests two main options:
Option 1: Disassembly and Soaking (Advanced)
This method involves taking the Switch Lite apart to remove the buttons, which is an advanced process and carries the risk of damaging the device if not done correctly.
- Materials Needed:
- Hot water
- Vinegar
- Alcohol (type/concentration not specified for this method in the reference)
- Process: After carefully disassembling the console and removing the yellowed buttons, soak them in a mixture of hot water, vinegar, and alcohol.
Option 2: Cleaning Without Disassembly (Using Magic Eraser)
A less invasive method involves using a magic eraser, though caution is needed due to its abrasive nature.
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Materials Needed:
- Magic eraser
- Smallest amount of water
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Process: Lightly dampen a small piece of a magic eraser with the absolute minimum amount of water. Gently rub the yellowed areas on the buttons. Magic erasers work by using micro-abrasives, so use very little pressure to avoid damaging the button texture or finish.
Important Note: Disassembling electronics can void warranties and cause irreparable damage. The magic eraser method uses abrasion and should be tested in an inconspicuous area first. Always proceed with caution when cleaning electronic devices.
