Many people do not realize the importance of cleaning the USB-C port. Over time, the accumulation of dirt and dust can damage the port and prevent charging cables from making a full connection to the ports as well as preventing data transfer between devices. Unfortunately, charging ports are incredibly susceptible to dust, dirt, and tiny particles that can scratch or bend the delicate electronics inside the port; the reason is not difficult to understand! If you constantly put your phone in your pocket or bag, this can push dust, lint, and loose dirt into the small opening.
Therefore, cleaning the USB-C port in a timely and regular manner is a fundamental task for those who own electronic devices such as a tablet, laptop, or phone with this small port. If you do not clean the USB-C port regularly, it may lead to difficulty in charging your device. So, to keep your devices running smoothly and safely, and avoid damaging them, you must clean the USB-C port periodically by following the steps below before the situation worsens.
How to Know If Your USB-C Port Needs Cleaning?
Before starting the cleaning steps, there are a number of annoying things that alert you to the need to clean the USB-C port. Whether your phone is not charging properly, or the device displays an error message for not recognizing your phone, most of the time these are signs that your port needs cleaning immediately. Here are the main signs indicating a dirty port:
First, the phone does not charge when connected to the charger
The first sign that you have a dirty USB-C port is poor charging performance or that your device does not charge when connected. The accumulation of dirt inside the port can deceive your device into thinking it’s connected, even when it’s not.
Second, data cannot be transferred through the port
One of the most common problems with USB-C ports on laptops and tablets is the bending of the delicate connections inside. Because these ports can connect to many different accessories, this creates many opportunities for dust and lint to accumulate. If you encounter data transfer issues or performance degradation, the USB-C port likely needs cleaning.
Third, no click sound when connecting to the port
If the USB-C port is clean, you should be able to insert the cable and hear a click when it’s in place. If you don’t hear a click, it may be due to trapped dirt inside. If this is the case, you may notice that the USB cable is not securely in place, or you may have trouble charging your phone. If so, it’s time to clean the port.
You may be interested: Types of USB cables and how to keep them from wearing out for life?
How to Clean the USB-C Port
Cleaning the USB-C port on your phone is easier than you think. Even if you don’t see a mass of lint coming out of your phone’s USB-C port, it’s time to clean this neglected area. So, here’s how to do it without damaging your device. Well, let’s start cleaning! Before you do anything, get a bright flashlight to clearly see the USB-C port on your phone. Because it’s simply hard to clean what you can’t see! Here are easy steps to safely clean the USB-C port:
1- Use Toothpicks: Use plastic or wooden toothpicks to remove stubborn dirt inside. Start gently and accurately using the tip of a toothpick to remove any stubborn residue from your phone. Be careful! Do not bend the connector inside the port.
2- Use Compressed Air: Everyone should have a can of compressed air. You can use it to clean your phone, laptop, keyboard, and any electronic devices in your home. Compressed air cans or even gently blowing air into the port can remove most of the dust and lint accumulated in your phone’s USB-C port. Just remember to air in short, intermittent bursts. Your phone’s USB-C port should be clean now.
Remember that you should clean the USB-C port regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust, lint, and other dirt that may lead to the destruction of your device. Be cautious about using alcohol or a toothbrush for this purpose, as they may leave plastic fibers in your phone. And do not use any pins or other metal pieces in any of your phone’s openings, as they will definitely scratch the connectors!
