Theo Nash
Nintendo Switch users have been warned against using alcohol-based products to clean their consoles, with some reporting that alcohol has caused their consoles to become discoloured or sticky. Nintendo recommends using 70% isopropyl alcohol or less to clean electronic devices. However, some users have reported that using 91% isopropyl or rubbing alcohol has not caused any issues. To avoid potential damage, it is recommended to use a damp cloth with water or a non-alcohol-based cleaner to clean the Nintendo Switch screen and other plastic parts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Alcohol | Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol |
| Concentration | 70% or less |
| Application | Apply to a cotton swab or cloth, not directly to the screen. Gently wipe the screen and allow the alcohol to evaporate |
| Warnings | May damage plastic parts, decals, stickers, protective layers, and rubber. Do not use on printed designs as the ink may come off |
| Alternatives | Microfiber cloth with water, non-alcohol-based cleaners, disinfectant wipes, diluted bleach solution |
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What You'll Learn
Nintendo recommends using 70% isopropyl alcohol or less
Nintendo has specific guidelines for cleaning the Nintendo Switch screen. According to the official website, Nintendo recommends using a 70% isopropyl alcohol-based disinfectant or less to clean the Nintendo Switch console, Joy-Con controllers, and accessories.
It is important to note that while isopropyl alcohol can be effective for cleaning electronics, it should not be used on screens. Screens have a protective coating that alcohol can strip away. Instead, a microfiber cloth and water are recommended for cleaning the screen. The cloth should be lightly dampened with water, and any excess water should be wrung out to avoid dripping on the device.
Additionally, it is advised to avoid using alcohol-based products on plastic parts, as they may cause the plastic to fade in colour or deform. This includes the Joy-Con controllers, which have been reported to be damaged by high concentrations of isopropyl alcohol, such as 91%.
For the Nintendo Switch, it is recommended to follow Nintendo's guidelines and use 70% isopropyl alcohol or less. This concentration has been found to effectively disinfect while also considering the safety of the device's materials. It is crucial to prioritize material preservation over strong disinfectant capabilities to avoid damaging your device.
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Use alcohol on metal parts, edge connectors and flux residue
While it is generally advised to avoid using alcohol-based products to clean your Nintendo Switch, as they may cause the plastic parts to fade in colour or deform, some people use alcohol to clean metal parts, edge connectors, and flux residue.
If you are looking to clean metal parts, edge connectors, or flux residue with alcohol, it is important to note that pure alcohol is too expensive and explosive for this purpose. Instead, you can use an alcohol-based cleaner, such as isopropyl alcohol, which is safe and effective for cleaning electronics. These alcohol-based cleaners typically contain a small amount of water, which helps to evaporate and minimize any potential rust or oxidation.
When cleaning edge connectors, it is important to use a substance that evaporates quickly and does not leave behind any residue. While contact cleaners are an option, they often contain additives that may leave a lubricating or corrosion-inhibiting residue, which can attract dust and dirt. Therefore, alcohol is considered a better option for cleaning edge connectors, as it evaporates quickly and leaves no residue.
For flux residue removal, a lint-free poly-cellulose wiper can be placed over the repair area to absorb the flux residues. The area can then be sprayed with an alcohol-based cleaner and scrubbed if needed.
It is important to note that, while alcohol can be used on metal parts, edge connectors, and flux residue, it should be avoided on plastic parts, decals, stickers, protective layers, and rubber components of your Nintendo Switch to prevent damage.
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Don't use alcohol on plastic parts or screens
Nintendo Switch users have been advised against using alcohol-based products to clean their consoles. While some users have reported using rubbing alcohol to clean their devices without any issues, Nintendo has specifically requested that customers avoid using alcohol as it may cause the plastic parts to fade in colour or deform.
It is important to note that alcohol can damage certain materials, including plastics. In the context of the Nintendo Switch, users have reported that using alcohol on the console's plastic screen is not advisable. This is because alcohol can damage or dull certain types of plastic. For example, Windex, a glass cleaner, should not be used on plastic as it contains ammonia, which can be harmful to plastic surfaces.
Similarly, isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol or IPA, is not recommended for cleaning plastic screens. While it is commonly used to clean circuit boards and other electronic components due to its effectiveness in removing flux and adhesives, it is not suitable for all plastic parts. Isopropyl alcohol can damage anti-glare coatings and other plastic components, such as speakers.
Additionally, high-concentration isopropyl alcohol solutions, such as 91% or 99% mixtures, should be avoided for cleaning plastic screens. These solutions are intended for use on circuit boards and other non-plastic electronic components. Lower concentrations of isopropyl alcohol, such as 70%, may be safer for cleaning plastic surfaces, but even then, it is important to exercise caution to avoid potential damage.
Instead of using alcohol, it is recommended to clean the Nintendo Switch screen and other plastic parts with a damp microfiber cloth. This method effectively removes dirt and grime without risking any damage to the plastic components. It is important to ensure that the cloth is only slightly damp and not dripping wet to avoid any liquid seeping into the device and causing potential electrical issues.
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Use a damp cloth with water to clean the Nintendo Switch
Nintendo has issued advice against using alcohol-based products to clean the Switch, as they may cause the plastic parts to fade in colour or deform. In fact, Nintendo recommends using a damp cloth with water to clean the Nintendo Switch.
Firstly, turn off your Switch and place it on a clean table. Then, dampen a soft, microfiber cloth with a small amount of water. Make sure the cloth is not dripping wet, and wring out most of the water. You can also use a pre-moistened lens cloth or the cloths used to clean eyeglasses.
Next, gently wipe down the screen with the damp cloth using long strokes. Do not use circular motions, as this can spread dirt across the screen. You can also use a dry toothbrush to clean around the buttons and joysticks.
Finally, apply a dry cleaning cloth to the screen and controllers, removing any leftover moisture. Reattach the controllers, and your Switch is good to go!
It is important to note that you should never use any liquid other than water to clean your screen, as the Switch is not designed to handle abrasive cleaners.
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Isopropyl alcohol is great for cleaning circuit boards
Nintendo Switch users have been advised against using alcohol-based products to clean the console and its peripherals. This is because alcohol can damage plastic parts, causing them to fade in colour or deform. However, some users have reported using isopropyl alcohol to clean their Nintendo Switch consoles, particularly the circuit boards.
Isopropyl alcohol mixes with water and then evaporates with it, making it ideal for cleaning up liquid spills on circuit boards. It is important to note that "rubbing alcohol" does not refer to a specific grade and may even be a different type of alcohol, such as ethanol. It could also contain other ingredients such as denaturants, fragrances, and colorants, which are potential contaminants. Therefore, it is recommended to use isopropyl alcohol that meets the ASTM D770 standard specification published by ASTM International.
When using isopropyl alcohol to clean circuit boards, it is essential to take precautions to avoid accidents. The work area must be well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of vapors, as alcohol vapors may combust and are hazardous to breathe. High-percentage isopropyl alcohol can also draw protective oils from the skin, leading to itching, dryness, and skin rashes with prolonged exposure. It is recommended to handle isopropyl alcohol with gloves made of solvent-resistant materials and to use goggles or a face shield to protect the eyes.
Some users have reported that using isopropyl alcohol to clean their PCBs leaves the boards sticky and dull-looking. This could be because the alcohol removes a varnish or lacquer coating on the PCB. To avoid this issue, it is recommended to rinse the PCB with distilled water after cleaning it with isopropyl alcohol and to continue scrubbing as you rinse. Adding water to isopropyl alcohol dilutes its effectiveness in dissolving the flux.
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Frequently asked questions
Nintendo recommends using 70% isopropyl alcohol or less. However, some users have reported that using any alcohol on the plastic screen can damage it. It is recommended to use a damp cloth with water instead.
Alcohol is a solvent and can dissolve paints, thin plastics, oils, and coatings. It may cause the plastic parts to fade in colour or deform.
You can use a damp, soft, lint-free cloth with water to clean your Nintendo Switch screen. You can also use a non-alcohol-based cleaner specifically made for screens/displays, such as "Screen Mom" available on Amazon.
You can use a disinfectant with 70% isopropyl alcohol or 75% ethyl alcohol to gently wipe the non-screen parts of your Nintendo Switch.
![McKesson Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 70% [1 Count] USP First Aid Antiseptic, 32 oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61lYiXl9g9L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
![McKesson Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 70% [12 Count] USP First Aid Antiseptic, 16 oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/614SGew9G8L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
