In many homes, TV remotes and game controllers are frequently used. In fact, multiple people may hold and use these handheld devices many times throughout the day. In the process of handling them, germs from hands transfer to the various buttons, knobs and other surfaces.
Unfortunately, these devices are frequently overlooked with routine housecleaning. As a result, the germs build up, and they can transfer back to your hands each time you handle them. So, how do you disinfect TV remotes and game controllers and minimize the number of germs in your home?
Why Remotes And Controllers Are Hotspots For Germs
TV remotes and game controllers are frequently used and seldom cleaned. Some studies have even shown that remote controls have more bacteria on them than toilet seats. This includes the type of bacteria that is commonly found in feces. Yeast, streptococcus and mold are also problematic.
The idea of these germs transferring to your hands each time you use the TV remote or a game controller is alarming. These devices are handled thousands of times throughout the year in most homes, but they might not be cleaned at all during this time. In some homes, TV remotes and game controllers have never been cleaned.
Benefits Of Regular Cleaning And Disinfection
The many germs that commonly thrive on TV remotes and game controllers can cause illness. Everything from flu-like symptoms to nausea, vomiting and other gastrointestinal issues are possible.
In addition to potentially transferring these germs from the devices to your hands and then to your nose, mouth or eyes, you might also transfer them to various other surfaces in your home. As a result, you’ll have more germs throughout your home if you don’t clean and disinfect these devices regularly.
Steps To Keep Remotes And Controllers Germ-Free
Cleaning remotes and game controllers is fast and easy, and it has tremendous benefits for the health of everyone in your home.
These steps will eliminate germs:
- Take out the batteries. For wired game controllers, unplug the electrical cord.
- Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the device.
- Use an antibacterial wipe to clean all exterior surfaces of the device. An alternative is to spray a small amount of antibacterial cleaner on a clean cloth.
- If you spot any debris around the buttons and knobs, use a toothpick to remove the mess.
These steps will kill germs on the remotes and controllers, and there are other steps to take to keep them cleaner for a longer period of time.
For example, everyone in the home should practice good hygiene. This includes washing hands after using the bathroom and after handling food. Your hands should also be washed after touching pets and when returning home.
Remember that many other areas of your home are hotspots for bacteria and other germs. These include door knobs, kitchen counters, appliance handles and even bed sheets. Because of the many areas in your home that can be contaminated with germs, it makes sense to wash your hands several times per day even when you’re in your own home.
In addition, ensure that these problematic areas are cleaned regularly to minimize the number of germs in your home.
How Often Should You Clean Remotes And Controllers?
Cleaning gaming controls and TV remotes is a quick process that should only take a minute to do. You typically only need to clean these devices every few weeks. However, if someone in your home is ill, it’s important to clean the remotes and controllers daily until your home is illness-free.
Simply incorporate this step into your regular cleaning routine. The perfect time to clean these items in most homes is when you’re dusting the furniture.
TV remotes and game controllers are only some of the many areas of your home that you might be overlooking on cleaning day. Germs and allergens can lurk on every surface in your home, so thorough cleaning is essential.
Our cleaners Boston take the hassle out of having an immaculate home. We offer the comprehensive range of cleaning services that you need for routine and deep cleaning. Schedule an appointment with Tidyhere today.
