How to Clean Your Smartphone Charging Port (Without Damaging It)

Your iPhone or smartphone charging port sees a lot of action, much more than meets the eye. As soon as your phone leaves its original packaging, the port starts collecting small amounts of dust and debris, which can eventually compromise its functionality. It can short-circuit, which can become a safety issue, or affect device performance or charging.

According to Chicago tech expert Sam Devia, cleaning your phone's charging port is a simple but often overlooked maintenance step that can keep your device running smoothly and also prevent unnecessary repair costs.

Here's how to clean your smartphone charging port safely and effectively.

Why It's So Important to Clean Your Device's Charging Port

Over time, your phone's charging port is bound to collect lint, dust, and debris, especially if kept in your pocket. “This buildup can stop the charging cable from connecting properly, which can lead to slow charging, a loose connection, or not charging at all,” explains Devia.

A clogged port can also affect your data connection. “You’ll struggle to sync or back up your phone if the port is dirty,” says Steven Athwal, managing director at The Big Phone Store.

How to Clean Smartphone Charging Ports

When cleaning your phone's charging port, never use water, warns Athwal, as you’ll risk short-circuiting or oxidizing the port. You'll also want to avoid the use of metal objects like tweezers, pins, and needles, as they can damage the port’s internal pins.

“Before you begin, be aware that the pins inside the charging port are delicate,” says Devia. “Damaging them can result in the need for an expensive port replacement. If you’re not confident, it’s best to bring your device to a professional.”

Supplies:

• Wooden toothpick (or a non-metal, sharp plastic tool)
• Flashlight
• Compressed air can
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• Screen-safe cleaning solution (optional)
• Anti-static cleaning brush (optional)

Instructions:

1. Power down your phone before starting any cleaning, says Athwal.
2. Inspect the port with a flashlight. Most lint and debris will be tightly compressed at the bottom center of the port.
3. Use a wooden toothpick or plastic pick to carefully loosen the debris, says Devia. Be careful not to use force, which could cause damage.
4. Blow out the loosened debris using short bursts from a compressed air can. Devia recommends holding the can upright and maintaining a safe distance to keep moisture from entering the port.
5. Repeat the process as needed. ”Gently dislodge more lint and use compressed air until the port appears clear,” instructions Devia.
6. Optional: For an extra-thorough clean, use an anti-static brush with a screen and electronic-safe cleaning spray. “After spraying on the brush, gently clean the inside of the port using the brush,” says Athwal. If necessary, lightly wipe around the outside of the port, using a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with a cleaning solution. Never spray solution directly into the port. Allow the port to dry completely before switching your phone back on. 

When to Consult a Professional

If you’ve cleaned the port and your phone still isn’t charging properly (even with different cables) or if the cable doesn't attach securely, you'll likely need a new charging port, says Devia. A professional will have the tools to swap out the port for a new one.

If you choose to replace the port yourself, always replace it with an original Apple charging port (or your smartphone's specific maker). “We’ve tested thousands of ports, and no third-party replacements work as well,” says Athwal. “They cause freezing, random restarts, and all sorts of problems.” Primarily, he advises keeping your iPhone port clean in the short term to avoid the cost of having to replace it in the future. Best keep up with this easy cleaning routine!