How to Ensure Your Video Game Controllers Are Safe from Coronavirus

About the Issue

The world of gaming has drastically changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. With social distancing guidelines in place, the traditional method of sharing controllers among friends has become less feasible. However, ensuring the safety of your gaming equipment remains a priority, especially when it comes to devices that come into frequent contact with your skin, such as video game controllers.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to clean your video game controllers effectively and safely, reducing the risk of coronavirus transmission. Whether you are a dedicated gamer or a parent concerned about hygiene, these tips will help you protect both the longevity and safety of your gaming devices.

Precautions to Take

While sharing controllers with others is no longer recommended, it’s still important to maintain hygiene practices. Here are some key steps you should follow:

Personal Gaming Devices: Consider dedicating specific controllers to each household member to limit the spread of germs. This is especially important if you have been in contact with many people outside the home. Hand Washing: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after gaming. This helps eliminate any potential contaminants on your hands before they come into contact with the controller. Limit Sharing: Avoid passing the controller around to others to minimize the risk of spreading germs or viruses.

Effective Cleaning Methods

Ensuring that your gaming controllers are hygienic involves regular cleaning. Here are detailed steps to keep them safe:

1. Alcohol and Water Solution

To clean your controllers, you can use a simple mixture of alcohol and water. This method is effective and relatively harmless to the controller’s components:

Mix the Solution: Combine 25% isopropyl alcohol with 75% water. Apply the Solution: Use a soft cloth to apply the solution to the controller’s surface. Be gentle to avoid damaging the electronics. Wipe Thoroughly: Wipe the entire surface of the controller, including buttons, joysticks, and D-pads. Ensure that you cover all areas that come into contact with your skin. Rinse and Dry: If necessary, rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the controller again to remove excess alcohol. Allow the controller to air-dry before using it.

2. Disinfectant Spray and Paper Towel

Disinfectant spray is another effective method. However, it requires caution to prevent damage:

Prepare the Spray: Mix a suitable disinfectant solution or use a store-bought spray. Apply to Paper Towel: Spray a small amount of the solution onto a paper towel or cloth. Then, use the cloth to wipe the controller’s surface. Use Baby Wipes as a Backup: If you have sensitive skin or young children at home, you can follow up with a baby wipe. This step is optional but recommended for sensitive skin types. Disinfectant Wipes: If you have disinfectant wipes available, you can use them as a substitute for the paper towel method. Ensure the wipes are suitable for use on electronic devices.

Preventing Cross-Contamination

Mastering the art of cleaning your gaming controllers is only one step in the journey towards maintaining a hygienic gaming environment. Here are additional tips to help prevent cross-contamination:

Designate Specific Controllers: Assign specific controllers to each family member or friend to minimize the risk of spreading germs. Store Clean Controllers Properly: After cleaning, store your controllers in a clean, dry place to prevent recontamination. Regular Hand Washing: Teach children or other household members to wash their hands regularly, especially before and after using the gaming area.

Conclusion

Ensuring that your video game controllers are free from contaminants is crucial in today’s world. By following these detailed cleaning methods and practicing good hygiene, you can continue to enjoy your favorite games without compromising your health. Remember, the small steps you take today can make a significant difference in the long run.