How to clean USB-C Port carefully and properly? See the steps

USB-C ports are popular! These ports are very common and may soon become “universal”. These can be found on most devices, be it phones, laptops, speakers, headphones and more. Thanks to the EU mandate, now iPhones may also sport a USB-C port, instead of the iconic lightning port.

However, there’s one problem with these ports, which is that they are prone to getting filled with dust, dirt and other debris, likely due to the fact that most carry their phones in pockets or laptops in bags – which you may not know, but might have dust or other unwanted particles.

How to properly clean a USB-C port?

Avoid inserting metal or sharp objects into the port, because forget about cleaning. It will do things even worse – damage the port. Here, we need two simple objects – one toothpick and a can of compressed air.

Compressed Air
It may do wonders, if used properly. Hold the can straight up and utilize the straw-like attachment to blow short bursts of air into the port, avoiding any liquid in the can.
If the compressed air fails to remove all the debris, proceed to using a toothpick or a disposable plastic dental pick.

Toothpick
Gently insert the thinned toothpick or dental pick into the port and carefully maneuver it to capture and extract debris from both sides of the central electrical contact located in the middle of the port. Take caution not to bend or damage the electrical connection while performing this step.

Conclude the cleaning process by once again using compressed air to blow into the port. This will help expel any loosened debris that may still be present from using the toothpick or dental pick.

FAQs

1. Why is USB-C so popular?
   It is popular because of various reasons, including faster data transfer speeds, reversible technology – there’s no up or down, unlike USB-A or USB-B.
2. When was USB-C launched?
   It was launched in August 2014. Shortly after, the tech firms and giants took the step to integrate this new-edge technology to their phones, and laptops. Notably, Apple was among the first few to participate with the 12-inch MacBook (2015).