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To clean battery corrosion from a remote control safely and effectively, follow these steps:
What You’ll Need:
• Gloves (optional but recommended)
• Cotton swabs or a soft toothbrush
• White vinegar or lemon juice
• Baking soda (optional, for neutralizing afterward)
• Paper towels or a clean cloth
• Small screwdriver (if disassembly is needed)
Steps:
1. Remove the Batteries:
• Carefully take out the corroded batteries and dispose of them properly (per your local regulations).
2. Neutralize the Corrosion:
• Dip a cotton swab in white vinegar or lemon juice. These mild acids help neutralize the alkaline corrosion (usually from leaking AA or AAA batteries).
• Gently apply it to the corroded terminals and let it sit for a minute.
3. Scrub Away the Corrosion:
• Use a dry toothbrush or another swab to scrub the corrosion gently. Avoid damaging the metal contacts.
4. Wipe Clean:
• Wipe off the area with a paper towel or clean cloth. If desired, you can wipe again with a damp cloth to remove any acidic residue.
5. (Optional) Neutralize Acid Residue:
• If you used a lot of vinegar/lemon juice, you can lightly dab with a baking soda solution (1 tsp baking soda in 1 cup water), then wipe dry.
6. Let It Dry:
• Allow the remote to dry fully before reinserting batteries — at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
7. Test It:
• Insert fresh batteries and test the remote.