What’s the best way to clean the charging port on an iPhone?

Though modern iPhones have fewer open ports than ever, the charging connector is obviously still going to be with us for a long time. And one of the most common issues that arises is these ports getting dirty or full of lint from your pocket. In fact, if you’re wondering why your iPhone isn’t charging, your first step should be to clean out your charging port.

So, how do you do that? There are a couple of common ways but be forewarned that any cleaning of the charging port should be undertaken at your own risk. There are small copper connectors inside that you should avoid bending or damaging.

First, gather a couple of simple tools. A soft bristled brush like a clean, dry toothbrush can be useful. A wooden or plastic toothpick is also good to have on hand.

1. Power off your iPhone. Before you start cleaning, turn off your iPhone to prevent any short circuits.
2. Gently brush the port. Lightly brush the charging port with the soft-bristled brush. Move the brush gently in and out of the port to dislodge any debris. Avoid using metal objects or anything that might conduct electricity.
3. Use a toothpick if necessary. If there's stubborn debris, you can carefully use a wooden or plastic toothpick to gently scrape it out. Be very gentle to avoid damaging the connectors.
4. Test the port. Once you've finished cleaning, plug in your charger to see if it fits snugly and charges the device properly.
5. Seek professional help if needed. If you're uncomfortable cleaning the port yourself or if the issue persists, seek assistance from a professional or visit an authorized service provider.

Important Note: Avoid using liquids, compressed air, or metal objects, as they can damage the port. If you're unsure or uncomfortable about doing this yourself, it's always safer to consult a professional. If you need to clean your speaker grille, we’ve got another simple guide for you to check out here.