How to Clean USB C Port Step by Step

So far, with the advancement of technology, all gadgets also have advanced in functionality, durability, and designs. Also, most issues that spring up from using these gadgets can easily be rectified using simple hacks.

So what happens when you try charging your smartphone, and it does not charge? This could be a simple error caused by accumulated dirt in the charging port of your phone.

Whether you are an iOS or Android user, you may face this problem as long as your charging port is exposed. This article will be recommending ways Andriod users using a Type C USB port can free up their port as it is prone to dirt, dust, and lint.

Common Signs of Clogged USB-C Port

  • Charging while not plugged in

If your device starts charging, even if you do not have a charger plugged in, the port has an issue. This issue might be due to accumulated dirt inside the port.

  • Unable to Transfer Data using USB

Also, when your USB C port stops transferring data when trying to use your device with an accessory. This issue might be due to different errors, and regardless of the cause, your port won’t be able to transfer data not until you clean out the port.

  • Charger not fitting into the port

Once you cannot plug in your charge to the port it usually fits into before, it is a sign that the port is clogged.

Examining your USB Port

Once you discover that your phone is not charging and the issue is not from the charger, the first step is to examine the charging port. Most Andriod users experience charging users once their UBC port is dirty.

To examine your port, you can use a flashlight to check the port for any traces of dirt. Once you can find traces, decide on the tool you will be using to free the port way.

Most people have different tools they use and the most common being a toothpick. However, this is the least recommended as a toothpick can break midway through the process and cause more damages.

Two Ways to Clean USB C Port

Check out some of our top picks recommendations on how to clean USB C Port:

1. Sim Card Ejector

Instead of using a toothpick, you can use a sim card ejector. A sim card ejector is a tool that comes with your mobile device. You can use this tool to snag and pull out specks of dirt on both sides of the port.

While doing this, ensure that you do not push the sim ejector too deep while pulling out the specks of dirt. You can place a tissue beneath the port area to gather the dirt.

You can blow air into the port once you are satisfied that the port is clean to eject any dirt the sim ejector could not pick. If you are using this method, be cautious of inserting the tool too deep or bending it not to damage the electrical connection.

2. Compressed Air

Using compressed air is one of the most prominent and effective methods of cleaning USB C ports.

To use this method, you can get a can of compressed air, loosen and blow out the dirt using the star-like edge of the can to spray air into the port. You can do this intermittently – that is, use short and controlled bursts of air to clean the port carefully.

A short burst of air should not be more than two seconds. Also, position the can to spray air at an angle that will push the dirt out. Generally, five to six short bursts of air should clean and get rid of dirt, lint, and gunk inside the port.

Pro Tips on How to Prevent Port Clogging

If you are constantly having issues with your port getting dirty, you might want to try some of the tips below:

  • Dust Cover

Get yourself dust cover. There are tons of these protective covers available in different colors. These dust cover protect your port from accumulating dirt once it is inserted. So, you insert it once you are done charging your device.

  • Phone case with Dustproof

Just like the dust cover, some phone cases come with dustproof. Getting one of these is cost-effective, and it will help prevent your port from gathering dust, lint, etc.

  • Pocket your phone upside down

When you are out, instead of holding your device, you can put it in your pocket. However, you have to out the side with the port first, not exposed and gathering dirt.

Conclusion

Once you clean the port using any of the above recommendations, you can plug in your charger to check if the USB port is working correctly. Also, you can still use a flashlight to check again if there is any dirt residual in the port. If there are any, repeat the process until you can no longer see any dirt in the port.

However, suppose your device refuses to charge after trying any of the methods mentioned above. You will have to contact support or a technician as the issue might be a damaged charging port.