How to Clean an Old Game Cartridge

Last Updated: March 29, 2022 Approved

How to clean a video game cartridge using inexpensive products from around the house. Using this method you can clean most cartridges from systems like the N64, Game Boy and Atari 2600 systems.

Steps

1
Get a small container of alcohol. It is recommended not to dip the swab in the bottle of alcohol, as not to contaminate it.
2
Dip a cotton swab in the alcohol.

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3
Carefully, but firmly rub the alcohol doused cotton swab against the copper contacts of the game cartridge. Rub about 2 times back and forth, and switch to the other side of the swab. Continue until the swab comes back without dirt on it.
4
Inspect the cartridges to be sure that there's no cotton fibers left on the cartridge.
5
Allow the cartridges to dry completely before you attempt to play them. It's best to let them air dry, and not blow on them.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I use hydrogen peroxide?

Jackson Quesinberry

Community Answer

No. Hydrogen peroxide is corrosive and will damage the contacts.
Question

Do I use rubbing alcohol in place of hydrogen peroxide?

Community Answer

In my experience with most 3DS/DS games, 91% isopropyl rubbing alcohol works just fine. However, in most cases I choose to distill it with water (one part water to two parts alcohol), just in case it may be a little too strong for some cartridges.