Power Strip & Surge Protector Cleaner
Safely remove dust and grime from power strips, surge protectors, and extension cords
10 min beginner Yields Enough for 2–3 power strips
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Isopropyl alcohol (70%)
- 1 tablespoon Distilled water
- 5–6 Cotton swabs
- 1 Dry microfiber cloth
- 1 Soft-bristle paintbrush
Steps
- Unplug the power strip from the wall outlet. Unplug all devices from it.
- Use a dry soft-bristle paintbrush to sweep dust out of each socket opening. Hold the strip upside down so debris falls out.
- Dampen a cotton swab with the alcohol-water mix and carefully clean around the outside edges of each socket — never push liquid inside.
- Wipe down the entire exterior casing with a barely-damp microfiber cloth.
- Clean the power cord using the pinch-and-slide method (see our Cable & Wire Cleaner recipe).
- Let the strip air dry for at least 10 minutes before plugging anything back in.
Why It Works
Dust buildup in and around outlets is a fire hazard. Regular cleaning reduces this risk and keeps connections reliable.
Tips
- Clean power strips every 2–3 months, or monthly in dusty environments
- Never use a wet cloth or spray bottle near socket openings
- If a power strip looks scorched, cracked, or discolored around any outlet, replace it immediately
- Surge protectors lose effectiveness over time — check the indicator light regularly