Light switch covers and outlet plates are some of your home’s most frequently touched surfaces, making them prime spots for collecting dirt, grime, and germs. Despite this, they’re often overlooked during regular cleaning routines. Keeping these surfaces clean enhances your home’s appearance and helps maintain hygiene. In this article, we’ll guide you through effective methods for how to clean light switch covers and outlet plates to keep them spotless.

Why It’s Important to Clean Light Switch Covers and Outlet Plates

Whenever you touch a light switch or plug something into an outlet, oils from your skin, dust, and other particles transfer onto these surfaces. Over time, this can lead to a dirty light switch that looks unsightly and may harbor bacteria. Regular light switch cleaning and maintaining your outlet plates is essential to ensure a clean and healthy living environment.

How to Clean Light Switch Covers and Outlet Plates Step-by-step Guide

How to Clean Light Switch Covers?

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, gather the necessary cleaning supplies:

• A soft cloth or sponge
• Mild dish soap
• Water
• A small bowl
• A disinfectant wipe or spray
• A microfiber cloth for drying

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Safety first! Always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before cleaning light switches or outlet covers to avoid the risk of electric shock.

Step 3: Remove the Light Switch Cover Plates

Use a screwdriver to remove the light switch cover plates from the wall carefully. Place the screws in a safe spot so you don’t lose them.

Step 4: Clean the Light Switch Covers

• Soak and Wash:

1. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
2. Soak the light switch cover in the soapy water for a few minutes.
3. Gently scrub the cover with a soft cloth or sponge to remove dirt and grime.

• Rinse and Dry:

1. Rinse the cover under warm running water to remove any soap residue.
2. Dry the cover thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

• Disinfect:

1. After cleaning, use a disinfectant wipe or spray to sanitize the cover.
2. Allow it to air dry completely before reattaching it to the wall.

Step 5: Reattach the Light Switch Covers

Once the covers are dry, reattach them to the wall using the screws you set aside earlier. Make sure they are securely in place.

How to Clean Outlet Covers?

The process for how to clean outlet covers is similar to that for light switch covers. Follow these steps to ensure your outlet plates are clean and germ-free.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Just like with light switches, ensure the power is turned off at the circuit breaker before you start cleaning.

Step 2: Remove the Outlet Plates

Carefully remove the outlet plates using a screwdriver, keeping the screws in a safe spot.

Step 3: Clean the Outlet Covers

• Wash and Rinse:

1. Clean the outlet covers with the same soapy water solution used for the light switch covers.
2. Rinse thoroughly under warm water.

• Disinfect and Dry:

1. Disinfect the covers with a suitable disinfectant.
2. Dry them completely with a microfiber cloth before reattaching them.

Step 4: Reattach the Outlet Covers

Once the covers are clean and dry, reattach them to the wall and turn the power back on.

Tips for Cleaning Light Switch Covers and Outlet Panels Clean

• Regular Dusting:
  Dust the light switch plates and outlet covers regularly with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent dirt buildup.
• Disinfect Frequently Touched Areas:
  High-traffic areas, like the kitchen and bathroom, require more frequent light switch cleaning. To maintain cleanliness, disinfect these areas at least once a week.
• Consider Using a Dust Repellent:
  Applying a light dusting of furniture polish or a dust repellent on the covers can help keep them cleaner for longer.
• Watch for Stains:
  If you notice any stubborn stains or discoloration on the covers, consider replacing them with new ones to keep your home looking fresh.

Wipe to remove gummy, sticky fingerprints. Buff to dry. If the switch itself is dirty, a cotton-tip swab comes in handy. This is one of my little weekly chores—when I see smudges or dirt, I grab the microfiber cloth or a paper towel, apply some rubbing alcohol, and clean. I start with one and walk through the house, cleaning them all.

Conclusion

Cleaning your light switch covers and outlet plates may seem like a small task, but it can significantly impact your home’s overall cleanliness and hygiene. By incorporating regular light switch cleaning and how-to-clean outlet covers into your cleaning routine, you’ll keep these high-touch areas free from dirt and germs, ensuring a healthier environment for you and your family.