How to Clean an Old Game Cartridge

You still have your old computer gaming system, it still works and you still want to play your old games. But your old game cartridges have seen better days and need a good cleaning to play properly. Here's how to shine them like new.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Windex or isopropyl alcohol
• Q-tips
• Paper towel
• Sand paper

1. Pour Windex or isopropyl alcohol into a small cup.
2. Dip a Q-tip into your cleaner. Remove any excess liquid on the q-tip with a paper towel.
3. Wipe the q-tip gently along the contact points (the metal parts) of the game cartridge.
4. Dry the contact points with the dry half of the q-tip immediately. Avoid letting any liquid sit on the game cartridge. Repeat this until the q-tip comes away clean.
5. Consider blowing compressed air into the game cartridge to loosen any dirt and dust. Make sure you hold the compressed air 1 inch to 1/2 inch away or you could end up ruining the cartridge.
6. Try sandpaper and rubbing alcohol if you notice rust on the contacts. Use small, fine-grain sand paper, and rub it just a few times over the contact points to remove the rust. Clean the contact points again using your Q-tip.
7. Put the game into your gaming system and see if it works. It should.

Tips & Warnings

• Store your game cartridges in plastic cases to prevent them from getting dirty.
• Avoid using water to clean your game cartridges as this can cause rust.