How to Clean Electrical Outlets
Dirt and grime stand out on electrical outlets any time walls are cleaned or resurfaced. Spraying cleaners directly on the outlets is an electrocution hazard. Take special precautions when working with liquids around electrical switches and outlets.
Cleaning the outlets is a safe, quick job that is manageable by most homeowners when keeping electrical safety a top priority.
Things You Will Need
- Screwdriver
- Small dish
- Liquid detergent
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Window cleaner
- Paper towels
Tip
Safety when working with and around electricity can never be over-emphasized. Home improvement specialist Bob Vila states the importance of maintaining the condition and safety of all home electrical outlets at electrical.bobvila.com. (See Resources.)
Warning
Keep electricity shut off while working with the outlets. Do not allow liquids to access the electrical plug-ins.
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Turn off the electricity to the outlets at the breaker box. Keep the electricity off for the duration of this project.
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Remove all electrical outlet plates with a screwdriver. Contain the screws in a small dish.
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Soak the outlet covers in a mixture of ¼ cup of liquid detergent and a bucket of water. Scrub the surface of the covers with a sponge. Rinse with clear water, and set them aside to air dry.
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Spray a small amount of window cleaner on two paper towels. Carefully wipe the outlet plugs. Do not get liquid in the prong holes. Allow 30 minutes for all the outlets to dry.
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Replace the electrical outlet covers, and secure them with the corresponding screws. Turn the electricity back on at the breaker box.
The Drip Cap
- Dirt and grime stand out on electrical outlets any time walls are cleaned or resurfaced.
- Turn off the electricity to the outlets at the breaker box.
- Soak the outlet covers in a mixture of ¼ cup of liquid detergent and a bucket of water.
- Scrub the surface of the covers with a sponge.
