Have you ever wondered how to clean a router? Do you need to replace one because it is no longer performing as it should? Let’s first discover what a router is.
A router is a fundamental tool for any type of internet service. This is because it is the device that directs information about different devices and networks, hence why it is important to know how to clean a router.
Anyone can clean up their own router but you will have to be careful in order to preserve the functionality of your device.
The best way to learn how to clean a router is to use vinegar and water.
Cleaning your router can seem like a daunting task. It’s just one of those things that we know we should but never get around to actually doing. So, am I right? Or am I right?
One of the most likely things that will go wrong with your router is that dust will build up inside it.
When dust and other undesirable objects – for example, leftover food crumbs or insects – are present inside your router, this leads to unclean components and eventually reduces the quality of your internet connection.
Router dust is a common problem. It can be caused by a router that’s too close to your router table or from just normal use.
The dust will eventually build up and make it harder to cut accurately. This article will explain how to clean a router.
I’ve got an old router that I couldn’t get to connect correctly. In order to fix it, I had to open it up and clean it out. But how do you clean a router? After doing a bit of research, I came up with this list of tips for cleaning a router. Hope this helps you!
It’s easy to clean a router. Follow the article properly.

Table of Contents
Do routers need to be cleaned?
Do routers need to be cleaned? The answer is yes. Routers collect dust, it’s a fact of life, and dust can create problems with your wireless signal.
In the long term, keeping a router clean can help to extend its lifespan, which will save you money in the long run.
If you’re still not convinced that routers need to be cleaned, here are a few reasons why:
1) Dust gets on everything. With lots of people working from home these days—with kids and pets running around—there’s more dust than ever. It’s impossible to keep dust off of everything that sits on your desk or table, so don’t be surprised when it finds its way onto your router.
2) Dust affects performance. If you’ve ever had trouble with your wireless connection and been told by your internet service provider (ISP) that there must be something wrong with the router, chances are it was because the router was dirty and needed cleaning. In general, dust will have an impact on any electronic device that has ventilation holes or fans. Routers are no exception.
3) Cleaning isn’t hard. There are lots of ways to clean a router—so many that we’ve compiled a list of them in this article.
Another Post: How to clean a white Casio watch? Best 5 Steps.
What you will need.
Rubber cement is a good and cheap choice for temporarily holding down screws that are being tightened.
Just a dab of the glue enough to hold them in place will do the trick. Cheap synthetic rope works well as ties for cords, etc..
You can even use bungee cords..
Use electric hand tools to unplug your router, including the power cord and computer cord.
Watch the video to learn how to clean a router properly.
video credit: Atoys
How to Clean a Router: Follow the steps.
Let’s face it: your router is one of the dirtiest items in your house. In fact, a study from the University of Arizona found that the average router is home to over 3,000 types of bacteria and fungi—some of which may cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues.
If you’re wondering how to clean a router, it’s actually pretty simple. With a few basic cleaning tools, you can have your router looking new in no time.
Unplug the router.
The first step in how to clean a router is to unplug it from both the wall outlet and your computer.
The first step in cleaning a router is to unplug the power cord from the router and disconnect your computer from the router. This will ensure safety for yourself and for your equipment.
Use compressed air or a vacuum cleaner to remove dust.
Once the device has been unplugged for about two minutes, plug it back in and wait for about one minute for it to fully reboot.
This will give you access to the settings screen, where you can reset your network password if necessary.
Then, when you’re ready to begin cleaning, unplug it again!
Using a damp cloth, wipe down all of the outer surfaces of the device with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer (or both!).
Be sure not to get any liquid into interior crevices or ports where moisture could damage sensitive circuitry; use a cotton swab or toothpick dipped in alcohol instead if needed.
Then let dry completely.
Another Post: How to clean the headphone jack Best 7 Steps [ Authentic ].
Remove the antennas.
Remove the rubber feet from the bottom of the router and set them aside.
Remove the screws securing the antennas to the top of the router, using a Phillips screwdriver or a hex wrench. If there are two antennas, remove both screws, then pull out each antenna by its wire loop. The wires can be unwound from a spool inside the router, so don’t be afraid to pull hard!
Remove any remaining screws from around the base of your router—you should find four additional holes around its sides and back where other parts once secured themselves to it.
Unscrew these with your screwdriver or hex wrench, then slowly pull off any plastic coverings that may be hiding other screws (such as those found on some Belkin routers).
Finally, you’ll see four more Phillips screws holding down your router’s base plate; unscrew these four with your screwdriver or hex wrench as well.
Use a small brush to remove dust and large debris.
Dust and debris can build up in your router, which can cause your router to overheat and reduce its performance. Follow these steps to clean your router:
Step 1 – Cleaning the Router Base
Use a small brush to remove dust and large debris. This can include cleaning around the collet (where the bit goes in) and the motor shaft (where the bit attaches). Use compressed air if you have it available, but do not use water or solvents on any part of your router unless specifically told to do so by the manufacturer.
Step 2 – Cleaning Up Your Collets
Your collets should be cleaned every time after using them or at least once every six months. You don’t want any debris getting into them when they are not being used because this can cause problems when you try to use them again later on down the road. To clean them, use compressed air (if possible) or blow compressed air into each one after each use. You can also take an electric drill with a small wire brush attachment (one that fits inside of the collet) and spin it inside of each one for about 10 seconds ata time. Don’t use too much pressure or you can cause them to crack.
Step 3 – Cleaning the Motor Shaft
The motor shaft will also collect debris and should be cleaned if it does. You should clean the motor shaft once a month to keep it from getting clogged up. You can do this by taking a shop rag, wrapping it around an old screwdriver or nail, and then attaching this to the shaft with masking tape. Then, let the tool spin in one direction for about 10 seconds. Take the tape off and repeat with the other direction.
Step 4 – Cleaning around your collets
The area around your collets will also collect dust particles. You should clean this area with compressed air or brush it clean with a small wire brush. If you can’t get compressed air, use a shop rag with a little bit of rubbing alcohol to clean all of these areas.
Step 5 – Cleaning your Router Bits
You will also have to clean your router bits at some point. You can wash them after each use with mineral spirits for best results. If you do this, you should let them air dry for about 15 minutes before you put them away. If you don’t have mineral spirits on hand, then mild soap and water will work just fine. Use a rag to scrub them down, then let them air dry for about 30 minutes before putting them away.
Finally, we’ll finish off with a few tips on how to clean your router.
Another post: How to clean iPhone speakers properly best 3 ways.
How to Clean Router Bits?
If you are a woodworker who uses a router, then you should be familiar with the importance of keeping your router bits clean.
A dirty bit can cause your machine to vibrate in an uncontrollable manner, which can damage the bit as well as your workpiece.
You also need to keep your router table and all other tools clean as well. Here are some tips on how to clean a router:
Safety first! You must wear proper safety gear before attempting any cleaning. This includes eye protection and gloves.
Use compressed air to blow out dust from the collet nut area of the bit. You can also use an air compressor or shop vacuum if necessary.
Use a wire brush on the flutes of the bit (the grooves where timber passes through). Do not use a wire brush on any other part of the bit as it will damage it beyond repair.
Cleaning router bits is not an easy task. The bits are made of hardened steel and are designed to work on hard surfaces.
They can be very sharp and cause serious injuries if not handled properly.
The most important thing to remember when cleaning router bits is not to force them into any material that they do not fit into.
This can damage the bit and make it unusable.
Another post: How to clean the iphone charging port? Best 2 Methods.
To clean router bits, you must use a special tool called a collet wrench. It has a handle with a series of holes in it that will fit over different-sized collets (the collet wrench works for all brands of routers).
When you insert the collet wrench into the collet opening (the opening in your router where the bit goes), you can then tighten or loosen the collet nut by turning the handle clockwise or counterclockwise.
This will hold your bit securely so that it cannot move around during use.
After each project or after using your router for several hours at one time, remove any sawdust from around the base and check for wear marks on your router bits.
If there are any marks on them, use rubbing alcohol or wax remover to remove them before continuing on with your project or turning off your router machine.
I have a router table and have been using it for years. I never clean my router bits until they are dull.
Then I just use a file to clean them up, but they still do not cut as well as they did when they were new. Is there something else that I should be doing to clean them up?
The first step is to make sure the bit is sharpened correctly. If the edge is bent or if the cutting edges aren’t sharp enough, then you need to sharpen the bit.
If you have a bench-top model, there are several options for sharpening. For example, if you have a Dremel tool, you can use its built-in sharpening attachment or buy an extra accessory from Dremel (called a jig) that allows you to set the depth of cut and width of cut precisely by adjusting screws on the body of the tool.
This is an inexpensive way to get good results quickly and easily with little skill required on your part (but not all routers will accept this accessory).
Alternatively, for about $35 you can purchase an inexpensive manual bench grinder from Harbor Freight Tools.
How to remove pitch from router bits?
You can use a few different methods to clean your router bit, but if you want to remove pitch from your router bits, the best one is to use a hand-held wire brush.
The brush will get into small spaces that other methods—including using alcohol or turpentine—cannot.
To remove pitch from router bits, begin with the smallest diameter cutter and work up to the largest diameter one.
To remove pitch from router bits, start with a small round file (about 1/4″ in width).
You’ll want to use this file on all the cutters on your router bit. File until you’ve exposed all of the cutters (that’s what they’re called), and then gently knock them out of the bit.
Once they’re out, you can take a wire brush and scrub off any remaining pitch. It’s easiest to start at one end and work your way down; this keeps the bristles clean as they go, making it easier to remove pitch from router bits.
Once you’ve removed all of the pitch from your router bit, use a solvent-based metal cleaner like WD-40 or mineral oil.
Apply it liberally to the metal surface and let it sit for three minutes before wiping off excess with a soft cloth.
Pitch is the stuff that builds up on your router bits. It comes from the softwoods you cut.
If you don’t remove it, it will burn and gum up your bits, and make them dull much faster than they should. Luckily, there’s a simple way to get rid of it. All you need is some mild soap, a toothbrush, a towel, and some rubbing alcohol.
The first step is to run your router bit under hot water for about 30 seconds. This makes it easier to remove the pitch. Next, mix a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol with one teaspoon of dish soap in lukewarm water.
Soak your router bit in the solution for about two minutes, then scrub it gently with a toothbrush. When you’re done scrubbing, wipe off excess water and pitch with a dry towel, and set the bit aside to dry completely before putting it back into your router case.
How to clean saw blades and router bits?
One of the most common problems with dirty router bits is the buildup on the cutting edge. You can remedy this by using a router bit cleaning tool, which consists of a tiny knife that you run against the bit’s cutting edge, scraping off any debris.
This can be bought at most hardware stores, but there are also DIY versions you can make yourself out of things like pushpins, paper clips, and safety pins—you can even use a toothpick!
Once the cutting edge is clean, you’ll need to clean the rest of the bit. To do so, you can use a soft bristle brush or compressed air (which you should direct away from your face).
You may also want to use specialty cleaners; for example, if you have carbide-tipped bits, don’t use water-based cleaners.
If you’re looking to really spruce up your bits, consider using special cleaners that are designed to enhance their surface properties.
For example, titanium nitride (TiN) will provide better lubricity and makes it easier to cut through materials like aluminum and brass. Tungsten carbide will improve hardness and lubricity. The diamond coating will reduce tool friction and improve wear resistance.
You may not realize it, but your router and saw blades don’t stay clean for long—in fact, after just a few hours of use, they can be covered in sawdust and other debris.
It’s very important to make sure you clean your tools after each use: If you don’t, the dirt that builds up on them can negatively affect how well they work.
Luckily, there are some easy ways to clean your equipment that will help keep your tools in good shape so you’ll be able to use them for years to come.
You can do this by using a toothbrush or other soft-bristled brush (a paintbrush works well) to remove any buildup from your tools.
You can also use compressed air to blow away any dust or debris that has built up on your equipment.
If you have an electric router or saw, it’s important not to get water into the motor.
This could cause damage and even render the tool unusable. To keep this from happening, make sure that you never spray water directly onto these types of power tools while cleaning them; instead, use damp cloths or brushes to wipe away any dirt or debris from their exterior surfaces only.
Also, note that if you have woodworking equipment with handles made out of wood.

How do I clean an e-file bit?
Cleaning an e-file bit is super simple! All you need is some Isopropyl Alcohol, a towel, and a bit of brush.
When you’re ready to clean your bit, pour some alcohol into the cup and dip the bit into the alcohol to let it soak for 1-2 minutes.
This will help to remove any product residue that may be leftover on the bit. Once you’ve let the bit soak for 1-2 minutes, use a towel and some pressure to wipe off excess product.
To get into the small crevices use a bit brush or a new toothbrush to scrub away any remaining residue from your previous service.
Check out our video below to see how to properly clean an e-file bit!
You can clean your e-file bit by using a brush or a toothpick to remove the debris that can build up over time.
You’ll then want to wipe the bit with a dry cloth to remove any remaining residue or particles.
You can also use a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol to wipe away any adhesives that may be present on the bit.
If you’ve noticed that your e-file is making a squeaky noise, it’s likely because of a buildup of dirt. Try cleaning the bit and see if this takes care of the problem.
To clean the bit, first, remove it from the e-file. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any filings and dust that have accumulated on the bit.
For any difficult-to-remove residue, use a small amount of alcohol to gently wipe the bit. Once you’re finished wiping, allow the bit to air dry completely before reinserting it into your e-file.
For more detailed instructions on replacing and cleaning your e-file bits, check out our instructional video!
How do you clean a dirty router?
Some of the best wireless routers can get pretty pricey, so it’s a good idea to make sure you’re taking care of yours.
Since it’s sitting there in the open, getting kicked around, and collecting dust, it’s a magnet for dirt and grime.
How do you clean a dirty router? It’s actually a lot easier than you might think!
Check out the following steps to make your router look like new:
Firstly, unplug your router from its power source. Make sure that you don’t have any wires or antennas plugged into it during this process either.
Grab your cleaning cloth and apply some alcohol cleaner to it. Next, use your cloth to scrub down your router until all of the dust is gone.
After that, plug in your router and use it as normal.
As with any electronic device, make sure that you never apply the liquid directly to the surface of the device itself.
Also, if you’re ever unsure about how to clean something, don’t be afraid to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek out help from an expert!
A dirty router can mean a slow internet connection, and who wants that?
Luckily, it’s really easy to clean, and here are some tips on how to do it right. First, unplug the router.
Then, use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the outside. Next, remove any dust that has collected in the vents with a can of compressed air.
If your router has a detachable antenna, remove it now and blow air into the holes where it was attached.
Be careful not to touch or shake the antennae too much, as this can damage it.
Finally, reattach the antennae and plug your router back in. You’re done! Congratulations!
How do you clean foam nail files?
I hope this is going to help a lot of people who are having the same problem. I have owned a few routers and they always seem to get dirty and it’s hard to clean them. This is how I clean my router.
- Step 1: Get a sponge and water
- Step 2: Put water on the sponge
- Step 3: Sponge the router
- Step 4: Let it dry.
Foam nail files are more gentle on your nails than their emery board counterparts.
They’re also cheap and easy to replace, which means you don’t have to worry about cleaning them as often.
But if you do want to keep them around for a while, it’s important to learn how to clean foam nail files the right way. Here are four ways you can clean your foam nail file:
- -Soak in rubbing alcohol or white vinegar for a day
- -Gently scrub with a toothbrush dipped in rubbing alcohol
- -Place in a bowl of water with a few drops of dishwashing soap and leave overnight
- -Insert into the washing machine with other small items (like socks) and wash on a delicate cycle.
You can also use a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to clean your foam buffer. The key is to get the swab into any cracks or crevices where dirt may be hiding.
Once you’ve cleaned the surface, rinse with warm water and let the foam air-dry before using it again.
How do you know if you need a new router?
There are several ways to tell if your router is on the way out, and some are easier to determine than others.
The easiest way is to look at the last time you bought a new router: If it’s more than 3-4 years old, then it’s probably time for an upgrade.
Another easy way of telling whether your router has seen better days is by checking its performance.
If devices in your home regularly report poor reception, or if they frequently disconnect from your network, then your router might be on its last legs.
You can check the performance of your network using a free app like Speedtest by Ookla. The app will also tell you whether you have sufficient bandwidth for all of your connected devices.
If so, then you’ll know that the problem isn’t with your internet service.
You may also notice problems when streaming content to other devices in your home. This problem can be caused by insufficient bandwidth, but it can also be caused by a router that’s reached the end of its useful life.
In addition to keeping track of how long you’ve had the router (and whether it’s been around longer than 4 years).
What can I use to clean a router bit?
There are a few ways you can clean a router bit. The first, and most obvious, is to just run it through the dishwasher.
This is the best way to get rid of any gunk on your bits, but it’s not without its drawbacks.
First of all, you’ll have to take apart each bit and remove the bearings and flanges.
You’ll also have to be careful about leaving any water or soap residue in your bits.
You can also soak them overnight in rubbing alcohol or mineral oil if you want to be less aggressive with them. If you don’t want to put your bits in the dishwasher, then this is probably your best option.
Another way is to use compressed air or an air compressor to blow out any gunk from inside the bearing housing.
This is more effective than soaking in alcohol because it removes all traces of dirt from inside the bearing housing rather than just on top of it like a bath would do.

Conclusion of how to clean a router
To properly clean your router, you must first unplug it and its modem from the wall. Carefully open the top of the router and remove any screws that may be holding it down.
Gently place the router on its side and pull out any loose dust or debris using a can of compressed air. Do not use a vacuum cleaner, as this could damage the router.
Be sure to check for any torn pieces of paper or plastic material that might have gotten stuck inside the router ports. If you find any, gently pull them out with a pair of tweezers.
If your router uses a fan, make sure that the fan blades are free to rotate without obstruction. Replace the cover on your router and screw it back in. Finally, plug everything back into the wall and turn it on again.
Hopefully, this article helped you out. If you have any questions or would like to share your experience cleaning a router, please feel free to comment below.
And there you go! By following these steps, you should be able to clean your router so that it looks new. If all else fails, remember you can always buy a new router to replace your old one.
At this point, your router should be clean and working properly. But if a router is not cleaned regularly, it can get really dirty, really fast, which can lead to performance issues. You should consider cleaning your router every 3 to 6 months.
Congratulations on the clean router! Now you can go about your business—and let your router do its job without getting in the way.
And that’s all there is to it! If you’ve got a router, you can clean it just like this. It should be a regular part of your routine as long as you want a good connection to the internet. Cleaning your router is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do to keep yourself connected continuously, whether for work or for fun. So, get out there and clean that sucker!
Hopefully, with these steps, you can keep your router clean and in working order. We would love to hear if you have any other ways to keep your router clean!
The point of cleaning your router is to keep the device producing reliable Wi-Fi. The more dust that accumulates, the less efficiently it can send and receive.
So even if you don’t think yours needs a cleanup, it’s best to follow the steps above and check at least once a year. You might be surprised by what you find!