Waterproof Light SwitchThe switches on your home, car and office control a wide variety of electrical functions. Switches that are exposed to water often require waterproof technology to prevent corrosion and rust and allow them to continue working properly for many years. While daily wear and tear causes the majority of switch failures, contact with liquid is also a common cause of problems. Regular cleaning of light switches and their plates will help to prevent this problem from occurring.
In some locations - like the mudroom, garage or basement - light switches and electrical outlets become covered in dirt and grit that isn't just unsightly, it can prevent them from working properly. While it may be tempting to simply wipe these devices clean, it is important to follow the proper cleaning procedures to prevent shock or electrocution.
Using the tips of your cleaning brush dipped in rubbing alcohol, scrub the corners and grooves where dirt collects on light switches and electrical outlets. Rubbing alcohol dissolves the oils that migrate from our palms to our switches and produce the gunk that binds dirt and grime together. A Q-tip(tm) style cotton swab can be used to scrub the larger openings where grounding prongs insert into an outlet and where dirt often accumulates.
If a gentle wiping down isn't enough to keep your switches and outlets looking new, the easiest way to get them sparkling clean is by removing the covers (with the electricity turned off for safety). This will give you the opportunity to wash the plates in hot soapy water to remove stubborn marks. When the covers are removed be sure to collect any loose screws in a cup, jar or bag to avoid losing them.