How to Clean an NES System

Unplug the system. Flip the NES upside down and remove the six screws. Separate the bottom of the unit from the top cover.

Remove the seven screws that attach the metal cover to the unit, and lift this piece off the system.

Blow out any dust that has collected inside the machine. It is not necessary to remove all of the dirt at this stage, but any large particles that can be easily removed should be swept away. If you do not have compressed air, blowing into the system will also work.

Clean the contacts with a toothbrush and cotton swabs lightly moistened with glass cleaner. If you need assistance identifying the contacts, you can insert an NES cartridge into the system the same way you would if the cover were still attached. You will have to clean many years of dirt, so increased pressure is likely necessary, and will not harm the contacts.

Swab the contacts with a dry cotton swab to absorb any moisture that may have been left behind. Let the system sit for several minutes so that any remaining moisture evaporates before reconnecting the power.

Test the machine by inserting an NES cartridge into the system and pressing the power button. It is safe to do this without reassembling the system. If the television screen and/or LED power indicator flash, turn off the system, remove the cartridge, unplug the power cord and repeat Steps 3 to 5. If the system still does not work, you may have a problem that cleaning cannot fix.

Scrub the outer plastic with the toothbrush and glass cleaner. While this will remove dirt and dust, any yellowing of the plastic is permanent and cannot be removed through cleaning.

Put the unit back together the same way you broke it down, and replace the screws. The screws should be tightened only until they are snug. Overtightening the screws may damage the plastic.