Charging Issues? Here’s How to Unclog Your iPhone or Android Charging Port

Nothing’s more frustrating than realizing your iPhone won’t charge when you plug in the cable. Whether you’re dealing with broken power cables, old plugs, or a damaged charging port, it’s important to diagnose the problem effectively. One common culprit behind charging issues is a clogged charging port, often caused by dust, dirt, and pocket lint.

Why is My Charging Port Blocked?

Smartphones lack covers for their charging ports, leaving them exposed to the elements—especially the dust and debris from your pockets. Each time you store your phone, particles accumulate inside the charging port. If you’ve had your device for a while, you’re likely to notice that the charger becomes less stable, requiring you to wiggle it to initiate a charge.

Over time, tiny particles compact into a solid barrier, obstructing the connection your charger needs. If you’ve noticed this happening, it’s time for a little spring cleaning—no matter if your device is an older iPhone with a Lightning connector or the latest Android model featuring USB-C.

How to Clean Out Your Phone’s Charging Port

Cleaning your phone’s charging port isn’t as daunting as it sounds. You will need a thin tool—like a toothpick or a cocktail stick. Wood or plastic is preferable to avoid damaging delicate components. Gently insert your chosen tool into the port and begin to scrape away the grime.

If you’re using a Lightning port, you can scrape back and forth, but for USB-C, focus on the sides around the middle connector. You might be surprised by how much debris accumulates. Though it’s tricky to see inside the port, make sure to clear out as much as possible before testing your charging cable once again.

Once cleaned, see if your charging experience improves. If it still won’t charge, consider replacing your cable or charger, as there could be deeper issues at play.