Is your mobile phone charging more and more poorly, or even not charging at all? Before taking it to a professional repairman, try this simple, free tip to solve a very common problem.
Is your smartphone charging weak? The plug at the end of the cable no longer fits well in its housing? Don't panic! Before taking your expensive mobile phone to a repairman, getting out the soldering iron, or thinking about changing the model, just try cleaning the connector. In fact, if – like many – you are accustomed to leaving your smartphone in your pocket, the problem most likely comes from dust, or more precisely, from fabric residue that has accumulated over time at the bottom of the opening. . It is these fine threads that prevent the connector from being properly inserted into the phone's port, preventing good electrical contact. The diagnosis is also easy to make: if the male plug does not fit well into the female housing and charging occurs in dotted lines, it is generally the fault of the lint toys! This common small issue concerns Android phones that use classic USB plugs (micro-USB or USB-C) and iPhones that use Apple's Lightning format.
The solution to this very common problem is very simple and accessible to everyone because it does not require technical knowledge or special equipment. The only tool you need is a simple toothpick, made of wood or plastic. Metal needle-like objects can cause damage when used in certain circumstances. Failing that, you can also use a toothbrush or nailbrush, these little toiletry accessories will do the trick.
Even if it's not necessary, turn off your phone — no need to remove the battery — then insert a toothpick or toothbrush into the socket and gently scrape it off. In just a few seconds you will remove the famous accumulated lint. Repeat the process to remove as much residue as possible. You may be surprised by what you get, especially if you have never had the procedure before…
If you have one, you'll likely use a can of compressed air or a vacuum cleaner, with the appropriate reducer — a small plastic attachment that reduces diameter and increases suction flow — to remove remaining dust. Then make sure the connection is made correctly when inserting the male plug. That's it !
Note that this simple cleaning – which should be carried out regularly for prevention, or as soon as the first symptoms appear – applies to all small mobile devices, whatever their brand. But also tablets: of course, we rarely put them in a pocket, but they can be placed on a bedspread, for example… You can also apply the method to other female plugs – in fact, anywhere where stuffed toys can be found “accumulating – , including small headphone jacks. But be careful, since these connections are very small, a toothpick will not be the best fit. Try the process with a finer tool – a sewing needle for example – taking the precaution this time of removing the battery if it is To remove.
Finally, if this simple cleaning does not yield conclusive results, try charging your phone with another charger and another cable: we often forget it, but this flexible element is fragile, especially when handled without care. Also remember to check the charger and cable on another phone or tablet.
