Buzz
When dealing with car or household batteries, dirt and corrosion are common issues. This buildup can lead to acid leakage and reduce the battery's lifespan. Learn how to effectively clean battery terminals to extend your battery's life and save money.
Steps
Removing Corrosion from a Car Battery Terminal
Assess the condition of your car battery by lifting the hood. You can do this without removing the battery from the vehicle. Simply open the hood and locate the battery, usually found on the front-left side of the engine block. Check for cracks or signs of battery acid leakage. If the battery is intact, proceed with cleaning.
Assess the level of corrosion on the battery and cables. Lift the plastic covers on top of the battery to inspect the terminal/clamp interface. Check for excessive wear or corrosion on the battery cables and clamps. Corrosion usually appears as a white, ashy deposit around the battery posts. If there's minor corrosion or buildup, proceed with cleaning as outlined below.
Disconnect the negative and positive clamps from your car battery. Before cleaning the battery, it's necessary to disconnect it. Loosen the nuts on the clamps using a wrench. Start by removing the negative clamp (marked with a “-”) followed by the positive clamp (marked with a “+”).
Create a cleaning solution using baking soda and water. Mix 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of distilled water in a small bowl to form a thick paste. Stir until all the baking soda is dissolved in the water.
Apply the baking soda paste to the battery connections. Use an old toothbrush or a damp rag to apply the paste onto the corroded areas of the battery. Allow the paste to sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the corrosion.
Remove corrosion deposits with an old butter knife. For heavy deposits, use the sharp edge of a used butter knife to scrape them off. Hold the knife at a 45-degree angle and press it downward along the battery surface. After removing major deposits, use a wire brush or steel wool to clean any remaining residue.
Flush the battery with water after cleaning. Once the baking soda reaction subsides and major debris is removed, rinse the battery thoroughly. Use approximately 2 cups (470 mL) of distilled water, ensuring it covers both the battery and its terminals. Avoid letting the baking soda solution enter the battery vents to prevent damaging the battery’s internal acid.
Dry the terminals using a clean, lint-free cloth. Before reconnecting, ensure the battery and its terminals are dry. Use a clean cloth, free of grease or oil, to wipe the terminals multiple times, achieving complete dryness. Avoid paper towels to prevent residue.
Apply a layer of petroleum jelly on the terminals to block corrosion. With vinyl gloves on, use two fingers to spread a light layer of petroleum jelly over both terminals. This creates a protective barrier against future corrosion. If you don’t have petroleum jelly at home, you can purchase some at a drugstore or pharmacy.
Household Battery Terminal Cleaning
Inspect the battery cradle and battery for corrosion. Open the device's cover to access the battery cradle and inspect for corrosion. Check for cracks and leakage. Mild corrosion appears as black spots, while severe corrosion manifests as a white, ashy deposit around the battery posts. Dispose of any leaking batteries immediately and handle them with skin and eye protection.
Create a cleaning paste using baking soda and water. Mix 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water to form a thick paste. Avoid getting baking soda on other electronic components during the process.
Remove corrosion from battery terminals with a cotton swab. Dip a cotton swab into the baking soda mixture and apply it to the battery connections and terminals. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the baking soda to react with the corrosion. Wear vinyl gloves to protect your skin from contact with the corrosive buildup.
Clean the battery and cradle with distilled water and a cotton swab. After the foaming stops, rinse the inside of the cradle with distilled water using a clean cotton swab. Be cautious not to get water on electrical components. Allow 15–20 minutes for drying.
Reinstall the cleaned batteries and close the cradle. Place the cleaned batteries back into the battery cradle. If there are un-corroded batteries, insert them as well. Close the case securely before using your electronics again.
Items You'll Need
How to Remove Corrosion from a Car Battery Terminal
- Clean cloth
- Water
- Baking soda
- Bowl
- Wrench
- Wire brush or steel wool
- Old butter knife
- Petroleum jelly
How to Clean a Household Battery Terminal
- Water
- Baking soda
- Bowl
- 2-3 cotton swabs
Guidelines
- Detachable battery holders for AA, AAA, C, D, or 9V in gadgets can often be cleaned by immersing in water or a baking soda mix. When not removable, gently use a cotton swab to remove corrosion without removing the holder.
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves, like vinyl, for this task. If exposed to corrosive materials without gloves, promptly rinse off with water.
Precautions
- Exercise caution with water near electronic parts. If cleaning battery terminals risks the device, seek professional help instead.
- Handle batteries safely; their acids or bases can harm eyes and skin. Do not open batteries. Protect yourself from corrosion with gloves and eye wear.
- Treat car batteries with extra caution due to their potential to emit explosive hydrogen gas. Avoid flames and sparks nearby.
