
As an avid VR gamer, you know how intense games like Half-Life Alyx, Superhot VR, Skyrim VR and Beat Saber can get. All that swinging, dodging, and movement leads to a sweaty, grimy headset and controllers over time. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we show you how you can clean your Meta Quest 3.
Gather Your Supplies
Before we dive in, make sure you have these items on hand:
- Two microfiber cloths – one for wetting and one dry (the pictured VR Cover cloth is no longer available at our store)
- Alcohol-free, fragrance-free, antibacterial wipes
- Soft brush like those used on camera lenses or for makeup
- Mild, unscented liquid soap
- Toothbrush
- Masking tape
- A thin cardboard strip and a thin plastic card like a gift card or membership card
- Water, preferably distilled for a streak-free finish after wiping down
Cleaning the Headset
Let’s prep the headset for cleaning! Start by removing the facial interface. Simply pull gently on the top corners first, then the bottom part until it pops free. Detaching the head strap is easy too – on each head strap arm, apply gentle downward pressure to release it from the headset arms.
Before wiping anything down, use the soft brush to gently sweep away any loose debris from both the inside and outside of the headset, paying special attention to those tricky corners. This prevents trapped grit from scratching the surfaces later.
Now you can wipe down the headset, but be sure to avoid the lenses for now. Use either antibacterial wipes or a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with distilled water.
Finally, let’s tackle those hard-to-reach crevices that run along the edges of the headset. Grab your thin cardboard or plastic card and carefully use the corner to pry out any accumulated dirt.

Cleaning the Lenses
- Dust Removal: Begin by using the soft brush to gently remove any loose dust particles on the lenses.
- Wiping the Lenses: Next, use a completely dry microfiber cloth to wipe the lenses clean. Start from the center of the lens and work your way outwards in a circular motion.
- Removing Stubborn Smudges: If a stubborn smudge persists, lightly dampen a small section of the microfiber cloth with distilled water. Use minimal moisture. Gently wipe the smudge away with the moistened area.
- Final Cleaning: Once the smudge is removed, use the dry microfiber cloth to wipe the entire lens clean.
- Cleaning Sensors: Finally, use the dry microfiber cloth to clean the exterior cameras and sensors.
Cleaning the Controllers
First, remove the batteries, and using the antibacterial wipes, wipe down the battery compartments, taking care to avoid the metal contacts to prevent rusting. Then, thoroughly clean the controller face, triggers, buttons, thumbsticks, wrist straps and all those nooks and crannies where gunk hides.
For narrow seams, insert the cardboard strip to flick out caked-on grime.
Cleaning the VR Cover and Quest 3 Facial Interface
- VR Cover: If you have a VR Cover for your Meta Quest 3, remove it from the facial interface. Wash the cover by hand using cold water and mild soap. Let it air dry completely before reattaching it.
- Stock Facial Interface: For the stock foam interface, a microfiber cloth or antibacterial wipes will suffice for a light cleaning. Use masking tape to remove any stubborn lint. For a deeper clean, dampen your microfiber cloth with mild soap solution. This helps break down oil residue left behind on the foam.
Important: Avoid soaking the interface, as the inner sponge can deteriorate over time. After cleaning with soap, wipe it down again with just water to remove soap residue.
Cleaning the Head Strap
The head strap can also be cleaned with antibacterial wipes. For tougher stains, dip a toothbrush in a mild soap solution and gently scrub the affected area. Wipe clean with a dry cloth and allow the head strap to dry completely before using your headset again.
And there you have it, a fresh, hygienic Meta Quest 3, ready for your next gaming session! Clean regularly to keep your beloved VR headset in tip-top shape.
Buy the VR Cover for Meta Quest 3 and other accessories from our regional online stores:
- North America Store
- Europe Store
- Worldwide Store (other destinations)
Get skin-friendly, antibacterial cleaning wipes here.