How to clean Meta Quest 2 lenses quickly and safely

How To
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Here’s how to clean Meta Quest 2 lenses safely and get them looking like new again

The lenses of an Meta Quest 2 which will demonstrate how to clean Meta Quest 2 lenses.
(Image credit: Future)

If you own a Meta Quest 2, odds are you’ve wondered how to clean Meta Quest 2 lenses. No matter how careful you are, the lenses of the best VR headset we've ever tested will still end up marked with fingerprints and smudges after playing some of the best Meta Quest 2 games. At that point, something needs to be done, because the whole experience is ruined by blurry vision. 

Don’t panic. Here, we will guide you through the cleaning process, from the items you need to the best methods. Cleaning Meta Quest 2 lenses really couldn’t be easier and it takes seconds to do, so there’s no reason not to do it. Here’s how to clean Meta Quest 2 lenses.  

How to clean Meta Quest 2 lenses 

What you will need

Optical lens microfiber cloth

Whether you own an Oculus Rift headset or a Meta Quest headset, this method works for both sets of lenses.

Meta (formerly Oculus) states that the best method to clean the lenses involves using a dry optical lens microfiber cloth. That’s it, you don’t use liquids or any chemical cleaners as this can damage the headset and invalidate your warranty. If you don’t have a microfiber cloth, then we recommend the Edison & King Extra Large Microfiber Cleaning Cloth ($9.99, Amazon). 

The lenses of an Meta Quest 2 being cleaned by a microfiber cloth

(Image credit: Future)

Start from the center of the lens and gently wipe in a circular motion towards the outside. Then use a fresh section of the cloth for the second lens. That’s all there is to it.  

How to clean the rest 

While you’re at it, why not give the whole headset a once-over? Again, this is relatively easy to do and will help maintain your Meta VR headset.

You should use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the outside of your headset. Make sure you have a good grip as you do this, and don’t apply any pressure, especially around the sensors if you have a Quest 2. If you need microfiber cleaning cloths, MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths are a good option ($15.99, Amazon). 

The Meta Quest 2 headset being cleaned by a microfiber cloth

(Image credit: Future)

To clean the straps and the foam, you can use non-abrasive anti-bacterial wipes to sanitize. Just be sure not to use alcohol or any abrasive cleaning chemicals as this again can lead to damage. 

If the top strap is visibly discolored on your Meta Quest 2, be it from grease or hair dye, you can give it a deeper clean. First, remove the headstrap completely by releasing the velcro on the top strap, and then by sliding it free from one of the detatched sides. Then wash your headstrap in cold soapy water and rinse, before leaving out to air dry for 24 hours. Do not put it in the dryer. Then once dry, reattach.

For the controllers, the technique is very similar to the straps and foam — you can use a dry microfiber cloth or non-abrasive anti-bacterial wipes. Again, no alcohol or abrasive chemical cleaners. Be sure to clean all over the controllers, including round the back where you grip and in between the buttons. It's also worth investing in one of the best Meta Quest 2 cases to keep them smudge-free when you're not using them.

Katie Mortram
Katie Mortram
Homes Editor

Katie Mortram used to be a Homes Editor for Tom's Guide, where she oversaw everything from kitchen appliances to gardening tools, as well as smart home tech. Specializing in providing expert advice for cleaning and home manintenance, she now works as Household Advice Editor for Good Housekeeping.