How to Clean and Maintain Legrand adorne® Switches with Microban®: Care Tips for Lasting Shine

Legrand's adorne® collection combines sleek, modern design with advanced antimicrobial technology to keep your switches and outlets cleaner between regular cleanings. The Microban® additive integrated into the wall plates and devices actively inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew on the surface. However, even the best antimicrobial protection needs proper care to maintain its effectiveness and preserve the glossy finish.

In this guide, you'll learn how to safely clean your adorne® switches, wall plates, and outlets without damaging the Microban® properties or the delicate surfaces. We'll cover the best cleaning solutions, tools, and techniques to keep your electrical devices looking like new for years.

Why Microban® Makes Cleaning Different

Microban® is an antimicrobial additive that is incorporated into the plastic during manufacturing. It does not wear off or wash away, but it can be degraded by harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods. The technology works continuously to reduce the microbial load on the surface, but it does not replace regular cleaning – it supplements it. For best results, you should still wipe down your switches periodically, especially in high-touch areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.

When you clean adorne® devices, you are not just removing dirt and grime – you are also ensuring that the Microban® remains effective. Using the wrong cleaner can create a residue that blocks the antimicrobial action or even damage the plastic, leading to discoloration or loss of gloss.

• Microban® is embedded in the device, not a coating – so it won't wash off.
• Avoid bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners – they can degrade the plastic and Microban®.
• Regular gentle cleaning preserves both appearance and antimicrobial function.

What You Need to Clean adorne® Switches and Wall Plates

Cleaning your adorne® devices is simple and requires only a few household items. You'll need a soft microfiber cloth (avoid paper towels or rough sponges), mild dish soap or a gentle all-purpose cleaner (pH-neutral), and distilled or tap water. For stubborn smudges, isopropyl alcohol diluted to 70% can be used sparingly, but always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Never use scouring pads, bleach-based sprays, or any product containing ammonia. These can scratch the surface, cause yellowing, or strip the Microban® effectiveness. Also avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the switch or outlet – always spray onto the cloth first to prevent liquid from seeping into the electrical components.

• Soft microfiber cloth – no paper towels or abrasive pads.
• Mild, pH-neutral cleaner or mild dish soap.
• 70% isopropyl alcohol for tough spots (use sparingly).
• Never spray directly onto the device – spray cloth first.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Turn off power to the circuit at the breaker box before cleaning around switches and outlets. While you don't need to remove the wall plate, it's safer to eliminate any risk of electrical shock. If you prefer to clean with power on, ensure the cloth is only damp, not wet.

Dampen your microfiber cloth with your chosen cleaning solution – it should be barely moist, not dripping. Wipe the wall plate and switch surface gently, using light pressure. For the adorne® Locator Light or any illuminated switch, be careful around the light guide area. Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe again to remove any soap residue. Finally, dry with a separate dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and restore shine.

• Turn off power at the breaker for maximum safety.
• Use a barely damp cloth – never wet.
• Rinse with clean water to remove all cleaner residue.
• Dry immediately with a clean microfiber cloth.

Maintaining the Glossy Finish of adorne® Wall Plates

The adorne® line is known for its high-gloss, scratch-resistant finish. To keep it looking its best, avoid using any wax or polish – these can leave a film that attracts dust and may interfere with Microban®. Instead, simply follow the cleaning steps above. For the adorne® Gloss White 1-Gang Screwless Wall Plate with Microban®, a gentle wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough to restore its luster.

If you notice fine scratches over time, they are often only visible in certain lighting and do not affect performance. Avoid using abrasive polishes or rubbing compounds, as they can remove the gloss layer. For deep cleaning, you can remove the wall plate by unscrewing it gently, then clean the plate separately and wipe the device behind it.

• No wax or polish – they attract dust and can dull the finish.
• For deep cleaning, remove the wall plate carefully.
• Minor scratches are cosmetic and do not affect Microban®.

Cleaning Around USB Outlets and Specialty Devices

The adorne® collection includes USB charging outlets like the 3.1A adorne® USB Outlet, Type A, Module, White. These devices have small openings where dust and debris can accumulate. Use a dry, soft-bristled brush (like a clean makeup brush or a new paintbrush) to gently dislodge dust from the USB port area. Then follow with a damp cloth wipe as described above. Never insert anything metal or wet into the USB ports.

For dimmers, such as the radiant® LED DIMMER 250W SP/3W TRI COLOR, the slider or rocker mechanism can collect dirt. Clean the faceplate as usual, but avoid getting moisture into the slider track. A dry cotton swab can be used to gently clean the edges of the dimmer paddle.

• Use a dry brush to clean USB ports – never insert anything wet.
• For dimmers, use a cotton swab to clean slider edges.
• Avoid moisture near any openings or moving parts.

How Often Should You Clean adorne® Devices?

High-touch areas like light switches in kitchens, bathrooms, and near entry doors should be cleaned weekly or bi-weekly. In lower-traffic areas, monthly cleaning is sufficient. The Microban® technology provides continuous protection between cleanings, but visible dirt and fingerprints should be addressed promptly to maintain appearance.

If you have children or pets, you may want to clean more frequently. The antimicrobial properties are not a substitute for cleaning but work alongside it. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and avoid over-wetting the devices.

• High-touch areas: clean weekly or bi-weekly.
• Low-traffic areas: clean monthly.
• Microban® works between cleanings – but visible dirt should be removed.

By following these simple care tips, you can keep your Legrand adorne® switches and outlets looking pristine and functioning perfectly for years. The Microban® antimicrobial technology gives you peace of mind, but gentle cleaning ensures it continues to work as intended. For a complete set of matching devices, explore the adorne® collection, including the adorne® Locator Light and the adorne® Gloss White 1-Gang Screwless Wall Plate with Microban®.