If your phone charges slowly, only at certain angles or not at all, lint in the charging port is a common cause. A pocket collects dust, and every plug-in packs it a little tighter.

Before you start

• Switch the phone off. This avoids a short circuit.
• Unplug everything.
• Use a torch and look into the port. You may see grey fluff at the bottom.

What to use

• A wooden or plastic toothpick, or a plastic pick.
• A soft, dry brush, such as a clean, dry, soft toothbrush with the bristles trimmed short.

What never to use

• Metal pins, needles or paper clips. They can scratch or short the contacts and damage the port.
• Water or liquids. Moisture in the port causes corrosion.
• Your mouth. Blowing adds moisture.
• Compressed air, unless your phone’s maker says it is fine. Strong air can push dirt in or damage small parts.

The steps

1. Hold the phone with the port facing down so loose dirt can fall out.
2. Slide the toothpick gently along the back wall of the port and lift out the fluff. Do not press on the flat tongue with the contacts in the middle of a USB-C port.
3. Tap the phone gently against your palm to shake out loose dust.
4. Look with the torch again. Repeat until the port looks clear.
5. Wait a minute, switch the phone on and try the charger.

Check the cable too

A bent or worn plug can cause the same symptoms. Try another cable and adapter. Steps for the next fixes are in why your phone is not charging.

When to stop

If the port is wet, looks bent or burnt, or the phone still will not charge, stop and take it to a service centre. A swollen or hot battery is a safety problem: do not charge it and get it checked. Battery wear is explained in how to check your phone’s battery health.