ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs — How to Clean Devices Effectively

Learn how to clean devices in ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs with our step-by-step guide, including tools, techniques, and common mistakes.

Overview

Cleaning is the first and most frequent task in ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs. Before you can diagnose, solder, or reassemble any device, you need to remove dust and grime from its components. This guide walks you through the cleaning process from start to finish, including how to spot dirty parts, use the cleaning tools correctly, and avoid the UI frustrations that many players report.

Requirements: What You Need Before Cleaning

Before you start cleaning in ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs, make sure you have:

Item	Purpose
Cleaning brush	The primary tool for removing dust from components
Cleaning solution (mug/cup)	Used to dip or rinse parts that need deeper cleaning
Workbench with clear space	Gives you room to inspect and clean multiple components
Patient mouse hand	The game resets mouse position after actions, so you'll be moving your physical mouse frequently

The game does not require you to unlock cleaning tools — they are available from the start of each repair job.

How to Clean in ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs

Step 1: Inspect the Device

Examine the device on your workbench. Look for visible dust, grime, or discoloration on components. Dust is almost always present on incoming devices, so check every part before you begin repairs.

Pro tip: Click on components on the table to see if they need cleaning. If the game highlights a part as dirty, it's time to clean it.

Step 2: Select the Cleaning Tool

Switch to the cleaning brush from your available tools. The brush is your primary tool for removing surface dust from circuit boards, chips, and other components.

Step 3: Brush the Dirty Components

Click on the dirty component with the brush selected. The game will automatically brush the part. You may need to brush the same component multiple times if it's heavily soiled.

Step 4: Use the Cleaning Solution for Stubborn Grime

Some components are too dirty for brushing alone. When you encounter heavy buildup:

Pick up the dirty part
Move it to the cleaning solution (the mug of cleaning fluid in the corner of your screen)
Dip the part in the solution
Remove it and continue cleaning

Note: This step is where many players find the UI awkward. The cleaning solution is positioned in the corner of the screen, away from your main work area, so you'll need to move parts across the screen to clean them.

Step 5: Verify the Component is Clean

After cleaning, check the component again. A clean part should no longer show dust or grime. If it still looks dirty, repeat the brushing or dipping process.

Step 6: Move On to the Next Component

Once a component is clean, move to the next dirty part. Continue until the entire device is dust-free before starting any soldering or other repair work.

Common Cleaning Mistakes

1. Skipping the Inspection Phase

Many players jump straight into cleaning without inspecting the device first. This leads to missed dirty components that cause problems later in the repair process.

2. Overlooking Components That Need Dipping

Some parts require the cleaning solution, not just brushing. If you're brushing and the dust doesn't come off, try the solution instead.

3. Cleaning Out of Order

Clean components in a logical order — from the outside in, or from the most visible parts to the least. This prevents you from re-dirtying already cleaned parts.

4. Confusing the Cleaning UI

Player reports from the Steam community indicate that the cleaning interface can be confusing. The cleaning solution is in the corner of the screen, and some players find this unintuitive. To avoid frustration:

Remember that the solution is always in the same corner spot
Plan your cleaning path so you're not constantly moving parts back and forth
Keep your mouse hand comfortable — the game resets mouse position after actions, so you'll need to physically reposition your mouse frequently

5. Not Switching Back to Cleaning Tools

Players report that the game doesn't automatically switch back to the cleaning tool after using other tools like the soldering iron. Make sure you manually switch back to the brush before attempting to clean more components.

Advanced Cleaning Tips

Optimize Your Workflow

Once you understand the cleaning mechanics, you can optimize your workflow:

Clean in batches: Instead of cleaning one component and immediately repairing it, clean all components first. This minimizes tool switching.
Group parts near the solution: If you have multiple parts that need dipping, collect them together before moving to the cleaning solution corner.
Develop a consistent pattern: Always inspect → brush → dip (if needed) → verify. This prevents missed spots.

Work Around Mouse Resets

The game resets your mouse position after certain actions, which can be annoying during extended play sessions (as noted in community discussions). To work around this:

Keep your mouse movements deliberate and efficient
Expect the reset and position your hand accordingly
Take breaks during long cleaning sessions to avoid hand fatigue

Use the Cleaning Phase as a Diagnostic Tool

Cleaning isn't just preparation — it's also diagnostic. While cleaning, you can spot:

Corroded components that need replacement
Loose connections that may need re-soldering
Physical damage that wasn't visible under dust

Use the cleaning phase to build a mental map of the device's condition before you start repairs.

Understand the Developer's Design Choice

The cleaning UI placement (with the solution in the corner) is a deliberate design choice. While some players find it awkward, others appreciate that it keeps the workbench clear for tools and components. Rather than fighting the design, adapt your workflow to work with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a component needs cleaning?

Click on components on the table. If the game indicates the part is dirty (typically by visual dust or grime), it needs cleaning. When in doubt, clean everything — dust is always present on incoming devices.

Do I need to clean every device in ReStory?

Yes. Almost every repair job requires cleaning before you can proceed with other repair steps. Cleaning is a core mechanic, not an optional step.

Can I skip cleaning and go straight to soldering?

No. The game requires you to clean components before you can effectively work on them. Attempting to solder or repair dirty components will either fail or result in poor outcomes.

Is the cleaning solution unlimited?

The cleaning solution in the mug is reusable. You don't need to worry about running out — just keep using it for any component that needs deeper cleaning.

Looking for more ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs help? Check out these guides:

Sources

Steam Community Discussion: The cleaning ui / interaction