How to store remotes and game controllers

Good storage for remotes and game controllers saves time, protects electronics, and keeps your living space tidy. This practical guide explains principles, specific solutions, cleaning and maintenance tips, and considerations for households with children, pets, or mixed-use lounge areas. Follow these methods to reduce wear and make your devices easy to find and use.

Core principles of remote and controller storage

Accessibility: Keep frequently used items within easy reach; less-used items can be stored out of the way.
Protection: Prevent drops, spills, heat exposure, and scratches - for both the devices and the furniture they rest on.
Organization: Use consistent spots, labels, or colors so family members know where to return items.
Power management: For rechargeable controllers, provide a stable docking station; for removable batteries, remove lithium or alkaline cells if storing long term.
Hygiene: Regular cleaning and disinfection prevent buildup of oils, dust, and pathogens.

Best storage solutions by situation

Couch-arm organizers and remote caddies: Fabric or leather armrest caddies keep remotes within reach without cluttering the coffee table. Choose models with pockets sized for modern controllers and a small zip compartment for cables or adapters.
Tray or shallow bowl on a coffee table: A dedicated tray collects items in one place and defines a landing spot. Use felt or silicone liners to prevent scratches. If you keep controllers on glass, consider protective pads - resources on removing micro scratches from glass table and preventive tips are worth consulting.
Wall-mounted pockets or magnetic mounts: Adhesive fabric pockets or magnetic plates mounted near the TV free the seating area and keep controllers off floors and rugs. Magnetic systems require metal plates or compatible case backs; choose low-profile solutions to avoid interference.
Drawer organizers in a media console: Shallow drawer compartments with foam inserts or dividers are ideal for protecting controllers from dust and accidental spills while keeping them accessible.
Charging docks: For wireless controllers, use manufacturer or third-party docks placed on a stable shelf. Ensure docks have adequate ventilation and place them on non-conductive surfaces to prevent heat build-up.
Open baskets with liners: Woven baskets work well in casual spaces; add a cloth liner that can be removed and washed to reduce lint transfer. Keep baskets elevated on a low shelf to protect from pet activity and floor dirt.
Travel pouches and tech rolls: For occasional use or storage between seasons, padded pouches protect against impact and dust. Remove batteries and include a silica gel packet to control humidity.

Placement and environmental considerations

Where you store devices affects their longevity. Avoid direct heat sources, windows with direct sun, and areas prone to humidity. A common living-room question is why does my fireplace glass get black so fast; if your fireplace emits soot or fine particulates, store electronics away from the hearth and improve ventilation to reduce grime buildup on controllers and remotes.

Protecting furniture and surfaces

Remotes and controllers can scratch delicate finishes. Use soft coasters, silicone pads, or small felt feet under devices. If you own a glass coffee table, a clear protective mat will guard against abrasions; for existing damage, look up specialist advice on removing micro scratches from glass table and use appropriate polishing compounds or professional glass repair services for best results.

Cleaning and maintenance of remotes and controllers

Routine surface cleaning: Power off and remove batteries or unplug. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth to wipe surfaces, avoiding puddles near openings. For tight seams and button creases, use a cotton swab slightly dampened with alcohol and compressed air to dislodge debris.
Deep cleaning: For sticky buttons or heavy grime, consult the device manual for safe disassembly. Keep small parts in labeled containers and photograph steps for reassembly.
Sanitizing shared devices: Use disposable disinfectant wipes compatible with plastics and electronics. Allow full drying time before returning batteries or plugging back in.
Textile and rug interactions: If you place remotes on upholstery or rugs, be mindful of lint and oils. If you ever ask how to clean an area rug that can't be washed, the same principle applies: minimize contact between electronics and fabrics by using trays or armrest organizers and follow dry-cleaning or professional methods for delicate textiles.

Charging habits and battery care

Prefer dedicated chargers: Docking stations prevent tangled cables and encourage returning controllers to charge. Place docks on stable, ventilated shelves and avoid stacking other items on top.
Avoid leaving batteries in unused remotes for long periods; remove alkaline cells if devices will be stored for months to prevent leakage.
For rechargeable batteries, follow manufacturer recommendations: shallow cycles are okay for NiMH, while lithium-ion prefers partial charge storage (around 40–60%) for long-term storage.

Childproofing and pet protection

Keep small parts and batteries out of reach. Use secured cabinets or high shelves for valuable controllers. If pets chew or play with remotes, consider wall mounts or enclosed drawers. For households with toddlers, attach a tether or wrist strap when controllers are in use to reduce drops.

Labeling, inventory, and household habits

Assign a home: Designate one spot for remotes and one for controllers. Reinforce the habit with household signage if needed.
Labeling: Use discreet color dots or a label maker to identify device purpose (TV, soundbar, console). This helps guests and reduces searches.
Inventory: For multiple controllers, keep a simple list near the storage area noting which console each belongs to, and whether batteries are rechargeable or disposable.

Quick checklist: place chargers centrally, protect surfaces with pads, store rarely used items in labeled pouches, remove batteries for long storage, and keep devices away from soot-prone areas near a fireplace.

When space is tight or you're optimizing a rental

Use vertical space: slim wall pockets, floating shelves, or an over-the-side couch organizer maximize floor area. For renters, choose adhesive solutions that remove cleanly and avoid drilling. If you must store controllers in multipurpose furniture, use foam inserts or DIY divider solutions to prevent jostling and contact damage.

Implementing these practices will reduce misplaced remotes, prevent surface damage, extend battery and device life, and keep your living spaces cleaner and more functional.

More tips in the section Lounge Longevity & Aesthetic Upkeep