How to Clean and Sanitize Electronic Dart Machines

How to Clean and Sanitize Electronic Dart Machines

Why regular cleaning matters for your electronic dart machine

Electronic dart machines in commercial settings — such as bars, restaurants, KTV rooms, clubs, and family leisure spaces — are high‑touch entertainment hubs. Regular cleaning and sanitization reduce the spread of germs, extend the life of sensitive electronic components, preserve accurate sensor performance, and keep customers coming back. If you operate or manage Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines, a consistent cleaning regimen protects your investment and supports a safe, attractive venue that boosts footfall and revenue.

Understand the components of an electronic dart machine

Before you begin cleaning, identify the key parts of your electronic dart machine to target your efforts correctly: the playboard/bullseye area (soft‑tip board), dartboard surround and cabinet, coin acceptor and bill validator, touch screens or physical buttons, LED displays, dart trays and holder areas, darts (tips and flights), and any plastic or metal framing. Disconnect power and remove batteries where applicable before cleaning to avoid damage and for safety.

Daily cleaning checklist for commercial settings

For venues with steady traffic, perform a quick daily clean to remove visible dirt and reduce microbial load. This helps maintain appearance and minimizes wear on sensors and display panels.

• Unplug the machine and turn off power to avoid electrical hazards.
• Wipe high‑touch surfaces (buttons, touch screens, coin slot surround, scoring buttons, dart tray) with an EPA‑registered disinfectant wipe or a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe. Allow surfaces to air dry.
• Brush or use compressed air to remove dust and dart fragments from board seams and sensor areas. Avoid pressing directly into sensors.
• Collect and sanitize darts between players by wiping shafts and flights with alcohol wipes—store in a clean holder.
• Empty and clean coin trays and service access areas as needed; sanitize the exterior surfaces.

Weekly maintenance and sanitation routine

In addition to daily steps, schedule a weekly maintenance session to inspect sensors, tighten loose fittings, and perform more thorough cleaning of non‑electronic surfaces.

• Inspect soft‑tip segments for wear and replace damaged sections per manufacturer guidance.
• Remove detachable surrounds, scorecards, or protective films and clean them with mild detergent and water; rinse and dry completely before reinstalling.
• Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol for plastic or metal surfaces; avoid oversaturating seams and electronic ports.
• Check ventilation openings and fans; clear dust with low‑pressure compressed air.
• Test all player buttons, coin acceptors, and displays to ensure sensors and switches respond correctly after cleaning.

Deep cleaning (monthly or quarterly) for durability and hygiene

Every month or quarter (depending on usage), do a deeper service: remove the board where possible, inspect internal wiring and sensors, and clean internal surfaces. For commercial Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines, scheduled deep cleans prevent long‑term deterioration and can be done during low‑traffic hours or by a certified technician.

• Consult the machine manual before disassembly. If unsure, hire a trained technician to avoid voiding warranties.
• Remove the playboard and vacuum inside the cabinet, then wipe with a lightly damp cloth and 70% isopropyl alcohol for non‑porous parts. Never pour liquid directly into the cabinet.
• Inspect and, if needed, recalibrate score sensors and displays following manufacturer procedures.
• Replace consumable items such as soft‑tip segments, light diffusers, or worn trays.

Which cleaners are safe for electronic dart machine components?

Choosing the right cleaning agent is essential: some disinfectants corrode plastics and contacts, while others are safe for screens and sensor areas. The following table summarizes common options and their recommended uses for an electronic dart machine.

Sources for the table recommendations include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) List N, and manufacturer electronics guidance (see sources at the end).

Step-by-step: Safely sanitizing a Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines unit

Follow this practical workflow each time you clean the machine.

1. Power down and unplug. Remove darts and batteries.
2. Remove loose debris: use a soft brush and low‑pressure compressed air to clear dart fragments and dust.
3. Clean non‑electronic parts (surrounds, trays) with mild soap and water. Dry fully.
4. Wipe touchscreens and plastic surfaces with a microfiber cloth dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol or an EPA‑registered wipe. Do not apply liquids directly to screens or into seams.
5. Sanitize darts: soak metal shafts (if applicable) in a 70% alcohol solution briefly; wipe flights and soft tips with alcohol wipes and let air dry.
6. Sanitize high‑touch fixtures such as coin mechanisms, handle grips, and button panels. For coin acceptors, clean exterior only and use canned air for internal dusting; avoid liquids inside mechanisms.
7. Reassemble only after all components are fully dry. Reconnect power and test functionality.

Special tips for touchscreens and sensors

Touchscreens and sensors are critical to gameplay. Use only recommended cleaners (e.g., 70% isopropyl alcohol) and soft microfiber cloths. Avoid ammonia, bleach, abrasive pads, and excessive moisture. If the machine has removable protective films, replace them periodically to protect the screen surface and make cleaning easier.

Hygiene practices for operators and venues

Cleaning the machine is only part of the hygiene picture. Train staff to regularly sanitize darts between players, enforce hand hygiene, and post visible cleaning schedules so patrons see your commitment to safety. For tournaments or leagues, consider providing disinfectant wipes near the machine and rotating shared darts to reduce cross‑contact.

When to call professional service

If you encounter persistent sensor errors, visible corrosion, water ingress, or are unsure how to disassemble the unit, contact a certified technician. Routine manufacturer maintenance (quarterly or semiannually) will reduce downtime and protect warranty coverage. For Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines, consult the product manual or contact Joy Power support for authorized service partners.

Balancing sanitization with warranty and longevity

Harsh chemicals and aggressive cleaning methods can void warranties or degrade finishes. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance. For electronics, Apple and other major manufacturers explicitly recommend 70% isopropyl alcohol for gently disinfecting devices — a guideline you can safely adapt for most machine components. When in doubt, use milder products and seek approval from the supplier (Joy Power) to ensure you don't void coverage.

Brand advantages: Why choose Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines for commercial venues

Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines by Joy Power are designed for busy commercial environments. Key advantages include:

• Versatility: suitable for bars, restaurants, KTVs, sports shops, clubs, and family leisure spaces.
• Durability: robust cabinets and user‑friendly components that stand up to frequent play and routine cleaning.
• Customer engagement: built‑in tournament features that help venues attract customers and increase revenue through repeat visits and events.
• Serviceability: accessible components and manufacturer support make regular maintenance and deep cleaning straightforward.

These features, combined with a recommended cleaning program, help venues keep machines hygienic, operational, and profitable.

FAQs — Cleaning and Sanitizing Electronic Dart Machines

Q: Can I spray disinfectant directly onto the dart machine?
A: No. Never spray liquids directly onto electronics. Apply disinfectant to a microfiber cloth or use disinfectant wipes, then wipe surfaces. Avoid seams and ports.

Q: Is 70% isopropyl alcohol safe for the scoreboard and sensors?
A: Yes for most plastic and glass surfaces when used sparingly on a cloth. Do not saturate connectors, and avoid prolonged contact with painted or printed labels.

Q: How often should I deep clean the playboard on a busy bar machine?
A: Monthly deep cleans are recommended for heavy use; quarterly may suffice for lower traffic. Adjust frequency based on visible wear and customer volume.

Q: Are UV‑C sanitizers a good option?
A: UV‑C can be a supplemental tool but requires correct dosing and safe operation. It should not replace physical cleaning and EPA‑registered disinfectants. Avoid exposing staff or patrons to UV‑C light.

Q: How should I clean shared darts?
A: Wipe shafts and flights with alcohol wipes between uses. Consider maintaining multiple dart sets to rotate and sanitize between players during busy periods.

Contact sales / view product

If you manage a bar or entertainment venue and want a durable, easy‑to‑maintain solution, explore Dart Machines Bar Dart Machines by Joy Power. For product details, pricing, or service schedules, contact our sales team or request a quote today — keep your venue safe, hygienic, and profitable.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.
• CDC — Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) — List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2
• EPA — What you should know about surface disinfecting products and UV light: https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/what-you-should-know-about-surface-disinfecting-products-and-uv-light
• Apple Support — How to clean your Apple products: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204172 (guidance on using 70% isopropyl alcohol for electronics)