FAQs
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Shipping FAQ's
Q: Do you ship to Canada?
We can ship any products from this collection to Canada.
Note: The kits that contain our 1UP fluid are classified as dangerous goods (flammable), and incur much higher shipping costs. In this case it is recommended to provide your own isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to use with your 1UPcards. Buyer is responsible for any applicable VAT, duties, import fees, etc.
Please let us know if you have any questions. We're happy to help.
Q: Do you ship overseas? (Outside the contiguous U.S.)
We can ship any products from this collection overseas. (This includes Alaska and Hawaii)
Note: The kits that contain our 1UP fluid are classified as dangerous goods (flammable), and will not ship via airplane. In this case it is recommended to provide your own isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to use with your 1UPcards.
Buyer is responsible for any applicable VAT, duties, import fees, etc.
Please let us know if you have any questions. We're happy to help.
Q: Can you ship the 1UPcard fluid overseas or to Canada?
No. If you place an order outside the contiguous US that contains 1UPcard fluid we will give you the option of a full refund, or a partial refund for just the fluid so you can still get the rest of your goods.
Q: When will my item ship?
Most items ship next business day, at which time you will receive a tracking number. Tracking info may not be available until the next business day and is dependent on the carrier. Most orders shipping to a continental US address arrive in 2 to 3 business days.
Q: I received a notification that my order was delivered but I don't have it. What do I do?
- Start by verifying your shipping address. (It can be found in your original order confirmation.)
- The delivery confirmation originates from the parcel carrier and is automated. Unfortunately, it's not always 100% accurate. In most cases we see that the package arrives in the next few days.
- Please check with neighbors or any household members to see if it ended up with somebody else by mistake.
- If you still haven't received your package within 3 more business days of your delivery confirmation, please contact us.
General FAQ's
Q: Do you have wholesale pricing?
Yes! We are always interested in working with game shops to carry the 1UPcard product line. Many game shops also use 1UPcards to batch clean the games that they sell in their stores. If you have a game shop and would like to become a reseller, please get in touch.
Q: Some of my games don’t start up or will work for a few minutes and then lock up. Does that sound like the kind of issue that is typically resolved with your product?
A healthy retro gaming setup consists of reliable games and a reliable console. If you have limited success after cleaning the games, the console may also be to blame. We offer console cleaners here.
Q: I cleaned my games and console, but the equipment still isn't performing, what now?
1UPcard products are like a toothbrush for your games and consoles. However, sometimes you may need an oral surgeon... A lot of the equipment our products are used on is over 30 years old. The reach of our products may not be what your equipment needs. If you have used our products according to our guidelines but your equipment still doesn't work, we recommend searching for game or console repair services online or in your area. We recommend contacting NES Matt's Old School Video Game Repair, LLC
for repair: https://nesmatt.com/.
Q: Are you planning on making a Turbo Grafx 16 cleaning kit for the HuCard Slot inside the console?
A Turbo Grafx 16 cleaning kit is on our list to make eventually. Subscribe to our newsletter and we will update you.
Q: Are you planning on making cleaner for the the controller pak slot on the Nintendo 64 controllers?
A cleaner for the the controller pak slot on the Nintendo 64 controllers is now available for purchase here.
Our 1UPcard Mini cartridge cleaners can be used to clean the N64 controller pak, but will not fit in the slot on the controller.
Q: Can you make a cleaner for Nintendo DS?
We would love to! They are a little more intricate than other cleaners, but we hope to offer it eventually. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated.
Q: Do you plan on adding a Sega Master System console cleaner?
We now offer a Master System console cleaner here!
Q: Could you could make a Famicom cart cleaner?
We now offer a Famicom console cleaner here!
Q: How do I know what 1UPcard products are compatible with my console?
You can shop by console here. Don't see your console listed? You can subscribe to our newsletter and be informed of new product releases.
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1UPcard Game Cartridge Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How many games can I clean with one card?
It depends.
When using the 1UPcard for routine maintenance on games in decent condition it can last for 150+ uses. When using the 1UPcard to clean games you just picked up from a garage sale that have been in a dingy basement for thirty years, you can expect to clean at least 50 games with one card. If you're not satisfied, we'll give your money back.
The fluid pad actually draws the dirt and corrosion into the pad, so even when it starts looking rough and worn, it still effectively cleans and polishes the contacts. The pad, made of synthetic poly felt, can be rinsed out with soap and water when it becomes visibly dirty.
Note: When batch cleaning, you should be able to clean at least 10 cartridges before having to re-moisten the fluid pad. The kit provides more than 100 applications of cleaning fluid.
Read the reviews to see what other retrogamers have said about using the 1UPcard. Also, check out the 1UPcard vs Qtip comparison.
Q: What is the fluid made of?
Pharmaceutical grade 99% isopropyl alcohol. It comes in an easy to dispense 1 ounce controlled dropper bottle.
Q: On the back of the NES cartridges it says to NOT clean with alcohol on the sticker. What gives?
Yes it is quite the conundrum. We think for Nintendo that warning was more of a "cover your tail" statement, but time would reveal that using a high percentage alcohol is actually the best thing to use. (our fluid is 99% isopropyl alcohol) In fact, the officially licensed cleaning kits that Nintendo themselves sold in the 90's to be used on their own products came with alcohol!
Q: How much fluid should I use?
There's really not a right or wrong answer to this. You do want the pad to be wet. We usually zig-zag fluid across the pad. It's not really possible to use too much, since you will be wiping it with the "dry" side afterwards, and the alcohol tends to evaporate quickly. You can waft the game to speed up drying if it looks wet, just make sure it is dry before inserting into console. When batch cleaning, you should be able to clean at least 10 cartridges before having to re-moisten the fluid pad. The kit provides more than 100 applications of cleaning fluid.
Q: Do I need to let the contacts dry before playing?
Just waft the cartridge for a few moments to dry the contacts. Don't blow into it! Blowing introduces additional moisture to your game which leads to more corrosion.
Q: Can I use the fluid on 1UPcard console cleaners?
No. Do not use solvents including isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on a 1Upcard console cleaner. Solvents will cause premature wear.
Q: What games does it work on?
Works with Atari, Nintendo, Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, N64 and others.
Q: Do I need to open up my game cartridges with specialty tools and clean the motherboard?
Nope. All you need is an effective cleaner for your game contacts.
Q: Many tutorials on Youtube recommend several different chemicals to clean games. Which one is the best?
The best product is 99% isopropyl alcohol. We've provided it in an easy to use, controlled dropper tip bottle. Use the 1UPcard for safe, effective cleaning every time you want to relive vintage video gaming magic.
If you have some really gnarly cartridges, open them up and instead of Brasso, use Brite-Boy with a cloth. After that, use 1UPcards with the fluid to clean the contacts. We don’t recommend using Brasso or Brite-Boy with 1UPcards. It will gum them up pretty quickly. You can use our fluid over and over and it won’t affect the contacts, but only use Brasso or Brite-Boy one time, because it is more abrasive, but it can really help with nasty games. Brasso and Brite-Boy are like oral surgery, whereas 1UPcards are like a toothbrush. :-)
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1UPcard NES Console Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How do you use the NES Console Cleaner?
Fully insert and remove the console cleaner several times. Do not use with liquid or store in the console.
Q: How many times can I use the NES console cleaner?
There is no set number of uses, as the condition of the console it is being used on will cause it to wear faster or slower. However, the console cleaner can be used repeatedly. The best practice is to clean it after use using a 1UPcard. Moisten the 1UPcard with WATER only. (Do not use solvents including isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on your console cleaner. Solvents will cause premature wear.) Using a 1UPcard on the cleaning material will help remove grime and extend the life of the console cleaner. Even if there is still visible corrosion on the cleaner, it will continue to clean and buff the pin connector. The pink material is a high resolution polishing film. It is soft enough to protect the metal of the contacts, and abrasive enough to remove corrosion.
Q: Can I use the console cleaner on my Retro-Bit®, Retron 3, 4, 5, etc.?
Definitely.
Q: Do you sell replacement inserts?
Those can be found here.
Q: How does it clean the connectors?
The Console Cleaner uses a micro-abrasive material. It will remove corrosion from the contacts but not any metal.
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1UPcard N64 Console Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How do you use the N64 Console Cleaner?
Fully insert and remove the console cleaner several times. Do not use with liquid or store in the console.
Q: How many times can I use the N64 console cleaner?
There is no set number of uses, as the condition of the console it is being used on will cause it to wear faster or slower. However, the console cleaner can be used repeatedly. The best practice is to clean it after use using a 1UPcard. Moisten the 1UPcard with WATER only. (Do not use solvents including isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on your console cleaner. Solvents will cause premature wear.) Using a 1UPcard on the cleaning material will help remove grime and extend the life of the console cleaner. Even if there is still visible corrosion on the cleaner, it will continue to clean and buff the pin connector. The pink material is a high resolution polishing film. It is soft enough to protect the metal of the contacts, and abrasive enough to remove corrosion.
Q: Do you sell replacement inserts?
Those can be found here.
Q: How does it clean the connectors?
The Console Cleaner uses a micro-abrasive material. It will remove corrosion from the contacts but not any metal.
Q: Are you planning on making cleaner for the the controller pak slot on the Nintendo 64 controllers?
We now offer a N64 controller pak slot cleaner here!
Our 1UPcard Mini cartridge cleaners can be used to clean the N64 controller pak, but will not fit in the slot on the controller.
Q: Can it be used with the Japanese N64?
Yes, it will work for the Japanese version.
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1UPcard Game Boy Console Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How do you use the Game Boy Console Cleaner?
Fully insert and remove the console cleaner several times. Do not use with liquid or store in the console.
Q: How many times can I use the Game Boy console cleaner?
There is no set number of uses, as the condition of the console it is being used on will cause it to wear faster or slower. The best practice is to clean it after use using a 1UPcard Mini. Moisten the 1UPcard with WATER only. (Do not use solvents including isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on your console cleaner. Solvents will cause premature wear.) Using a 1UPcard on the cleaning material will help remove grime and extend the life of the console cleaner. Even if there is still visible corrosion on the cleaner, it will continue to clean and buff the pin connector. The pink material is a high resolution polishing film. It is soft enough to protect the metal of the contacts, and abrasive enough to remove corrosion.
Q: What systems is the Game Boy Console Cleaner compatible with?
It is compatible with Game Boy™, Game Boy Color™ and Evercade® VS home console.
It is not compatible with Nintendo DS.
This also works perfectly for the Super Game Boy. (The Super Game Boy is a peripheral that allows Game Boy cartridges to be played on a Super Nintendo Entertainment System console) and the Game Boy Player (The Game Boy Player is a peripheral that allows Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance cartridges to be played on a Nintendo GameCube console). The 1UPcard Game Boy Console cleaner will clean the Super Game Boy port that accepts the Game Boy cartridge (and our mini 1UPcards and fluid will clean the pin connectors on the bottom of the Super Game Boy adapter cartridge.)
Q: Do you sell replacement inserts?
Those can be found here.
Q: How does it clean the connectors?
The Console Cleaner uses a micro-abrasive material. It will remove corrosion from the contacts but not any metal.
Q: Can the Gameboy cleaner cartridge be used on the Analog Pocket like it can for the gb/gbc?
Yes, it can be used on the Analog Pocket.
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1UPcard SNES Console Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How do you use the SNES Console Cleaner?
Fully insert and remove the console cleaner several times. Do not use with liquid or store in the console.
Q: How many times can I use the SNES console cleaner?
There is no set number of uses, as the condition of the console it is being used on will cause it to wear faster or slower. However, the console cleaner can be used repeatedly. The best practice is to clean it after use using a 1UPcard. Moisten the 1UPcard with WATER only. (Do not use solvents including isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on your console cleaner. Solvents will cause premature wear.) Using a 1UPcard on the cleaning material will help remove grime and extend the life of the console cleaner. Even if there is still visible corrosion on the cleaner, it will continue to clean and buff the pin connector. The pink material is a high resolution polishing film. It is soft enough to protect the metal of the contacts, and abrasive enough to remove corrosion.
Q: Can I use the console cleaner on my Retro-Bit®, Retron 3, 4, 5, etc.?
Definitely.
Q: Is it also compatible with Super Game Boy and Game Genie?
Yep.
Q: Do you sell replacement inserts?
Those can be found here.
Q: How does it clean the connectors?
The Console Cleaner uses a micro-abrasive material. It will remove corrosion from the contacts but not any metal.
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1UPcard SEGA Console Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How do you use the SEGA Console Cleaner?
Fully insert and remove the console cleaner several times. Do not use with liquid or store in the console.
Q: How many times can I use the SEGA console cleaner?
There is no set number of uses, as the condition of the console it is being used on will cause it to wear faster or slower. However, the console cleaner can be used repeatedly. The best practice is to clean it after use using a 1UPcard. Moisten the 1UPcard with WATER only. (Do not use solvents including isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on your console cleaner. Solvents will cause premature wear.) Using a 1UPcard on the cleaning material will help remove grime and extend the life of the console cleaner. Even if there is still visible corrosion on the cleaner, it will continue to clean and buff the pin connector. The pink material is a high resolution polishing film. It is soft enough to protect the metal of the contacts, and abrasive enough to remove corrosion.
Q: Can I use the console cleaner on my Retro-Bit®, Retron 3, 4, 5, etc.?
Definitely.
Q: Does the Sega Genesis Console Cleaner work on the 32X as well?
It sure does.
Q: How does it clean the connectors?
The Console Cleaner uses a micro-abrasive material. It will remove corrosion from the contacts but not any metal.
Q: Do you sell replacement inserts?
Those can be found here.
Q: Are you planning on making a Sega Saturn expansion slot cleaner?
It's on our list but demand is low. Sign up for product release updates here.
1UPcard Atari 2600 Console Cleaner FAQ's
Q: How do you use the Atari 2600 Console Cleaner?
Fully insert and remove the console cleaner several times. Do not use with liquid or store in the console.
Q: Is this compatible with Atari 7800?
It is compatible but it will not clean all of the pins, just most of them. You can see the comparison photo below.
Q: Is this compatible with Atari 2600+ and 7800+?
It is compatible with the Atari 2600+ and will clean all the pins. It is compatible with the 7800+ but will not clean all of the pins, just most of them.
Read more reviews from 1UPcard users here
