I recently got my flashlights out that were stored and realized I left the batteries in and they were corroded beyond belief I a

[csdillon]

I recently got my flashlights out that were stored and realized I left the batteries in and they were corroded beyond belief I actually had to use a knife to get them out is there any way to clean the flashlights to get the corrosion out so they can be used again?

[AMM0]

An old toothbrush and some white vinegar will work on the really bad corroded areas. Dry it off really well and clean it the best you can. If there's any remaining residue, some baking soda and a little bit of water will take care of the rest. Dry it off again and give it a shot. If it isn't corroded all the way through, it should be work properly with no trouble at all.

[Smitty18]

I asked my dad and he said the exact same thing AMMo suggested.

[ff23]

White vinegar does work, and so does baking soda. The corrosion is becuase of the battery acid and white vinegar is also an acid and baking soda is on the opposite end of the PH scale-it is a base. Which ever you use flush with plenty of distilled water after ( under a dollar for a gallon jug) Auto parts stores sell electronics cleaner in a spray can which I have used with great success. Spray, let soak, drain repeat 3 times.For heavy corrosion inside on contacts, super glue sandpaper to a pencil or dowel rod and put light in a vise or clamp and rub the dowel rod/pencil between your palms rapidly(like trying to start a friction fire) then rinse with cleaner.

[nativeoutlaw922]

Try some Coke soda. Work just as well as vinegar.