Unplug it first, then soap and water.

Yes, just wipe them down with a damp cloth and a little dish soap. You don’t need special cleaner or a deep-cleaning ritual.

Extension cords get grimy from garage floors, workshop dust, or cooking grease. The fix is simple: unplug the cord from both ends, mix a tiny drop of dish soap with water, dampen a cloth (not dripping), and wipe the cord clean. For greasy spots, scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse the cloth and wipe again with plain water to remove soap residue. Let the cord dry completely before rolling it up or plugging it in — overnight is fine.

Don’t submerge the cord. Don’t use bleach, solvents, or abrasive pads. Those can damage the insulation and create a shock hazard. A little elbow grease is all it takes.

The main thing: remember it’s still an electrical device. Treat it with respect, not like a garden hose.