How to apply a Nintendo Switch screen protector without getting any bubbles

Sometimes applying the best Nintendo Switch screen protectors can be the most stressful part of setting your tech up, because honestly, who wants those ugly little bubbles staring back at you every time your screen turns on? Fortunately, there are a couple of basic steps you can take to make sure your Switch isn't basking in its bubble-y glory! Here's how to put a screen protector on your Switch, Switch Lite, or Switch OLED.

1. Purchase a multipack of screen protectors with alignment frames

We're all bound to make mistakes throughout our tech lives, so I always recommend people purchase a multipack of screen protectors so they can use another one if they somehow damage the first one or get unsightly fingerprints on the sticky side. Additionally, many screen protector packs come with alignment kits, plastic frames that you place around the Switch and make it easier to get the screen protector in the right position the first time around.

If possible, you'll want to get a multipack that comes with an alignment frame. We've included buy links to screen protectors that include alignment frames for the regular Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED in this guide in case you want one.

2. Make sure everything is clean

The first step is relatively simple: Wash your hands and make sure they are clean, then make sure your Switch's screen is clean. This might mean wiping the console down with a cleaning solution or a bit of warm water while using a microfiber cloth. Many screen protectors also come with a cleaning solution and stickers, which you can use to dab the screen and lift any dust particles from it.

• Pro Tip: Keep dust out of the air with a hot shower. Run a super hot shower and get the bathroom nice and steamy and then install it in there. This helps keep dust out of the air and helps you with a clean, bubble-free installation. Just make sure the screen is dry before starting, and do not set your console down anywhere wet.

3. Be careful & use alignment frames

Your screen protector is a delicate tool, meaning that the second your drop it, touch the sticky side, or accidentally mess it up in any way, it will no longer be pristine to look at when applied. Place the alignment frame on the Switch, and then get the screen protector ready to go.

4. Start at the edge

Carefully hold the screen protector so that your fingerprints don't get on the sticky side. Hover over the Switch screen, now start in the upper left corner by pressing down with your pointer finger.

PRO TIP: Take your time and peel back if needed to make sure you get a clean, straight fit. Slowly lower more of the protector into place, pressing down evenly to make sure all air escapes the screen.

5. Slide down and to the right

Now that the corner is in place, slide your finger down to the bottom and then along the bottom to the right. This will help the adhesive get a better grip on your Switch screen. When your Switch's screen protector is fully in place, you might have a few tiny bubbles here and there. This is typical and can be rectified as long as they're not massive and bumpy.

6. Guide the bubbles out

Remove the alignment frame and get ready to handle any bubbles. Many protectors come with a square of thick cardstock that you can press down on the screen to guide those bubbles to the edges. If your pack didn't come with one of these, a credit card edge will work perfectly. Just press down and evenly work out the bubbles to the edge of the protector, and you're good to go!

How do you go bubble-less?

Are you an anti-bubble pro? Do you have a special technique that you use to get rid of any bubbles in your screen protector?

Let me know your top tips in the comments below, and I'll be sure to try 'em out!