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Power Cable on Play 5 Very Sticky


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Hello.
Upgraded recently to Arc Ultra with a pair of 300’s.

Today I’ve removed from their place on shelves the two older Play 5’s to sell.

I found the power cable on one of them to be incredible sticky. No idea why, both speakers are in the same family room. Nothing anywhere near the speaker to cause a residue to build up on the cable.

It really is quite sticky to the touch along the whole length. Certainly not something I’d be happy selling to someone else. 

Both speakers have been fabulous and are still in terrific working order. I’m going to miss the sound quality as the 300’s, whilst brilliant for Atmos, are not as ‘warn’. 

Anyone come across this before?

Any cleaning solutions you can advise to get rid of this?

Cleaning solution you’d advise for the Play 5 speakers just to make sure they’re at their best for the new owner?

Did you find what you were looking for?

3 replies

Sotiris C.
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  • Sonos Staff
  • 748 replies
  • March 7, 2025

Hello ​@Jacksoo, welcome back!

Please have a look at our Support Article Cleaning Sonos products for advise on how to clean your Sonos Play:5’s.

I’ve come across sticky power cables a few times in the past, not really with the Sonos products though. There could be various reasons for this to happen, like direct sunlight or wrong storage/placement.

You could use cleaning wipes or a very slightly wet towel but make sure that the cable is not damaged at any point.

I hope this helps.


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  • Author
  • Contributor II
  • 6 replies
  • March 7, 2025

Thanks for replying. This was the best information i could find:

 

Rubberized power cables can become sticky over time due to a process called "plasticization," where the rubber material absorbs environmental elements like moisture or oils, causing the polymer chains to loosen and become tacky, especially when exposed to heat, age, or prolonged contact with skin oils and dirt.

 

 Interestingly none of the things listed really apply to this situation but the fact that the whole cable is the same would point to some age related degradation. The other 5 that I have is fine🤷‍♂️


buzz
  • 23958 replies
  • March 7, 2025

Experiment with cleaning solvents on the cords. You have nothing to lose. I have various solvents around the house that I purchased many years ago. Given the current price of solvents, you are probably better off purchasing a new cord, rather than a can of solvent that may not work. I’d start with alcohol, then acetone if the alcohol is not effective. Note that acetone will try to dissolve the cord. You may have some other solvents in your stock. With any strong solvents, protect your hands because the solvents will attempt to de-fat your skin.

There is nothing special about the cord -- as long as it fits.


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