1. Unload the magazine.
First, make sure that your magazine is unloaded before you start cleaning. To do this, push the magazine release button and remove it from the firearm. Then inspect it to make sure that there are no rounds left in the chamber.
2. Remove the base plate.
On many magazines, the base plate can be removed by pushing down on a small tab or button and sliding it off. There may be a screw holding the baseplate on. Make sure you put the spring, follower and baseplate in a safe place so that you can reassemble the magazine later.
3. Clean the inside of the magazine.
Use a cotton swab or a soft cloth to clean the inside of the magazine, paying particular attention to the feed lips and the follower. You can also use a can of compressed air to blow out any dirt or debris. Check for rust and corrosion, and if you find any, you will need to remove it. You can use a toothbrush or other small, soft brush to scrub away any rust or corrosion. You can use a brass brush or a cleaning rod wrapped with a cleaning patch to remove any fouling or carbon deposits.
4. Clean the base plate and the follower.
Use a cotton swab or a soft cloth to clean the base plate and the follower, being sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
5. Lubricate the magazine.
Apply a small amount of lubrication to the inside of the magazine, the feed lips, and the follower. This will help to keep the magazine funcionando properly. Make sure you do not use too much lubricant, as this can cause the magazine to malfunction.
6. Reassemble the magazine.
Put the spring, follower and baseplate back into the magazine. Slide the baseplate back into place, and make sure that the tab or button is locked into place.
7. Test the magazine.
Insert the magazine back into the firearm and check to make sure that it functions properly.