Chances are good that if you look down at your keyboard, or at your monitor, or even at your most used mobile device, one of them will be a little dusty and grimy. It really is inevitable that your computer or devices will get dirty and therefore it’s important that you take steps to keep them clean. But do you know how to go about cleaning your devices?
Cleaning Desktop Monitors
The monitor on your desktop is what many people spend the majority of their days in the office looking at. A clean monitor makes it easier to see your desktop more clearly. The best way to clean your monitor is to turn it off first, then take a microfiber cloth (these can be purchased at many optical stores as well as computer stores) and gently rub in a circular motion.
If there are still spots, then dip the cloth in a tiny bit of water – don’t spray the water onto the screen – and try cleaning again. It is important that you don’t press hard on the screen, as this could damage your monitor’s pixels. Also, it is not a good idea to use paper-based products like paper towel or tissue, as they will not only leave residue, but may actually scratch the monitor slightly.
Cleaning Mobile Screens
Mobile and other touch screens usually will get your fingerprints all over them, making it harder to see what you are looking at. The best way to clean these screens is with a microfiber cloth. For tougher to remove spots you can dip the cloth into a small amount of water and then gently wipe the screen. Don’t splash water onto it before cleaning, as water could get inside the device, which will likely void the warranty while potentially ruin internal components.
Some people suggest rubbing alcohol to remove fingerprints and disinfect the device. While this will be ok for some screens, many manufacturers recommend against it because the alcohol can eat away at the protective film on some devices.
If you notice that there is a lot of dust or gunk on the edges of your screen, or even in cracks, you may need to take the device into a mobile shop for further cleaning. Do not open the device yourself as this could void the warranty.
Cleaning Your Keyboard
Our fingers are touching keyboards almost all day, and after a while you will notice that your keyboard gets a bit grungy, with debris and dirt even between the keys. Before you do start cleaning, be sure to unplug the keyboard, or turn it off if it is wireless. To clean the upper parts of the keys – where your fingers strike the keys – try dipping cotton swabs into rubbing alcohol and then cleaning the keys with a gentle rub.
To clean between keys you will need compressed air which can be purchased at most office supply and computer stores. Spraying in between keys should be enough to get rid of most of the dust and grit.
Cleaning Your Mouse
Like the keyboard, the mouse can get quite dirty too, with grime from your fingers and dust in general. The best way to clean a mouse is to first unplug it and then use cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean it. You should not need to open your mouse and most models are designed to not be opened by users.
Cleaning Your Laptop’s Body
If your laptop’s body is dirty the most effective way to clean it is to turn it off, unplug it, and clean it with cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol. Some online articles recommend using a Mr Clean Magic Eraser, or similar cleaning tool. While this does work, it acts in the same way as super fine sandpaper, so you have to be careful that you do not end up actually lightly scratching the body.
Cleaning Your Computer Tower
Some people may want to clean their desktop computer’s tower. While this is doable by taking a slightly damp microfiber cloth and wiping down the front and side of your tower, we strongly recommend avoiding the back, and certain areas of the front, as there are ports and components that could be easily damaged.
As always, be sure to disconnect the power source and all wires before cleaning, as any water damage could ruin your computer.
Cleaning The Inside Of Your Computer
Dust will eventually get into the inside of your computer and could clog up cooling fans, causing them to stop working properly. This can potentially lead to other components overheating. The internal components of your computer are extremely fragile and need to be handled with great care. Do not take the case off of your computer as this usually voids your warranty.
For all of your computer needs our technicians are here to help.
Published on 17th July 2014 by Jeanne DeWitt.
