How to Keep Your Computer Clean

Computers are an integral part of our everyday lives, but they can quickly become a dusty mess! Don’t let your computer clutter get the better of you; learn how to keep your machine running smoothly with these simple tips and tricks.

So, if you’re ready to give your computer some TLC, read on for all the dirt on cleaning up your digital life!

Use Compressed Air to Clean Out Dust and Debris

Using compressed air to clean out dust and debris from your computer can help to prevent overheating from the buildup of dirt in sensitive components such as fan blades, cooling vents, and other areas inside the system.

To clean with compressed air, make sure you have adequate ventilation and wear protective eyewear. Get a can of pressurized air and start by finding the vents on your system. Hold the can about 10 inches away from the opening, pointing away from you (as you don’t want to get too close in case there’s a back blast), then press firmly on the nozzle. Aim slightly upward so that any dirt is blown out of the vent rather than into deeper parts of the system. If a part is particularly dirty you may need to repeatedly blast it until it looks clean.

After cleaning with compressed air, follow up by wiping down any exposed surfaces with a soft damp cloth to remove any residual dust particles. If you don’t have the time to clean your computer, ask for help from a cleaning specialist.

Clean the Screen With a Microfiber Cloth

Keeping your computer clean is essential for maintaining peak performance. Regular cleaning also helps to reduce the accumulation of dust, germs, and bacteria which can easily build up on the various components of your computer.

The screen of your computer is a prime spot for collecting dust and smudges, so it should be cleaned regularly with a soft, microfiber cloth.

• A microfiber cloth provides an efficient means of dislodging stubborn dirt and dust particles that can accumulate on the screen surface over time.
• Be sure to only clean in one direction as wiping back and forth could potentially scratch the surface.
• To remove any stubborn marks you may need to dampen the cloth slightly with warm water or diluted window cleaner, but be careful not to use any harsh chemicals like glass cleaners or bleaches as this might damage the monitor’s coating.
• Once you have finished cleaning the screen surface it is important to make sure that it dries out completely before turning your computer back on.

Wipe Down the Keyboard and Mouse

To quickly remove dust from the keyboard and mouse, use a soft cloth or computer cleaning wipe to lightly dab the surface of each. To access hard-to-reach areas, you may need to turn the computer off and flip it over for an even more thorough cleaning. Do not attempt to use small tools such as toothpicks or bobby pins to try and clean out any debris that is stuck in between the keys or within mouse crevices as this can cause damage to your device and potentially void your warranty.

For dirtier surfaces and spills, it is best practice to only use a lightly damp cloth with a cleaner specifically designed for electronics, such as rubbing alcohol and sugar-free detergent. Before using any cleaning liquid, be sure that it does not contain any abrasive components which could damage the finish of your device surfaces. Once wiping is complete, allow all parts of your device plenty of time for air drying before using it again.

Clean the Exterior of the Computer

The exterior of your computer should be cleaned with a dry cloth and an appropriate cleaner. You can use a specific cleaning solution, rubbing alcohol, or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Take extra care not to get any liquid inside the computer. Always work from the top down and do not press hard on the surface.

After cleaning, turn off the computer and remove any dust using a vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Wipe screens, such as monitor screens or laptop screens, with a soft, dry cloth – never use spray cleaners directly on them as they may damage the screen coating.

Clean the Inside of the Computer

Cleaning the inside of your computer is no small task, but it is a necessary one that should be done regularly. Dust and dirt can cause overheating and other damage to your machine’s internal components.

First, shut down your computer and unplug all cables. You must be very careful when working inside to not damage any components. Open the housing to expose the motherboard and other components. Use compressed air or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to carefully clean each area without damaging any of the parts. Pay particular attention to cooling fans and make sure they are free of cloth lint or dust that could prevent them from running correctly.

Remove the RAM sticks, video card, CMOS battery, and any other user-removable pieces. Once these items are removed from your machine, clean off all contact points of debris with a cotton swab dampened with rubbing alcohol or an electronics cleaner. Make sure that all parts are properly placed back in their slots afterward, ensuring they are properly seated so they can function optimally without creating overheating or system failure issues due to incorrect seating or misalignment.

Disinfect the Computer

Using a disinfectant on your computer is an important step in keeping it clean. While many people believe that cleaning with plain water and a cloth is sufficient, this is not always the case. Taking the time to regularly disinfect your screen, keyboard, and other computer components will help you maintain its cleanliness and reduce the risk of getting sick from various germs and bacteria.

Before beginning, be sure to power off the computer and unplug all power cords, USB cables, and any other cords connected to your device. Then use a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust or dirt particles from the surface of your monitor or the body of the machine. Use gentle circular motions so you do not scratch or damage electronic components while cleaning.

Once you have removed any particulates from the device, you can then proceed with disinfecting it by spraying a commercial/professional-grade surface cleaner or 70% isopropyl alcohol onto a lint-free cloth only – never directly onto your device’s surface! Gently wipe down all surfaces including keyboards, edges of monitors/screens (not directly on them), computer body panels, etc). Allow any sprayed areas plenty of time to air dry before powering up your machine again.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of keeping your computer clean and maintained cannot be overstated. From ensuring your computer runs optimally to protecting your data from malicious attacks, a little work can go a long way in prolonging the longevity of your device and keeping yourself safe from viruses or other issues. Learning the basics of cleaning and maintenance can also save you valuable time and money when it comes time to take your PC for repairs or upgrades; so you may even be able to do some minor fixes at home!