Laptops are dust and grime magnets. But a dirty laptop isn’t just a cosmetic nightmare, it can also cause poor performance and overheating.
Computer generally can attract dirts, laptops are dust and grime magnets. But a dirty laptop isn’t just a cosmetic nightmare, it can also cause poor performance and overheating. So, how can you clean your laptop properly?
Learning how to clean your laptop is an important skill that involves a certain amount of finesse since you’re dealing with delicate hardware that can easily be knocked out of place or broken.
And when you’re cleaning the outside of your computer, keep in mind it’s also possible to clean up your laptop internally, too. Your virtual spaces should be kept tidy and organized as well, especially if you find yourself running out of disk space.
Frst of all, turn off the laptop. Then unplug the laptop.
Remember electrical current and liquid really don’t mix.
Mix the cleaning liquid. One part dishwashing detergent with five parts water.
Avoid using any detergent that contains strong chemicals, such as ammonia or bleach.
Soak the sponge in the cleaning liquid. Wring out the sponge until it’s dry.
Isopropyl, or “rubbing,” alcohol makes a good cleaning liquid. Do not use it to clean the monitor.
Gently wipe down the laptop’s case. The laptop case is the outside. Use the swab to get the nooks and crannies.
You can use the standard Q-tip, but medical swabs are better made and wrapped a little tighter. Medical swabs can be found at any pharmacy.
Do not insert the swab into any ports, jacks, or holes on the laptop.
Use the cloth to sop up any excess moisture. Never spill any liquid inside the laptop!
Finish the job by wiping the case again with the lint-free cloth.
Next up: The keyboard. The key here is not to let any liquid drip down underneath your keyboard. Use your can of compressed air to remove any crumbs that are lying in the crevices in between the keys. After that, dab a lint-free cloth in isopropyl rubbing alcohol and gently rub your keys.
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You might be able to remove some stains with soap and water, but isopropyl rubbing alcohol is better for two reasons. For one, it evaporates almost immediately, which greatly reduces the risk of liquid getting inside your laptop. Secondly, it’s effective in removing the oily residue left behind by your fingertips.
Lastly, if your laptop has large side vents, you’ll likely find that they are a magnet for dust bunnies. (Same goes for expansion ports.) Use a can of compressed air to blow the dust bunnies out; this will not only make your laptop look better, but it can also improve performance by letting your laptop better control its temperature with a clean vent.
If you’re comfortable taking your computer apart, you can also open it up and clean off the board with isopropyl alcohol. But in my experience, this isn’t usually necessary, it just speeds up the process a little bit.
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