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Home Office DIY Tips – How To Clean Your Computer

Everyone takes the time to clean their home frequently. Removing dust, vacuuming and cleaning up clutter will make for a happy environment. But when was the last time you cleaned your computer? I know this does not usually cross my mind. I would not know how to do it or how often it should be done. So I did some research and spoke to some people who take care of computers.

The most common time-frame to clean your computer is every 6 months. However, clean it more often if younger children use it, you have pets or there is a lot of dust in the air.

  1. Turn it off before cleaning.
  2. If using a electronic friendly spray to clean, spray the liquid onto a cloth and then use that cloth to rub down the component.
  3. You can use a vacuum to suck up dirt, dust, or hair around the computer on the outside case. However, do not use a vacuum for the inside of your computer as it generates a lot of static electricity that can damage the internal components of your computer.
  4. If using a cleaning liquid, use water or a highly diluted solvent.
  5. When cleaning, be careful not to accidentally adjust any knobs or controls.
  6. When cleaning fans, hold the fan or place something in-between the fan blades to prevent it from spinning. Do not use compressed air or vacuum on a fan because it may damage it.

The computer keyboard is often the most germ infected items in your home or office, often it will contain more bacteria than your toilet seat. Cleaning it can help remove any dangerous bacteria. Dirt, dust and hair can also build up causing the keyboard to not function properly. If you have a standard keyboard, unplug it from your computer. Use compressed air and aim the nozzle between the keys. Blow away all of the dust and debris. This will remove the majority of particles. Second, spray disinfectant onto a cloth and rub each of the keys on the keyboard. If after cleaning the keyboard you have keys that stick, remove the keys and clean underneath and the bottom portion of the key.

If you have a laptop clean the keyboard using the same damp cloth you used to clean the exterior of the computer. Compressed air can be used to spray any dust, dirt or hair from between the keys.

To clean the monitor use a microfiber cloth or Swiffer Duster to remove dust from the screen and the backside of the keyboard. Make sure that there is nothing obstructing any vents so the components inside the monitor can “breathe”. Glass cleaner can be used on any monitor with a glass screen, however, if used on a special screen, the ammonia in the cleaner may remove any anti-glare protection. If unsure it is best to stay with a clean, dry cloth.

Cleaning your computer properly is a way to keep it in functioning order. If you experience any problems or are unsure of how to clean it, take it to a professional. The better you take care of your computer, the longer it will last. Now isn’t that smart?

Written By: Kathryn LaBarbera of Closet Factory Los Angeles & Orange County

Ever wonder how to recycle your electronics? Read this related article:

Disposing of Old Electronics

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