A laptop or notebook is a compact, transportable personal computer commonly called MacBook or PC depending on the operating system. In our daily lives, laptops have evolved into indispensable tools. We rely on them to keep us connected and productive for everything from business to entertainment. Yet, with frequent usage, and given that it’s highly mobile, laptops can easily get dirty and dusty, resulting in decreased performance and possibly even hardware damage. Hence you may want to know how to clean your laptop.
Cleaning your laptop can help both you and it live longer. The keyboards on computers are a haven for germs. The Center for Disease Control actually advises regularly cleaning your computer mouse and keyboard in addition to other frequently touched surfaces [source: CDC]. Your laptop’s screen should also be considered while you’re cleaning the keypad and mouse. In this article, we’ll walk you through (4) four practical steps on how to clean your laptop safely and properly.
Nevertheless, make sure your laptop is off and removed from any power sources before you start. If the battery is replaceable, taking it out will help you avoid any unintentional power-ups while you’re cleaning and this keeps the laptop isolated from any form of power
Let’s dive into the (4) steps on how to clean your laptop securely and effectively.
Exterior Cleaning: How to clean your laptop from the outside
Follow the following simple steps to clean the outside of your laptop
Start by cleaning your laptop outside. Use a microfiber cloth and clean the keyboard, lid, and display. Use a tiny amount of water or rubbing alcohol to dampen the cloth to remove tough grime or smudges. Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the surface or scrape it.
Use a solution of water and mild soap to wash the outside of a MacBook or any laptop with an aluminium body. Use the solution to dampen a delicate cloth and gently wipe the surface. Use a clean, dry cloth to completely dry the laptop.
Keyboard Cleaning: How to clean your laptop Keyboard
Next, concentrate on sanitizing the keyboard. Blow out any dust or debris that may have gathered between the keys using a can of compressed air. In order to prevent any liquid from spraying over the keyboard, hold the can upright and blow out small bursts of air.
You can use a tiny amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab or soft cloth to remove particularly difficult stains or spills. While wiping off the keys, make careful to squeeze away any extra liquid. Avoid spilling anything within the keyboard because doing so could harm the parts. In summary, follow these steps;
- Disconnect the charger from the notebook and turn it off.
- Flip Open the laptop.
- For the purpose of removing any remaining particles, flip the laptop over and give it a light touch.
- Spray the keypad with some bottled air. Some of the debris that is caught in between the buttons will become loose as a result.
- Place the laptop on a level surface and vacuum the keys with a small brush attachment.
- Wipe the buttons and the spaces between them with some cotton pads that have been dampened with rubbing alcohol (if possible). Verify that the samples are only damp, not saturated.
Screen Cleaning: How to clean your Laptop Screen
A soft touch is necessary while cleaning your laptop’s screen. Dust and smudges can be removed using a microfiber cloth, but don’t press too hard or you risk damaging the screen. If there are any difficult-to-remove stains, try a vinegar-and-water solution or a specific screen-cleaning solution.
To prevent getting any liquid inside the laptop, spray the solution onto the cloth rather than directly onto the screen. Once the screen is thoroughly clean, gently rub it in a circular motion to dry it.
Internal Cleaning: How to clean your laptop internally
Cleaning on the inside is equally as vital as cleaning on the outside. Your laptop’s internal dust and dirt buildup over time might result in decreased performance and possible hardware damage. Most time laptop overheating is a result of accumulated dust and dirt blocking the vents.
However, you will have to open your laptop in order to clean the inside. It is best to consult a professional if you don’t feel confident doing this on your own. Nonetheless, if you’re assured of your abilities, you can take the following actions:
- The laptop should be turned off and unplugged from all power sources.
- Remove the screws securing the battery and the rear cover.
- To remove any dust or dirt from the inside of the laptop, use a can of compressed air while being careful not to touch any internal parts.
- Clean any difficult-to-reach spots gently with a brush with soft bristles.
- Test the laptop’s performance after reassembly.
Without any doubt, regular cleaning is essential to keeping your laptop in good shape and extending its life, it of course maintains its beauty as well. You can make sure that your laptop stays in excellent condition and provides the performance you require for years to come by following these instructions.
