How to Clean Your Computer
Now that we are at the height of the flu and cold season, you might want to take a closer look at what is living on your keyboard. A series of studies called “Germs in the Workplace,” found that the following four office surfaces had the most bacteria (in order): phones, desks, computer keyboards, and the computer mouse.
Obviously these are items you touch all day long, all day, every day. Germs and dirt from your hands and mouth get transferred easily onto these items and vice-versa, making them a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. To prevent the spread of illnesses and to keep your computer running in top shape, follow these steps to clean your computer.
Preparation
You will need these cleaning supplies: a can of compresses air (available at computer dealers or office supply stores), cotton swabs (do not use cotton balls), rubbing alcohol, paper towels, and water. And make sure to always turn your computer off before you begin and unplug any cords.
Keyboard
Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it. Most of the dust and crumbs should fall out. Use the compressed air and blow it into and around the keys. Take a cotton swab and dip it in the rubbing alcohol. Run the cotton swab on the outside and the top of the keys. If you have a laptop, follow the same procedure but take extra care. Do this monthly.
Mouse
Rub the top and bottom of the mouse with a paper towel dipped in rubbing alcohol. Open the back and remove the ball. Wash the ball with water and let it air dry. To clean the inside of the mouse, dip a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and rub all of the components. Scrape off any hard-to-remove grime. And finally blow air into the opening. Replace the ball and cover. Do this every few months.
Monitor
Moisten a paper towel or a soft, lint-free cloth with water. You can also purchase monitor cleaning products at a computer-supply store, but do not spray the liquid on the screen, spray the cloth instead. Wipe the screen gently to remove dust and fingerprints.
Spills
If a spill occurs, disconnect the keyboard immediately and flip it over. Blot the top with a paper towel, blow compressed air between the keys, and leave it to dry overnight. For laptops, liquids can easily penetrate the case, so turn the power off in turn over the computer immediately and leave it in that position to dry.∆