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Q: How do I clean my laptop?

Answer

Your laptop manufacturer may provide instructions for how to properly clean your computer. For example, here are instructions for cleaning Apple devices and here is how Dell recommends cleaning its computers.

Here are general suggestions for how to clean your laptop.

What you will need

  • A lint-free or 100% soft cotton cloth
  • Water
  • A can of compressed air
  • Cotton swabs (optional)

Prepare your laptop

  • Turn off your computer and unplug it
  • Dampen (don't drench!! squeeze out excess!) your cloth with the water - never spray or pour liquid directly onto your machine.

Clean your laptop exterior

  • Use the damp cloth to clean both the exterior of your laptop when it is closed and the area around your keyboard and screen when it is open.

Clean your laptop screen

  • Use the same dampened cloth (or a fresh one if the first is too dirty) to rub gently in circular motions from left to right, top to bottom of your screen.

Clean the ports and cooling vents

  • Spray the can of compressed air at an angle (keep the can upright!) into the ports and cooling vents of your laptop, being careful not to spray too hard resulting in liquid in your device.

Clean the keyboard and touchpad

  • Use the can of compressed air to clean your keyboard. The compressed air will loosen and remove any debris that is stuck in between and underneath your keys.
  • Use your damp cloth to wipe the keys and the touchpad. You can also use a cotton swab lightly dampened with water to clean your keys. Be sure not to let any liquid seep into your keyboard!

Dry time

  • Make sure your computer is completely dry before turning it back on.

If you have questions about cleaning your laptop or need help, contact the IS&T Service Desk.

IS&T Contributions

Documentation and information provided by IS&T staff members


Last Modified:

May 20, 2019

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