While you are busy dusting shelves and cleaning windows, don't neglect to clean your electronics. Our smartphones, laptops and other gadgets get a lot of use every day and acquire dirt, smudges and germs. Follow these tips to keep your gadgets looking like new.
(Before you begin cleaning your gadgets, it is a good idea to unplug and power down the device.)
Keyboards
Cans of compressed air (sold at most office supply stores) are great for getting crumbs and debris out from between the keys. Follow the directions on the can - hold the can upright, use short, quick bursts of air and do so in a well-ventilated area, as the cans contain gases which can be harmful if inhaled.
Cotton swabs, lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol, can be used to clean around and between the keys of the keyboard to help remove stubborn dirt.
Mice
The rubber feet that are present on the bottom of most mice tend to pick up a lot of dust and dirt over time. These can be cleaned with a cotton swab or towel dampened with a little rubbing alcohol. Be careful to avoid getting alcohol or any other liquid near or inside the sensor opening of the mouse.
Touchscreen Devices
Dry, lint-free lens wipes (such as eyeglass lens cloths) work great for removing smudges on touch screens. Be sure that they are alcohol-free. (Some touch screens have a special coating which protects the device but can be worn away with liquid cleaning solutions.) Additionally, when cleaning a touch screen, be gentle and do not press down too hard.
LCD Laptops, Monitors, TV Screens
In an office supply store, you might find LCD screen cleaning solution and wipes, which work great to clean up your monitor. You can also make your own liquid LCD screen cleaner with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. Whichever solution you use, don't spray any liquid directly onto the screen or let any liquid pool on the surface. Apply a small amount of solution to a soft rag like a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the screen. Most electronic manufacturers advise against using paper towels or tissues, which might scratch the screen or leave streams or lint.
Laptop and Desktop Covers
For cleaning the case or cover of your computer, check an electronics store or office supply store for wipes specifically designed for computer cleaning, or even a cloth slightly dampened with water. Avoid letting moisture fall into cracks or openings.
