How to clean your computer and laptop

Computer is an electronic device. The computer is a technology in today’s world that we use for personal, business, and entertainment purposes. Like other devices, it also accumulates dirt, and if not cleaned regularly, it can get damaged. Therefore, we should clean the computer for 15 minutes every day. In this guide, we will learn How to clean your computer and laptop hardware parts such as the keyboard, computer screen, mouse, mouse pad which we can clean ourselves at home.

A computer is divided into two parts: one is the software part, and the other is the hardware part. Different cleaning software is used to clean the software part. On the other hand, some parts of the hardware can be cleaned by ourselves, while others need to be cleaned at a service center.

How to clean your keyboard?

A keyboard is one of the most important parts of a computer or laptop. It is also one of the dirtiest areas since we touch it daily. According to a CBS News report, a computer keyboard can contain more bacteria than a toilet seat. A dirty keyboard can gradually become damaged. Therefore, we should clean the keyboard before using it every day.

Caution: Before cleaning the keyboard, disconnect it from the PC. For laptops, turn off the laptop and unplug it.

How to Clean Your Laptop and computer Keyboard: 5 Effective Methods

Shake Out Loose Debris: The easiest way to clean your keyboard is by using this method. It will help remove any dirt, large debris, or dust particles from the keyboard.
- Turn your keyboard upside down over a trash can or a towel, then gently tap and shake it to dislodge any loose debris.
Wipe Down with a Microfiber Cloth: “Regularly cleaning with a high-quality microfiber cloth can help remove accumulated oil and dirt from your keyboard.
- Dampen the microfiber cloth slightly with a small amount of water.
- Then, gently wipe the key surfaces and the spaces between them.
- For stubborn stains, use a lightly dampened cloth with isopropyl alcohol instead of water.”
Compressed air usage: Using compressed air is quite effective for cleaning keyboards. It easily removes dust, dirt, and small debris from the gaps between the keys, which is difficult to clean with regular clothes and brushes.

Hold the compressed air can upright.
Spray lightly into the gaps between the keys, excessive pressure can create moisture.
Spray across the entire keyboard in a zigzag pattern to ensure all areas are cleaned thoroughly.
Do not tilt or invert the can, this can cause liquid propellant to escape, which is harmful to the keyboard.
If there is a lot of accumulated dirt, it is best to clean with a soft brush or microfiber cloth in addition to compressed air.

Use a Keyboard Cleaning Gel: Cleaning Gel, also known as cleaning slime, is quite effective for cleaning keyboards. It works well for removing dust, dirt, and small particles trapped between the keys, where cloth and brushes cannot easily reach.
- Take the Cleaning Gel in your hand and gently press it onto the keyboard.
- Let it sit between the keys for a while so that the dirt sticks to the gel.
- Slowly lift the gel, allowing the dust and dirt to come off.
- Do not reuse it repeatedly—replace it after one or two uses, as it may lose its effectiveness over time.
Deep Cleaning by Removing Keys (For Mechanical Keyboards): If your keyboard has removable keys, taking them off allows for a more thorough clean.

Carefully pop off the keys using a keycap puller.
Soak the keys in warm, soapy water to remove grime.
Clean the keyboard base with a soft brush and a microfiber cloth.
Let everything dry completely before reattaching the keys.

How to clean your Mouse ?

After the keyboard, our hands use a mouse the most. If the accumulated dirt on the mouse is not cleaned properly, its functionality may decrease. A mouse generally comes in several main types. The most popular ones include: Wired Mouse, Wireless Mouse, Optical Mouse, Laser Mouse, Gaming Mouse, Trackball Mouse, and Ergonomic Mouse. In this section, we will learn how to clean your mouse.

How to Clean a Wired and Wireless Mouse

Turn off the mouse – If it’s wired, unplug it from the PC; if it’s wireless, remove the battery.
Clean the exterior – Dampen a soft cotton cloth with a little water and wipe the surface of the mouse.
Clean the buttons and scroll wheel – Use a cotton swab or brush to remove dust and dirt from around the buttons and scroll wheel.
Clean the sensor – Gently wipe off any dirt from the optical or laser sensor with cotton, but do not rub it with a cloth. If you have a compressed air vacuum cleaner at home, you can use it.
Clean the cable – If it’s a wired mouse, wipe down the cable as well.

How to Clean a Gaming Mouse

Gaming mice have extra buttons, so they require more thorough cleaning.
Lightly dampen a cotton swab with alcohol or water and gently clean around each button.
If the mouse grip is rubber, use a slightly damp cloth.
Use a toothpick to clean around the DPI button.

How to Clean a Trackball Mouse

Remove the trackball (if possible).
Use a cotton swab or brush to clean around the ball and sensor area
If dirt accumulates inside the ball holder, remove it using a toothpick.

Precautions When Cleaning a Mouse

Do not use excessive water or liquid.
Avoid applying too much pressure on the buttons or sensor.
Do not use too much alcohol or cleaner.

Tip: Regular cleaning will improve performance.

How to Clean a Mouse Pad: A Step-by-Step Guide

A clean mouse pad is essential for smooth mouse movement and optimal performance, whether you’re gaming, working, or browsing the web. Over time, dust, dirt, and oils from your hands can accumulate on the surface, leading to reduced accuracy and an unpleasant feel. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to clean your mouse pad safely and effectively.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

For Cloth Mouse Pads

Prepare Soapy Water: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
Submerge and Scrub: Place the mouse pad in the water and gently scrub the surface with a soft sponge or cloth. Use a soft-bristled brush for tougher stains.
Rinse Thoroughly: Run the pad under clean water to remove all soap residue.
Remove Excess Water: Gently press the pad with a towel to absorb moisture. Avoid wringing it out, as this can damage the material.
Air Dry Completely: Lay the mouse pad flat on a dry towel and let it air dry for several hours (preferably overnight).

For Hard Surface Mouse Pads

Wipe with Soapy Water: Dampen a cloth with soapy water and wipe the surface thoroughly.
Remove Stains: For tougher stains, scrub gently with a sponge or soft brush.
Dry with a Towel: Wipe off excess moisture with a dry cloth.
Ensure It’s Completely Dry: Before using it again, let the pad air dry for a few minutes

How to clean your computer screen

When using a computer, our eyes are always focused on the monitor screen. If dust, stains, or fingerprints accumulate on the screen, it not only looks unpleasant but also makes reading and working difficult. Additionally, a dirty screen can negatively affect the monitor’s performance. Therefore, regular cleaning is essential to ensure clear visibility and maintain the screen’s durability. However, it is crucial to use the right materials and methods to avoid damaging the screen.

Whether your monitor is CRT, LCD, LED, or OLED, specific cleaning techniques must be followed. Today, we will learn how to safely clean your computer screen.

Steps by step How Clean Your Computer Screen

1. Turn Off the Computer and Unplug It : Before cleaning the screen, turn off the computer or laptop and unplug it. This will reduce the screen’s temperature, making stains more visible and easier to clean.

2. Wipe Off Dust with a Microfiber Cloth: Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the dirt from the center of the computer screen in a circular motion. Do not apply too much pressure, as this can damage the screen.

3. Use a Screen Cleaning Solution or Water

If there are sticky stains or smudges on the screen, lightly spray a small amount of screen cleaner or distilled water onto the microfiber cloth.
Never spray liquid directly onto the screen, as it can seep inside and cause damage.
Gently wipe the screen until it is clean.

4. Clean the Screen Edges

If dust accumulates around the edges or frame of the screen, use a cotton swab to clean it carefully.

5. Let the Screen Dry

After cleaning, allow the screen to air dry naturally or wipe it gently with a dry microfiber cloth.

FAQ: Common Questions About Clean computer

What do you use to clean a computer screen?

Microfiber Cloth – Soft and lint-free, perfect for wiping screens without scratching.
Distilled Water – Free from minerals that could leave streaks.
Screen Cleaning Solution – A mix of 50% distilled water and 50% white vinegar (or isopropyl alcohol below 70%).
Pre-moistened Screen Wipes – Designed for electronics, alcohol-free options are ideal.

What do you avoid using to clean a computer screen?

Paper Towels & Tissues – Can scratch the screen and leave lint.
Window or Glass Cleaners – Harsh chemicals (like ammonia or bleach) can damage coatings.
Tap Water – Contains minerals that can leave residue.
Excessive Liquid – Can seep into edges and cause damage.

Can I use alcohol wipes on my PC screen?

No, you should avoid using alcohol wipes on your PC screen, especially if it has a matte or anti-glare coating. Alcohol can damage the protective layer, causing discoloration or screen deterioration over time. Instead, use a microfiber cloth with distilled water or a screen-safe cleaning solution.

How do I clean my computer screen without a cleaner?

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the screen. If needed, lightly dampen it with distilled water and wipe gently. Avoid spraying water directly. Let it dry before turning the computer back on.

What is the best way to clean a laptop keyboard?

Turn off and unplug the laptop.
Shake or use compressed air to remove debris.
Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to wipe dust.
Dampen a cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70%) and wipe the keys gently.
Use cotton swabs for tight spaces.
Let it dry before turning the laptop back on.

Can I put my mouse pad in the washing machine?

Yes, most cloth mouse pads can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. However, avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, and let it air dry completely.

How long does it take for a mouse pad to dry?

Depending on the material and thickness, a cloth mouse pad can take anywhere from 6 to 24 hours to dry completely. Hard surface mouse pads dry within minutes after wiping.

Conclusion

A computer is an essential part of our daily lives, which we use for various tasks. However, regular use leads to the accumulation of dust and dirt, and it can also become a breeding ground for bacteria. If not cleaned on time, its performance may decline.

By following the guidelines provided above, you can easily clean your computer screen, keyboard, and mouse at home. Maintaining regular cleanliness will help your computer perform efficiently for a long time.

Finally, to keep your computer functional and germ-free, make it a habit to clean it at least once a week.