Clean Up Your (Computer) Act

computer cleaning tipss, laptop cleaning tips, keyboard cleaning tips, screen cleaning tips

The computer gets just as dirty as anything else in the house. Here are simple ways to clean its various components.

1: The Screen.

A Turn off the computer.

Don't just power down; turn it off at the switch.

B Gently wipe the exterior.

Use a cloth dampened with water and just a bit of hand dishwashing detergent.

C Spray glass product onto a lint-free cloth.

Gently wipe the screen.

2: The Keyboard.

Science can't explain it, but soft drinks, crumbs, and coffee are attracted to computer keyboards. Put them and a kid or three in proximity of one another, and they're bound to interact messily sooner or later.

Here's how to handle the inevitable mess when it happens:

A Unplug the keyboard.

There are enough shocks in family life; just do it.

B If liquid is spilled, turn the keyboard over and let it drain and dry for at least 24 hours.

If the spill was a sticky drink - a cola or a latte, perhaps - try prying the small key caps off the keyboard with a flat-head screwdriver to get better access to the mess.

C Take a picture of the keyboard layout, or make a quick sketch of it before you remove any keys so you can put them back where you found them.

Don't remove the spacebar, the Enter key, or other large key caps, however.

D Gently wipe the keyboard with a wet cotton swab.

Gently work off really grimy gunk with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

E Rinse the key caps thoroughly.

Allow to air-dry.

F Replace the key caps. Use your diagram of the layout if needed.

3: The Mouse.

Every time you roll the mouse, you are rolling dust, dirt, and gunk into its innards. About once a month, you need to clean it to keep it rolling along. Here's how:

A Unplug or turn off the mouse.

B Open the back/underside.

Remove batteries and the ball.

C Wipe away grime from the ball with a damp cloth.

Allow to air dry.

D Gently wipe the inside to remove grime and buildup.

Use a cotton swab moistened with rubbing alcohol.

E Dry thoroughly.

Use compressed air to blow dry.