Did you know that cleaning your computer can prevent everything from computer overheating problems to software installation issues to germ spreading prevention? Wait did I say germ prevention? Yes I sure did.
Can anyone say 'ewww.....gross!'. And what is the right thing to do if you happen to spill your prized cup of coke or V8 Splash juice on your keyboard? Let's dive right in and see what the experts have to say.
Case cleaning-keeps computer cool
Why? Keeps the appearance of the computer looking new. Also the cleaning of ventilation locations helps keep a steady airflow to the computer, keeping the components cool and in good working condition.
Procedure: The plastic case that houses the PC components can be cleaned with a lint-free cloth (like an old cotton t-shirt) that has been slightly dampened with water. For stubborn stains, add a little household detergent to the cloth. It is recommended that you never use a solvent (i.e. heavy duty) cleaner on plastics. A little vinegar mixed with water may work well.
It may also be helpful to take a vacuum around each of the holes/vents/crevices on the computer. It is safe to use a standard vacuum when cleaning these outside vents of a computer; but remember, if you need to clean the inside of the computer, use a portable battery powered vacuum to prevent static electricity.
CD-ROM, DVD, and other disc drive cleaning- prevents software installation issues
Why? A dirty CD-ROM drive or other disc drives can cause read errors when reading discs. These read errors could cause software installation issues or issues while running the program.
Procedure: To clean the CD Tray eject the drive and whip with a cloth dampened with water and make sure that the tray is completely dry before putting the tray back into the drive. To clean the CD-ROM drive itself we recommend purchasing a CD-ROM cleaner from any electronic store. Using a CD-ROM cleaner should sufficiently clean the CD-ROM laser from dust, dirt, and hair.
Keyboard cleaning - prevents germ transfer
The below steps are for cleaning a standard desktop keyboard.
Dust, dirt, and bacteria
The computer keyboard is often the most germ infected item in your home or office; often it will contain more bacteria than your toilet seat. Cleaning it can help remove any dangerous bacteria. Dirt, dust and hair can also build up causing the keyboard to not function properly.
Procedure: Before cleaning the keyboard first turn off the computer or if you're using a USB keyboard unplug it. Not unplugging the keyboard can result in causing other computer problems as you may press keys that cause the computer to perform a task you don't want it to do.
Many people clean the keyboard by turning it upside down and shaking. A more effective method is to use compressed air.
Compressed air is pressurised air contained in a can with a very long nozzle.
Aim the air between the keys and blow away all of the dust and debris that has gathered there.
A vacuum cleaner can also be used, but make sure the keyboard doesn't have loose "pop off" keys that could possibly be sucked up by the vacuum.
After the dust, dirt, and hair has been removed. Spray disinfectant onto a cloth or use disinfectant cloths and rub each of the keys on the keyboard.
As mentioned in our general cleaning tips, never spray any liquid onto the keyboard, it should be sprayed onto the cloth.
So now, what should you do if a substance is spilt onto the keyboard? – Listen to your instincts!
If the keyboard has anything spilt onto it (e.g. pop, cola, Pepsi, Coke, wine, coffee, milk, etc.), not taking the proper steps can cause the keyboard to be destroyed.
Procedure: If anything is spilt onto the keyboard turn the computer off immediately or at the very least disconnect it from the computer.
Once done quickly flip the keyboard over helping to prevent the substance from penetrating circuits. While the keyboard is upside down, shake the keyboard over a surface that can be cleaned later.
While still upside down, use a cloth to help clean out what can be reached.
After cleaned to the best of your ability leave the keyboard upside down for at least one night allowing it to dry.
Once dry, continue cleaning the keyboard with any remaining substance.
If after cleaning the keyboard you have keys that stick, remove the keys and clean below the keys and the bottom portion of the key.
Finally, if the keyboard still works but remains dirty or sticky before discarding the keyboard as a last resort try washing the keyboard in a dishwasher.
If after doing all the above steps the keyboard does not function properly or at all it's recommended you buy a new keyboard.
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