Monday, November 01, 2004
Below is a listing of general tips that should be taken when cleaning any of the components or peripherals of a computer as well as tips to help keep a computer clean.
- Never spray or squirt any type of liquid onto any computer component. If a spray is needed spray the liquid onto a cloth and then use that cloth to rub down the component.
- When using a vacuum to suck up dirt, dust, or hair be cautious not to suck up any removable parts.
- When cleaning a component and/or the computer turn it off.
- Never get any component inside the computer or any other circuit board damp or wet.
- Be cautions when using any type of cleaning solvents, some individuals may have allergic reactions to chemicals in cleaning solvents.
- Never eat or drink around the computer.
- Limit smoking around the computer.
Although many companies have created products to help improve the process of cleaning your computer and peripherals users can also use household items to clean their computers and peripherals. Below is a listing of items you may need or want to use while cleaning your computer or computer peripherals.
Keep in mind that some components in your computer may only be able to be cleaned using a product designed for cleaning that component, if this is the case it will be mentioned in the cleaning tips.
- Cloth - A cloth is the best tool used when rubbing down a component, although paper towels can be used with most hardware we recommend using a cloth when ever possible.
- Water or rubbing alcohol - When moistening a cloth it is best to use water or rubbing alcohol. Other solvents may be bad for the plastics used with your computer.
- Vacuum - Sucking the dust, dirt, hair, cigarette particles, and other particles out of a computer can be one of the best methods of cleaning a computer. Over time these items can restrict the airflow in a computer and cause circuitry to corrode.
- Cotton swabs - Cotton swaps moistened with rubbing alcohol or water are excellent tools for wiping hard to reach areas in your keyboard, mouse, and other locations.
- Foam swabs - Whenever possible it is better to use lint free swabs such as foam swabs.
