Posted by: on April 16, 2025 at 8:21 am

Clean your computer

TAZ Networks employee

The Proper Way to Clean Your Laptop and Desktop Computer

It’s that time of year again! The sun is back out, (well… In a Michigan kind of way) and Spring Cleaning is in the air. You might think yard work, or cleaning out your closest, but what about your computers? Computers are an essential part of daily life, whether for work, gaming, or general use. But, most of us can overlook one crucial aspect of maintenance—keeping our devices clean. Dust, debris, and grime can accumulate over time, leading to overheating, performance issues, and even hardware failure. Regular cleaning can help you avoid those problems. It can help improve longevity, optimal performance, and keeps your workspace nice and hygienic.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the proper way to clean both your laptop and desktop computer. Including the best products and tools to use.

Table of Contents

Why Keeping Your Computer Clean Matters

1. Improved Performance

Dust can clog fans and ventilation ports, causing your computer to overheat. Overheating leads to reduced processing speeds and potential crashes.

2. Longer Lifespan

Regular cleaning prevents dust buildup on internal components, reducing wear and tear on hardware components like the motherboard, GPU, and cooling system.

3. Better Airflow and Cooling

Dust accumulation restricts airflow, making fans work harder to cool the system. Keeping your computer dust-free ensures that your cooling system operates efficiently.

4. Hygiene and Health Benefits

Keyboards, trackpads, and mice collect bacteria, which can spread germs. Regular cleaning helps maintain a healthier workspace.

5. Avoiding Static Damage

Static electricity can damage sensitive electronic components inside your computer, leading to permanent hardware failure. When cleaning, especially when opening up a desktop PC, be mindful of static buildup.

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Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning Your Computer

✅ Do’s:

  • Use a microfiber cloth to wipe screens, keyboards, and exterior surfaces without scratching.
  • Use compressed air to safely remove dust from keyboards, vents, and ports.
  • Use 70% or higher isopropyl alcohol to disinfect surfaces, but apply it to a cloth rather than spraying directly.
  • Work in a static-free environment when opening a desktop PC and use an anti-static wrist strap.
  • Hold fans in place when using compressed air to prevent them from spinning too fast and causing damage.
  • Use a soft-bristle brush to gently clean vents and hard-to-reach areas.

❌ Don’ts:

  • Don’t use household cleaners like Windex or vinegar on your screen, as they can damage anti-glare coatings.
  • Don’t spray liquids directly onto your computer—always apply them to a cloth first.
  • Don’t use paper towels to clean your screen, as they can scratch the surface.
  • Don’t use a vacuum inside your computer case, as vacuums generate static electricity, which can damage internal components.
  • Don’t clean your computer while it’s plugged in to avoid electrical hazards.
  • Don’t use cotton swabs inside ports where fibers can get stuck and cause connectivity issues.

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How to Avoid Static Electricity While Cleaning

  • Use an Anti-Static Wrist Strap: When opening up your desktop case, wear an anti-static wrist strap and clip it to a grounded metal object.
  • Work on a Hard Surface: Avoid cleaning your computer on carpets or rugs, as these generate static electricity.
  • Discharge Yourself: Before touching any internal components, touch a grounded metal object, such as the case of your PC, to discharge any static electricity.
  • Avoid Wearing Wool or Synthetic Fabrics: These materials can create static, increasing the risk of damage.

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How to Clean Your Laptop

What You’ll Need:

  • Microfiber cloths – For wiping down surfaces without scratching.
  • Compressed air canister – To remove dust from keyboards and vents.
  • Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) – For disinfecting.
  • Cotton swabs – To clean tight spaces.
  • Soft-bristle brush – To remove debris from ports and keyboards.
  • Screen cleaner or distilled water – To safely clean the screen.

Step-by-Step Laptop Cleaning Guide:

1. Power Down and Unplug
  • Before cleaning, turn off your laptop and unplug it to avoid electrical damage.
2. Clean the Keyboard
  • Turn the laptop upside down and gently shake out loose debris.
  • Use compressed air to blow out dust from between the keys.
  • Dampen a microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol and wipe the keys.
  • Use cotton swabs dipped in alcohol to clean between the keys.
3. Clean the Screen
  • Use a microfiber cloth to wipe off fingerprints and dust.
  • Lightly dampen another cloth with a screen-safe cleaner (or distilled water) and gently wipe in circular motions.
  • Avoid using vinegar-based solutions, as they may damage the anti-glare coating on some monitors. Always check your manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Clean the Ports and Vents
  • Use a soft-bristle brush or compressed air to remove dust from vents and ports.
5. Wipe Down the Exterior
  • Use a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to clean the laptop’s outer casing.

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How to Clean Your Desktop Computer

What You’ll Need:

  • Microfiber cloths
  • Compressed air canister
  • Soft-bristle brush
  • Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
  • Vacuum with a brush attachment (optional, for external dust removal)
  • Phillips screwdriver (if opening the case)

Step-by-Step Desktop Cleaning Guide:

1. Shut Down and Unplug Everything
  • Before cleaning, turn off your computer and unplug all cables, including power and peripherals.
2. Dust the Exterior
  • Use a microfiber cloth to wipe dust off the case.
  • Use compressed air to remove dust from USB ports and ventilation grilles.
3. Clean the Keyboard and Mouse
  • Follow the same steps as the laptop keyboard cleaning process.
4. Open the Case (Optional but Recommended for Deep Cleaning)
  • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the side panel.
  • Use compressed air to blow dust out of internal components, such as the CPU fan, GPU, and PSU.
  • Hold fans in place while blowing air to prevent damage.
  • Use a soft-bristle brush to remove stubborn dust.
  • Be mindful of static electricity—use an anti-static wrist strap or discharge yourself before touching internal components.
5. Clean the Monitor
  • Use a microfiber cloth and a screen-safe cleaner to wipe the monitor.
  • Avoid spraying liquid directly on the screen—always spray onto the cloth first.
  • Do not use vinegar on monitors, as it can damage the anti-glare coating. Stick to manufacturer-approved screen cleaners.
6. Reassemble and Plug Everything Back In
  • Once everything is clean and dry, put the side panel back on, reconnect your cables, and power up your computer.

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Final Thoughts

Regularly cleaning your laptop and desktop computer helps maintain their performance, prolongs their lifespan, and keeps your workspace sanitary. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in avoiding costly repairs and replacements. Make it a habit to clean your devices at least once a month for the best results.

Have any favorite cleaning products or tips? Message us on social media and let us know! Facebook, X, LinkedIn

Contact us if you are interested in IT Services for your small to medium size Southeast Michigan Business.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to clean a computer screen?

Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with a screen-safe cleaner or distilled water. Avoid using vinegar, Windex, or spraying liquid directly on the screen.

Is it safe to use compressed air on my laptop or desktop?

Yes, compressed air is ideal for removing dust from vents, keyboards, and internal components. Hold fans in place to prevent them from spinning too fast.

Can I clean my computer while it’s plugged in?

No. Always power down and unplug your device before cleaning to avoid electric shock or damage.

What products should I avoid when cleaning my computer?

Avoid household cleaners like Windex, vinegar, or ammonia-based solutions. Also avoid paper towels, cotton swabs inside ports, and vacuum cleaners inside your PC case.
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