How to Clean a Laptop
Level of difficulty: Easy
Laptops can decrease in performance when dirt builds up inside the ports, the fan, and other openings. The screen of the laptop can also be blurry due to fingerprints. It is recommended to clean a laptop at least once a year. Laptops used outdoors may need to be cleaned frequently. Cleaning the laptop improves the performance and overall appearance of the laptop.
Materials Needed:- Dry cotton cloth
- toothbrush
- damp cotton cloth
- cotton swabs
- compressed air (optional)
Step 1
Make sure that the laptop is turned off before cleaning. Unplug the laptop from the power source and wait for it to cool for a few minutes.
Step 2
Clean the outer case of the laptop using a damp cotton cloth. This gets rid of the dust and other particles that have accumulated on the outer casing of the laptop. Wipe the excess moisture with the dry cotton cloth.
Step 3
Clean the screen of the laptop by wiping it with a damp cotton cloth. This gets rid of the fingerprints on the screen and clears any blurred spots. Dry the screen with the dry cotton cloth.
Step 4
The keyboard of the laptop can become sticky and dirty with continued use. This is caused by the particles that get stuck under the keys. These particles can be removed by spraying compressed air on the keyboard. Carefully position the can of compressed air to target dirt under the keys. Spray the compressed air in different angles to make sure that all the dirt that has built up is eliminated. The crevices between the keys can also be cleaned with a cotton swab if compressed air is not available.
Step 5
Locate the cooling vent of the laptop. The cooling vent is usually located at the side or underneath the laptop. Use the compressed air to get rid of any particles that have accumulated on the cooling vent. Use a cotton swab to wipe dirt off of the crevices.
Step 6
Use a cotton swab to hold the fan inside the cooling vent in place. Carefully spray compressed air on the fan to eliminate dust that has settled. Be careful not to spray too hard so as not to damage the fan.
Step 7
Locate the ports on the laptop. The ports are usually located at the back and at the sides of the laptop. Use the compressed air to remove dust and other particles on the ports. Make sure not to spray the compressed air directly on the holes on the port as this may damage the laptop. A toothbrush can also be used to brush dust-off of the ports.
Step 8
Clean the entire laptop at least once a year to maintain the performance of the laptop.