How to Clean a Laptop

All types of computers in general over a period of use will be dirty. However, laptops (notebooks) need to be cleaned more often due to their mobility. Especially if you have to carry your laptop around often, you should clean your laptop at least once a month. Accumulation of dirt and grime, especially on the screen and keyboard, can affect the operation of the machine. Remember to turn off the computer and unplug it before you start cleaning, and also remove the battery if possible. ^{[1] X Research Source}

Table of Contents

Clean the screen

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/c/c3/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-1-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-1-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/c3/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-1-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-1-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Clean the dust on the screen surface with a fine cloth. You will fold the cleaning cloth and wipe it back and forth gently across the width of the screen. Hold the screen firmly with your other hand so that it does not shift while cleaning.

Don’t press hard on the screen or try to pick up stubborn dirt – you could damage the screen. Remember to only use gentle force to clean the dust on the surface.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/b/b8/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-2-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-2-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b8/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-2-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-2-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use a damp sponge to clean dirt and hate. You will dip the sponge in the water and wring it out. Use filtered or distilled water instead of tap water. Tap water may leave mineral stains on the screen. Wipe the screen gently, taking care to use very light force – don’t try to rub it hard. ^{[2] X Research Source}

You can also use commercially available wet wipes. Note that you should use one that does not contain strong cleaners such as ammonia or bleach to avoid damage to the screen.
Water can seep in and damage the internal components of the computer, so be sure to squeeze out the excess water from the towel before wiping.
For very stubborn stains, you can add a drop of mild dishwashing liquid to the cleaning solution. If you’re using a computer with a touch screen, you should consult the user manual or the instructions on the manufacturer’s website to see what cleaners can be used.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/84/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-3-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-3-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/84/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-3-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-3-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Invest in a screen cleaning kit for dirtier screens. You can buy screen cleaning kits online or at any store that sells electronic devices and computers. This kit includes a bottle of specialized detergent for computers and usually comes with a specialized fine cloth cleaning cloth. If you’re using a touchscreen, you should double-check to make sure the kit is touchscreen-safe. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

Do not use ordinary glass cleaners, especially those containing ammonia, to clean the computer screen. They can damage the screen.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/2/2f/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-4-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-4-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2f/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-4-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-4-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Polish in a circular motion to remove water streaks. After cleaning the screen, use a soft cloth and gently wipe it again with a circular motion. Doing so will help remove streaks or dots left by the sponge. ^{[4] X Research Sources}

Start wiping from the top corner of the screen and continue wiping in circular motions all the way to the top of the screen, then continue to wipe back and forth until the end.

Clean the keyboard

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/0/0d/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-5-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-5-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0d/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-5-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-5-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Shake the dust off the keyboard. Open the computer monitor, hold the sides firmly, and turn the computer upside down. Shake gently to let large dirt fall out. You can also tilt the computer to the sides in turn to let the dirt trapped under the keyboard escape. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

If you haven’t cleaned your computer for a long time or if you often use the computer while eating, you should shake the computer above the dustbin to let the dirt fall directly there.
If you have just cleaned the computer screen, after shaking the dust off the keyboard, you should use a fine cloth to wipe the screen again because dust falling from the keyboard may stick to the screen.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/2/26/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-6-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-6-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/26/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-6-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-6-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and hair from the keyboard. If you have a small handheld vacuum cleaner, you can use the smallest nozzle to suck up dirt on the computer keyboard without causing damage to the machine. Pass the tip slowly through the keys, row by row from top to bottom. ^{[6] X Research Source}

You can also use a can of compressed air to blow away dirt. However, if you use this method, you should tilt the keyboard at a suitable angle to be able to blow dust out. If you spray compressed air directly on the keyboard, you will blow the dirt deeper inside, especially with the MacBook’s keyboard because they communicate with the inside of the machine. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

Tip: If using a can of compressed air, tilt the computer at a 75-degree angle or tilt it to the side. Doing so will help blow the dirt under the keys out without pushing them deep inside.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/88/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-7-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-7-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/88/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-7-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-7-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use a pencil eraser to remove dirt from the keys. If you look at the keys from an angle, you will find that the dirt and hate from the fingers clings a lot. Use a pencil eraser and gently remove the stains. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

After scrubbing with a pencil eraser, you should use a vacuum cleaner to vacuum the keyboard again to remove the eraser debris.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/f/f8/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-8-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-8-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f8/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-8-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-8-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Clean the space between the keys with a cotton swab. You will notice that not only on the top but also dirt accumulates on the side of the keys. Small cotton swabs are great for cleaning these areas. If the keyboard is very dirty, you can dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol to clean it. ^{[9] X Research Source}

Be careful not to get the cotton swab too wet. Do not press too hard while wiping to avoid alcohol seeping under the keys and getting inside.
You can also dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol to wipe the surface of the keys, especially those with a lot of dirt that a pencil eraser can’t clean.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/73/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-9-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-9-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/73/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-9-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-9-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Wipe the keys with a damp cloth. You will use a fine cloth dipped in distilled water or a cleaning solution made from water and rubbing alcohol in equal proportions to moisten, squeeze out the water before wiping the keyboard. Gently wipe the cover of the keys – remember not to press them down. ^{[10] X Research Source}

After wiping with a damp cloth, you will wipe the keyboard again with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/5/56/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-10-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-10-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/56/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-10-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-10-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Remove the keys if you know how to reassemble them. Sometimes, removing the keycaps is the only way to remove all the dirt and grime that has accumulated under the keys. This is very common if you have never cleaned your computer or often sit at the computer while eating. However, the key covers are quite difficult to remove and reassemble depending on the design of each machine. ^{[11] X Research Source}

It is recommended that you take a photo of the keyboard before removing it for reference when reinstalling them. When you remove all the keys, it’s easy to forget where they are, especially the function keys.

Cleaning the case

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/42/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-11-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-11-Version-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/42/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-11-Version-4.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-11-Version-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use a mild detergent solution. You will mix a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid with filtered or distilled water. You can also mix rubbing alcohol with filtered or distilled water in equal proportions. Do not use ordinary cleaning solutions or harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia to clean the case.

If you use alcohol to clean, be careful not to let this solution come into contact with the computer screen. It can destroy the anti-glare and anti-scratch layer on the screen.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/74/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-12-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-12-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/74/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-12-Version-3.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-12-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Dip the sponge in the cleaning solution. You will take a clean sponge and dip it in the cleaning solution, then squeeze out the water. Even after squeezing, you should also check to make sure that there is no water dripping from the sponge, and then gently wipe around the case. ^{[12] X Research Source}

You can also use this sponge and cleaning solution to clean the touchpad on the device.
Do not use a sponge to clean the inside of the ports or sockets to avoid water getting inside and damaging the internal components.

Alternatively: You can also use a melamine sponge, such as Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, to clean the computer case. When using these sponges, be gentler as they are mildly abrasive and can scratch the top coat. Usually you should moisten them with water before wiping, but no other cleaning solution is needed.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/d/db/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-13-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-13-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/db/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-13-Version-3.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-13-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use a cotton swab to clean dirt in the crevices. If the computer has a lot of seams and crevices, dirt will accumulate there. You can dip a cotton swab in the cleaning solution to clean these areas. ^{[13] X Research Source}

As with using a sponge, you need to make sure the cotton swab is not too wet; Wipe gently so as not to force moisture into the machine.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/85/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-14-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-14-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/85/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-14-Version-3.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-14-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Remove dirt with a toothpick if necessary. If the narrow slots, ports or vents are clogged with dirt, you can use a toothpick gently and pull the dirt out. Move the toothpick in an outward sweeping motion to avoid pushing the dirt deep inside. ^{[14] X Research Source}

Be gentle when using a toothpick to avoid scratching the case. You need to hold the toothpick slightly tilted, like holding a pencil instead of pointing straight down.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/d/dd/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-15-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-15-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-15-Version-3.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-15-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Blow off dirt with compressed air. You will hold a can of compressed air at an angle and spray it into the ports or vents you want to clean. Rotate the computer and spray air at different angles for a thorough cleaning. ^{[15] X Research Source}

Do not spray compressed air directly into ports and air vents. Doing so will cause dirt to pop out, push deep inside and damage components.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/a/a9/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-16-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-16-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a9/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-16-Version-3.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-16-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Use rubbing alcohol to remove stubborn stains. If there is an extremely sticky spot on the machine and it is difficult to clean when gently wiping, use a cotton ball, dipped in cleaning alcohol and rub it directly on the dirty area. Make sure the cotton pad is not too wet to prevent the cleaning alcohol from getting into the machine. ^{[16] X Research Source}

Wipe with moderate force, wiping again and again until the stain is removed.
If you’ve previously stuck stickers on your computer’s case, use oil-based cleaning products, such as Goo Gone.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/80/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-17-Version-3.jpg/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop- Step-17-Version-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/80/Clean-a-Laptop-Step-17-Version-3.jpg/ v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-Step-17-Version-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:” <div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Wipe the case with a smooth cloth. When cleaning the case is complete, you can use a fine cloth and wipe the entire case again in a circular motion. This will help remove moisture as well as any remaining wipes on the machine. ^{[17] X Research Source}

When the computer case is clean, you may discover some dirty dots that were not visible before. Use a cotton ball or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean them.

Advice

Use hand sanitizer before touching the computer to reduce dust and hate sticking to the keyboard. ^{[18] X Research Sources}

Warning

Do not spray cleaning solution directly on any part of the computer. Spray on the cleaning cloth or sponge first, then use them to gently clean the machine. ^{[19] X Research Source}
Do not allow moisture to remain on electronic devices. After cleaning your computer, make sure all parts of the computer are completely dry before you plug it in and turn it on. ^{[20] X Research Sources}

Things you need

Handheld vacuum cleaner
Compressed air tank (optional)
Smooth fabric
Clean sponge
Cotton swab/cotton
Eraser
Toothpick
Dishwashing liquid
Cleaning alcohol
Filtered or distilled water

Steps