Regularly cleaning your computer is a useful way to keep it in good working order. Over time, the dust, dirt, stains, hair and particles that a computer accumulates may corrode its circuitry and restrict its airflow.

The frequency with which you clean your computer is largely dependent upon its working environment. Smokers and pet-owners should clean their computers most frequently, generally every two-three months. Computers with multiple users should also be cleaned with this degree of regularity. Otherwise, cleaning every five-six months can ensure that the computer is kept it top shape.

There are some basic rules for cleaning your computer that should, in all cases, be followed. First make sure your computer is turned off before cleaning. You don’t want to run any risks that your cleaning solution or tools might come to impair your machine’s circuitry. Second, administer care in cleaning, as you run the risk of adjusting knobs, controls, and disconnecting some of the computer cables. It might be helpful to disconnect your computer cables prior to cleaning, so that you can give your computer a more thorough cleaning.

When choosing a cleaning tool for your computer, it is important to first check if your model lists specific products to use. This information would generally be found in your product manual, but could also be obtained by calling your computer company.
If there are no specific products required for cleaning your computer, you can use household items. Be advised that some cleaning solvents may damage cases and the plastics in computers, even if highly diluted. Consequently, we recommend water or rubbing alcohol.

Make sure to never squirt or spray your cleaning liquid onto the computer, as stray liquid might get into the hardware and dampen the circuit board. Instead, moisten a cloth, cotton swab, or foam swab with one of the liquids. Swabs are excellent tools for targeting hard-to-reach areas of your computer, such as the gaps in your keyboard. Foam swabs, and other lint-free cloths, are ideal for this type of cleaning.

Vacuums are a good way of sucking out lingering particles. It is advised not to use a standard vacuum, as the static electricity it generates can be detrimental to your computer. A portable, battery-powered vacuum is the best tool to use to get this job done.

Cleaning the computer’s fan can also require some delicacy, particularly if you’re dealing with smaller, laptop fans. It is best to hold the fan in place while cleaning, or place something between the fan blades to prevent it from spinning. Cleaning the blades with a swab is a safe option. It may additionally be possible to spray compressed air or use a vacuum to eliminate trace particles, but these techniques have been proven to damage some fans. It is advised to check with your computer company in advance of administering this treatment.