It is important to keep your computer clean, and these tips will help:
Cleaning Your Monitor
There are special electronic wipes and sprays that you can use to clean computer equipment. They evaporate quickly to avoid leaving too much moisture on sensitive electronics, but it is still wise to spray these solutions on a cloth, never directly on components. Also, some computer monitors have a special film over the screen, which can be damaged by cleaning products. Check the manufacturer’s instructions. If you are worried about using chemical treatments, wipe the screen with a clean, soft cloth that has been slightly dampened with distilled water.
Cleaning Your Keyboard
The simplest way to clean the keyboard is to gently turn it upside down, allowing dust particles, lint, and crumbs to fall out on their own. If this doesn’t do the trick, you can spray in between keys, and in nooks and crannies, with a can of compressed air (keep canned air out of reach of children). You can also purchase a miniature vacuum designed especially for cleaning computers and other sensitive equipment. If something sticky gets on your keyboard, wipe it with a soft, clean cloth slightly dampened with distilled water or with a special electronics cleaning product. If there is a spill, unplug the keyboard and place it upside down on top of an absorbent towel or cloth. Once dry, wipe away any sticky areas, as described above.
Cleaning the Tower
The power tower or “case” contains the parts that make your computer function. It is not a good idea to open the case or try to clean inside it, unless you know what you are doing. Computer parts are prone to easily becoming damaged. If you are not confident in your ability to clean inside the case, ask a knowledgeable friend, or have a professional take care of it for you. Call to get an estimate and to see how often cleaning is recommended. You can still clean the outside, removing dust and debris from vents and slots with a mini vacuum. This helps keep air flowing through your system to keep working parts cool. Heat is one of the most damaging elements to sensitive electronics, and blocked vents create more heat by reducing airflow. It is best to use a mini vacuum instead of compressed air, since canned air may force dust inside the case instead of removing it.