Keeping You Computer Clean
Our lives are now so full of gadgets, it’s hard to imagine how we ever lived without them. Smartphones, PCs, tablets and all those extra peripherals such as mice and keyboards – they’re all essentials in our daily lives.
Considering how much time we spend using these items, how much time do we spend cleaning them? The answer is simple: not enough. Germs and grime from the hands are being transferred onto home and office gadgets every second that they’re in use.
Keeping your computer and gadgets clean not only makes them more pleasing to use, it also means they will last longer and function more efficiently. Here are some tips on how you can keep all your important gadgets clean and sanitary.
Your computer
Your keyboard attracts the most dirt and debris, especially whenever you eat at your desk. And, let’s face it, we all sneak a snack in while we’re browsing. Several studies have shown that computer keyboards are often dirtier than toilet seats.
To give your keyboard a quick clean, unplug it and remove batteries if it has them, then shake it upside down over a bin to loosen any debris. You can use a can of compressed air to remove stubborn dirt, then use a cotton swab dipped in a little rubbing alcohol to remove any further grime. Finally, use a disinfectant wipe that’s been wrung out to remove excess liquid to wipe the keys down, then a lint-free cloth to remove any moisture.
If your mouse has a tracker ball, remove it then use compressed air to remove any dust that has collected inside the mechanism. Optical mice are less prone to problems, but still need a good clean with a cotton bud from time to time.
For your monitor, you can use specialist display cleaner solutions, but never spray the solution directly onto your monitor. Apply it to a lint-free cloth first, then use the cloth to clean your monitor.
It’s also a good idea to keep the inside of your computer clean. Open up the case and use a can of compressed air to remove any dust, especially around the CPU and any fans. Remember: switch your computer off at the mains before you remove the cover.
Your smartphone or tablet
The best way to clean your smartphone or tablet is by using a lint-free, microfibre cloth. Never use paper towels as they can leave scratches.
For more stubborn stains, dampen the cloth slightly with water then remove the moisture with a dry cloth. Don’t use household cleaners on your smartphone or tablet, since they’re far too harsh and may even be abrasive.
Your digital camera
Make sure the shots you take with your digital camera are not spoilt by debris on the lens. Use a small, soft brush on the lens, or a lens-cleaning solution on a lens tissue. Wipe the camera with a cloth that has been very slightly dampened, but never use a wet cloth on a camera.
Don’t blow or use saliva to clean a lens as substances in saliva can damage the lens’ delicate coating.
Your TV
You can use the same methods to clean your TV. Again, always unplug your TV from the mains before you attempt to clean it, and don’t use water if you can avoid it.
Ask the Pros
Replacing gadgets can be expensive, so in keeping them clean, you’re making sure they remain in perfect operation for as long as possible. Just follow our handy tips to keep your gadgets sanitised and in tip-top condition. If you’ve got a large number of gadgets to clean, or if you need help keeping on top of their cleanliness, contact Efficient Cleaning Kingston to discuss an affordable cleaning contract for your home or office.
