Keep your computer looking and working great with proper cleaning techniques.
Category: Maintenance & Care | Read time: 3 min | By Midland Computers
Why Clean Your Computer?
A dirty computer isn't just unsightly - it can actually cause problems:
Dust buildup causes overheating
Dirty keyboards can stick or stop working
Grimy screens are harder to read
Bacteria build up on frequently touched surfaces
Cleaning Your Screen
What You Need
A **microfibre cloth** (the same type used for glasses)
Distilled water or screen cleaning solution
A second dry microfibre cloth
How to Clean
**Turn off your monitor** (easier to see smudges on a dark screen)
**Dry wipe first** - gently wipe with a dry microfibre cloth using circular motions
**For stubborn marks** - slightly dampen the cloth with distilled water (never spray directly on the screen)
**Wipe gently** - don't press hard, especially on laptop screens
**Dry immediately** with the second cloth
What NOT to Use
Paper towels or tissues (too abrasive)
Window cleaner or household sprays
Alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners
Tap water (can leave mineral marks)
Cleaning Your Keyboard
Quick Clean (Weekly)
Turn off your computer or disconnect the keyboard
Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake
Use a can of compressed air to blow out debris from between keys
Wipe the key surfaces with a slightly damp microfibre cloth
Deep Clean (Monthly)
Disconnect the keyboard
Use compressed air between all keys
Dampen a cotton bud with isopropyl alcohol
Clean between and around each key
Wipe the entire surface with a damp cloth
Let it dry completely before reconnecting
Laptop Keyboard
Be extra gentle with laptop keyboards
Hold the laptop at an angle and use compressed air
Use a soft brush to sweep debris from between keys
Never remove laptop keys unless you know how to put them back
Cleaning Your Computer Case
Desktop Computer
Turn off and unplug the computer
Wipe the outside with a damp microfibre cloth
Use compressed air to blow dust from vents
If comfortable, open the case and gently blow out internal dust
Laptop
Turn off and unplug the laptop
Wipe the lid and base with a damp cloth
Use compressed air on the vents (hold at an angle, don't blow directly in)
Clean the trackpad with a slightly damp cloth
How Often Should You Clean?
**Screen:** Wipe weekly, deep clean monthly
**Keyboard:** Shake out weekly, deep clean monthly
**Computer case/vents:** Every 3-6 months
**Internal dust cleaning:** Every 12-18 months (professional recommended)
**Due for an internal clean?** Midland Computers offers professional internal cleaning services including thermal paste replacement. This helps prevent overheating and extends your computer's lifespan.