Technology@Wooster

Clean/Disinfect My Devices

Written by

Samantha Mowrer

Safety First

You should always power down a device you would like to clean. Powering down the device can prevent you from making unwanted or accidental alterations with misplaced keystrokes while cleaning. If you plan on arranging and cleaning cords unplugging is highly recommended to prevent a shocking situation. Never take your cleaning to excessive levels, remember you are dealing with electric technology to much moisture can Kill your devices. The goal is to make this experience a habit not a Nightmare.

Recognizing Hardware:

  • Laptop
  • Mobile Technology (Tablet Computer, Smart Phone)
  • Desktop
  • Desktop Computer Tower
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse

Cleaning Supplies Needed:

  • Microfiber cloth/non-abrasive cloth
  • Cleaning Brush
  • Dust-Off Compressed Air (this product can cause burns if used improperly/always read and follow product instructions)
  • Water
  • Touchscreen Safe Solution (some technology providers recommend not using alcohol, always follow the manufactures recommendations)

Cleaning by Device:

Laptop, Keyboard and Mouse:

  1. Make sure your devices are powered down and unplugged.
  2. Gently wipe down the laptop with microfiber cloth.
  3. For smudges and smears that don’t come off, apply water to microfiber NEVER spray or pour anything directly on your device. The cloth should be damp NEVER drenched or dripping.
  4. Use Dust-Off compressed air to clean all ports and around keys.
  5. For items stuck between keys use the Cleaning Brush to loosen and the compressed air to remove it.
  6. Use damp microfiber to wipe down mouse and cord (unless wireless).
  7. Wipe down devices one more time with a clean dry microfiber to remove any excessive moisture.
  8. Congratulations, you have a clean devices!

Mobile Technology (Tablet Computer/Smart Phone):

  1. Make sure the device is powered down and unplugged.
  2. Use Dust-Off compressed air to clean openings.
  3. Make a damp microfiber cloth with touchscreen safe solution.
  4. Wipe down the device and cord, be careful to avoid all openings.
  5. Wipe down device one more time with a clean dry microfiber to remove any excessive moisture.
  6. Congratulations, you have a clean device!

Desktop Computer, Tower, Keyboard and Mouse:

  1. Make sure your devices are powered down and unplugged.
  2. Gently wipe down the monitor, tower, keyboard and mouse with a microfiber cloth.
  3. For smudges and smears that don’t come off, apply alcohol to microfiber NEVER spray or pour anything directly on your device. The cloth should be damp NEVER drenched or dripping.
  4. Use Dust-Off compressed air to clean all ports and around keys.
  5. For items stuck between keys use the Cleaning Brush to loosen and the compressed air to remove it.
  6. Use the damp microfiber to wipe down monitor, tower, keyboard and mouse and cord (unless wireless).
  7. Wipe down devices one more time with a clean dry microfiber to remove any excessive moisture.
  8. Congratulations, you have clean devices!