A Guide to Cleaning Your Computer Screen and Keyboard

Electronics are notorious for collecting dirt and debris and your computer screen and keyboard are no exception. If you don’t tend to them on a regular basis, you’ll end up with an unsightly mess and oily smudges ruining your monitor’s display quality. The truth is, with some basic supplies and several minutes of your time, you can keep your device in optimal shape. 

While a reliable house cleaning service in Des Moines will also take proper care of your electronics, you can make sure your screen remains spotless between visits with some handy tips. Read on!

What should I clean my computer screen and keyboard with?

Most of the supplies you’ll need are probably already a part of your arsenal, so let’s see what’s best to use and how:

Tools

For starters, you’ll need a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid using paper towels or cotton rags as they can leave behind dusty debris. You can also invest in pressurized canned air, which you can get at a grocery or electronics store. 

Solutions

As for cleaning solutions, what you should definitely steer clear of is bleach and ammonia-based products. They’re too harsh and can easily damage your computer surfaces. A simple solution of equal parts water and dish soap will do just fine. In addition, rubbing alcohol is a great disinfectant you can use on your keyboard, with the benefit of drying quickly.

The process

Make sure your computer is off and completely unplugged before you start. You don’t want to accidentally wipe out your desktop shortcuts or delete an important document while cleaning the keyboard:

• Use the canned air to remove dirt and debris that’s lingering around the screen edges and under the keys. However, make sure to keep some distance between the nozzle and computer surface and only press in very short bursts of less than a second. 
• Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with alcohol and gently wipe to disinfect the keys. Be careful not to simply wipe over the entire keyboard as the cloth can catch on key edges and tear them off. Instead, dedicate a couple of seconds to each key. 
• To clean the screen, dampen the microfiber cloth with water and see what you can do with just that. Go from the edges inward and apply close to no pressure at all. For any marks or tough stains, go with the solution of water and dish soap. In any case, make sure no liquid drips into the edges of the screen. 

Can I use alcohol wipes to clean the computer screen?

It’s generally recommended not to use any kind of alcohol on your screen as it can damage it. It’s best to stick with the soft microfiber cloth, plain water, and occasional treatment with diluted soap for stubborn stains. However, you can use alcohol wipes to give a light wipe down to your keyboard. 

Can I use Windex on my computer screen?

You should never use any kind of household cleaning products on your screen, Windex included. The substances contained in these products can damage the anti-glare coating and other protective layers and eventually cause permanent damage. 

Looking for a trusted house cleaning service in Des Moines?

Whether it’s time to deep clean your freezer, take care of that living room, give a thorough scrubbing to your bathroom, or you simply don’t have enough time for all the vacuuming and dusting, look no further than phClean. We’re your trusted team of skilled and dedicated cleaning techs, ready to give your home a thorough treatment and leave it sparkling. Spend an inspiring day at the Des Moines Art Center and let our pros do the rest. Call today!