People may not know there’s a safe way to keep electronic devices spick and span. Get rid of accumulated dirt and bacteria without compromising your devices’ functionality. Discover cleaning tips that are electronic-friendly.
Why Keep Electronic Devices Clean
Take a moment and think about how much time you spend using your electronic devices — from cell phones, tablets, and laptops. The everyday usage of these devices exposes them to various sources of grime and dirt.
This makes them the perfect vessels for bacteria. With that, giving them a clean from time to time would not only keep you healthy, but also extend your devices’ lifespan. Find out how to keep your devices in pristine condition without risking damage.
Cell Phone and Tablet
Your cell phone or tablet can easily become a host to dirt and bacteria. With daily use and exposure to various elements, keeping them germ-free can be difficult. Here’s how to keep them clean:
1. Turn off your device.
Before you start spraying cleaning solutions and wiping down your devices, turning them off is important. Make sure your phone or tablet is not connected to a power source.
Doing so will keep you safe from short circuits in case liquids get in any opening. If your device has a protective case, remove and clean it separately.
2. Wipe down using a microfiber cloth.
Avoid using abrasive cloths when wiping down electronic devices. A microfiber cloth is the best option to make sure your devices will remain scratch-free. Keep away from using paper towels when cleaning your devices’ screens.
3. Do not spray the cleaning solution directly on your screen.
If you’re using 70% isopropyl alcohol as your cleaning solution, do not spray it directly on your device. It’s best if you put a small amount on a microfiber cloth and wipe down the dirt thoroughly.
If you prefer disinfecting wipes, wring them slightly to eliminate excess moisture. You want to make sure you’re not using too much of the solution to avoid damage.
Steer clear from aerosol cleaning sprays as they use extra force that may push the dirt deeper within the crevices of your cell phone or tablet. Aerosol sprays may also cause damage to the components.
4. Clean your devices gently.
Do not use excessive force when wiping down the screens of your electronic devices. The right cloth and amount of cleaning solution are more than enough to remove any dirt. Putting too much pressure when wiping might only do more harm than good.
5. Be mindful of openings.
When cleaning your devices, make sure you’re not exposing any openings to the cleaning solution. Avoid contact with any liquid in the charging ports and speakers. You want to avoid exposure to moisture and cause irreparable damage.
6. Let it dry.
Once you’re done cleaning your electronic devices, allow enough time to let them air dry. Doing this step is crucial before you turn on your devices. If you cleaned the protective cases, wipe them dry before putting them back on your cell phone or tablet.
Desktop, Laptop, and Mouse
Laptops and desktops are also prone to dirt accumulation — from animal dander and dust to food particles. Keeping them clean can be a challenge, but here’s how to do it safely.
1. Unplug from the power source.
Similar to your cell phone and tablet, you should power down your computer or laptop before you get to cleaning. If possible, remove the battery as well.
2. Use the right type of cloth.
When cleaning electronic devices, your best option is a microfiber cloth. Using the right cloth will ensure the screens are protected from scratches. Microfiber cloths won’t also leave lint that may get stuck between keycaps and other openings.
3. Avoid too much cleaning solution.
Whether you’re using disinfecting wipes or a microfiber cloth and alcohol, remove the excess liquid. The cloth or wipes should not be dripping to prevent the solution from getting into crevices or under the keycaps of your keyboard.
4. Dry thoroughly.
Use another microfiber cloth to dry your laptop or desktop. Make sure you wipe down all the surfaces and remove any moisture before turning on your electronic devices.
5. Remove individual keys.
If your keyboard has removable keys, remove them one by one for a more thorough cleaning. It will be much easier to remove any dirt that accumulated under and in between the keycaps. You can also wipe down the keys and get to the hard-to-reach areas.
Before you put the keycaps back on, make sure they’re fully dry, and your device is not connected to a charger or any power source.
Keep Your Devices Clean and Damage-Free
Making sure your electronic devices are clean is a must. You may not realize how dirt and grime can affect your devices and your overall experience, but you might be surprised how much things will improve once you clean them on a regular basis.
Aside from keeping them germ-free, it also keeps them running smoothly for longer. Doing this helps you maximize your electronic investments. With the right materials and this helpful guide, you can enjoy a hassle-free cleaning time!
