The 6 must-do moves to make your laptop look like new

The truth is that laptops need more frequent cleaning than desktop computers, mainly due to their frequent use.

Especially if you travel often or take your laptop back and forth, you should clean it at least once a month, since the accumulation of dust and dirt –-especially on the screen and keys-– may damage its function.

The 6 must-do moves to make your laptop look like new

First, before you start cleaning, you should always turn off and disconnect the device from any power source. Even better, it would be to remove the battery.

1. Screen cleaning

Clean the dust from the screen, using a microfiber cloth. Clean the entire width of the screen, front and back. Do not apply pressure to remove stubborn spots or scrub the screen as this can cause irreparable damage.

2. Natural cleaner

Use a damp sponge to remove dirt. Prefer clean or distilled water, as tap water will leave streaks on your screen. Be sure to wring the sponge well, of course, so that there is no water dripping. Wipe your screen gently and do not rub hard.

You could also make your own natural cleaner by mixing equal parts distilled water and white vinegar. For particularly stubborn spots, add just a drop of liquid dish soap to the water. Do not clean interior ports or air vents with the sponge, as this may damage its components.

3. Keyboard

Shake off the dust from your keyboard. Turn it upside down with the screen open to remove any accumulated dust and food crumbs. Shake it gently to remove any larger particles.

4. Dust with a handheld vacuum

Use a handheld vacuum to suck up dust from your keyboard. Do not use a vacuum cleaner, as this can damage the keyboard.

5. Eraser for hard-to-reach areas

Gently rub the keyboard with an eraser to remove any dirt that may have accumulated from your fingers. If you look at the keys from an angle, you will see which areas are dirtiest.

If you find spots that are “sticky” from drink drops and cannot be removed with gentle cleaning, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, but not too wet.

Do not apply pressure between the keys with the cotton swab as moisture can build up under the keys.

6. Cotton swab and toothpick

An alternative option to clean the keys from dirt and dust is to use a cotton swab. The toothpick is also a useful tool, especially in the slots, but it requires great care to avoid causing scratches.

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