It’s that time of the year – bug’s and flu season. I have already been stuck at home (last week) with the bug which seems to be sweeping the nation. I can tell you, it wasn’t much fun, but I am back on form now.

This leads me onto my annual reminder to all readers of the Blogberry and customers, that your computer is filthy dirty! 

Dust sitting on a computer screen

It may not look like it, but there is plenty of nasty bacteria, dust, and other stuff lurking on the mouse, keyboard and screen.

If you’re young, or your children use the same computer you do, or you’re a silver surfer (senior citizen) you do need to pay attention – these categories of users are particularly vulnerable to infection.

Finally, do be aware that if you have a cleaner, they sometimes avoid even touching or cleaning your computer for fear of breaking it, so it maybe the case that you have to clean it yourself.

Here is how to best clean your computer

Step 1: Turn everything off, and disconnect from the mains. If you have a laptop, take out the battery.

Step 2: Only use an alcohol based cleaner. No bleaches or heavy duty cleaners, just use your regular around the home anti-bacterial cleaner. Anything too strong may leave a stain or damage your screen. Also, do not use any cleaners that contain ammonia or abrasive ingredients.

Step 3: When cleaning your PC, do not squirt he cleaner directly onto the screen, keyboard or mouse. Spray some onto a soft (as you can get) cleaning cloth. Do not soak it.

Step 4: For cleaning your keyboard, the best way is to turn the keyboard over and shake it upside-down for a minute or so. You may be surprised at what drops out. Then use your cleaner and cloth routine on it.

Step 5: For other hard to reach places, use an air-duster (available from just about any stationary or cleaning shop). Alternatives include a vacuum cleaner. If you have a PC tower make sure you whip the vacuum around the back too. If you are going to use a vacuum cleaner, use the little nozzle attachment with the brushes on (finally a use for that!).

Step 6: Having cleaned your PC , let it stand, unplugged still, for a least 10 minutes before use. This will allow any remaining cleaning fluids to evaporate.

Finally, as I said last year “there is of course a digital urban legend that I occasionally hear:

Customer: “I clean my computer screen with hot soapy water.”
thetechangel: “Water and electricity… need I say more?”

Tags: Battery, Clean, Digital