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Keeping Your Electronic Devices Clean: A Guide to Proper Maintenance
In today's digital age, our electronic devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, many of us overlook the importance of keeping these devices clean, especially when it comes to hygiene and longevity.
According to recent studies, only 2% of people clean their computers once a week, and a mere 6% of German smartphone users clean the surface of their phones daily. This negligence can lead to a buildup of dust, germs, and dirt, potentially affecting the performance and lifespan of our devices.
The condition of the device matters significantly, with scratches on the glass potentially allowing germs to settle more easily. But fear not, as maintaining a clean and hygienic device is easier than you might think.
Notebooks (Laptops)
For optimal maintenance, laptops should be cleaned weekly, focusing on dust and fingerprints. A microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or a screen-safe cleaner is ideal for this purpose. Internally (fans, vents), these areas should be dusted every few months, possibly using compressed air. However, excessive moisture should be avoided to prevent damage.
Smartphones and Tablets
These devices should be cleaned daily or several times a week if frequently handled. A soft microfiber cloth with a small amount of water or electronics-safe cleaner like Kurin Water is perfect for gently wiping screens and cases. Harsh chemicals should be avoided, and liquids should never be sprayed directly onto the device.
Monitors
Monitors should be dusted weekly and smudges cleaned monthly. A dry microfiber cloth is suitable for dusting, while for smudges, use screen-safe cleaning sprays or a dampened microfiber cloth. Avoid ammonia- or alcohol-based cleaners unless specified as safe for the screen to prevent damage.
Keyboards and Mice
Weekly cleaning of keyboards and mice involves wiping surfaces with a microfiber cloth dampened with a mild cleaner suitable for electronics. For keyboards, compressed air can be used regularly to remove debris from between keys. Deep cleaning can be done monthly by carefully cleaning individual keys or using specialized cleaning kits.
General Recommendations
Safe and effective cleaning methods focus on minimizing moisture exposure and abrasion while using appropriate materials. Microfiber cloths are ideal for this purpose, as they avoid scratching and attract dust. Liquids should never be sprayed directly onto devices; instead, cloths should be dampened slightly. Electronics-specific cleaners like Kurin Water or ethanol-based wipes with less than 70% concentration can be used if compatible.
Using harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, or abrasive materials is harmful and should be avoided to preserve device longevity. Such agents can potentially damage the fat-repellent coating of touch screens and cause damage in gaps or inside the device. Cleaning agents based on alcohol, glass cleaners, or disinfectants can damage devices and their components.
With laptops, the ventilation slots and fan should be occasionally checked and cleaned with compressed air. Screen cleaning cloths are effective for removing heavier dirt from monitors and displays. Soapy water can help remove greasy film from the keyboard and mouse, but the cloth should be lightly dampened to avoid damage.
Following these guidelines keeps devices clean, hygienic, and functioning properly. By adopting a regular cleaning routine and using appropriate cleaning methods, you can ensure that your electronic devices serve you well for years to come.
Home-and-Garden
To keep your home clean and hygienic, it's essential to maintain the cleanliness of the electronic devices that have become integral parts of your lifestyle.
Gadgets
In addition to the smartphones and tablets you carry, gadgets like notebooks, monitors, keyboards, and mice also require regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of dust, germs, and dirt.
Technology
Uphold the integrity of your technology investments by following proper cleaning guidelines, as these methods not only improve the hygiene but also contribute to the longevity of your devices.
