How to Clean Your Devices Without Damaging Them

Simple tips to safely clean your phone, laptop, tablet, and accessories

Dust, fingerprints, and grime can build up on your devices over time—but cleaning them the wrong way can cause damage. This guide will help you clean your tech safely using everyday tools and gentle techniques.

🧼 1. What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these safe cleaning supplies:

• Microfiber cloth (soft and lint-free)

• Isopropyl alcohol (70% or less)

• Cotton swabs or soft brushes

• Compressed air (optional)

• Distilled water (for mixing with alcohol if needed)

Avoid: Paper towels, window cleaner, bleach, or spraying liquids directly on your device.

📱 2. Cleaning Your Phone or Tablet

• Turn off your device and unplug any cables

• Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with alcohol or alcohol/water mix

• Gently wipe the screen, back, and sides—avoid ports and openings

• Use a dry cotton swab to clean around buttons and charging ports

Tip: Never spray cleaner directly onto your screen.

💻 3. Cleaning Your Laptop

• Shut down and unplug your laptop

• Use compressed air to blow dust out of the keyboard and vents

• Wipe the screen with a dry microfiber cloth

• For stubborn smudges, use a lightly dampened cloth with alcohol

• Clean the keyboard and touchpad gently—avoid getting moisture under the keys

Tip: Tilt your laptop slightly to let dust fall away while using compressed air.

🖱️ 4. Cleaning Accessories (Mouse, Keyboard, Headphones)

• Wipe surfaces with a microfiber cloth and alcohol solution

• Use cotton swabs to clean between keys or around buttons

• Remove earbud tips and clean separately with warm water

• Let everything dry fully before reconnecting

⚠️ 5. Safety Reminders

• Always power off and unplug devices before cleaning

• Never soak or submerge electronics

• Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths

• Let devices dry completely before turning them back on

🧠 6. When to Clean

• Weekly: Wipe screens and keyboards

• Monthly: Deep clean ports, fans, and accessories

• As needed: After illness, travel, or heavy use

📞 Need Help?

We offer remote and in-person tech support for seniors, farms, and small businesses in Central Alberta—including device cleaning, tune-ups, and safety checks.

• Visit: www.fieldandruraltechservices.online

• Email: connect@fieldandruraltechservices.online

• Call: 587-306-3444

• First session is free!