McMahonWeb

Well, maybe I should have titled this “Cleaning Your Laptop”, but this works on other things, including my iPhone.

I have many people ask me how to best clean their laptops, desktops, and other computer electronics.  As you may know, there are many solutions sold at most gadget stores.  Usually, these solutions are for cleaning LCDs, and contain isopropyl alcohol mixed with water.

However, many manufacturers do not recommend the use of chemicals.  Companies such as Apple, recommend that when cleaning their screens, you use only water, or if necessary, a mild glass cleaner.

My solution is similar to what Apple suggests, but I make a slight modification.  When dampening a lint free cloth, I recommend you use very warm or hot water.  The reason for this is that hot water evaporates much faster, and is therefore less likely to cause streaking or drops left from the water.  It’s also good not to over dampen the cloth, since it leaves more water on the electronics. If possible, filtered water works best.

This solution is effective on all my computers, my phone, iPod, etc.

For those of you who happen to have a white macbook (you know, one of the most popular laptops ever), there is an extra step for getting that discoloration off of the palm rests (and anywhere else).

It’s called the “Mr Clean Magic Eraser“, and it rocks.  I have repeatedly brought the shiny white happiness back to my wife’s laptop.

NOTE: Since this product must have some abrasive qualities, don’t ever use it on your screen. Also, I have never used it on any laptop other than a macbook, and it may damage other surfaces.  Consider yourself warned.

If you know of any tricks and tips to better clean electronics, leave a comment.