Clean Electronics

Before taking any cleaning product or tool to remove dirt or dust, always check your owner's manual for any specific instructions on cleaning. Some items may be able to withstand chemicals while others, like a plasma TV, may be ruined by using the wrong procedure for cleaning. Owners manuals are always a good place to start when deciding how to clean a piece of electronics equipment. For larger pieces of electronics, like a computer CPU, using a vacuum's hand attachment can remove almost all visible dust. Be sure to remove dust and debris from any vents, fans or other openings as trespassing particles can be damaging.

Smaller electronics, such as cell phones, should be wiped with a dry, electrostatic cloth. If the item is stained, a slightly water dampened cloth may be used to remove dirt or dust. Be sure the cloth is only slightly dampened as electronics should never be exposed to much moisture. In what seems like a total contradiction to the above, many IT professionals advise using a dishwasher to clean computer keyboards. To clean using this method, unplug the keyboard from the computer and place on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run dishwasher on regular cycle without detergent. Allow keyboard to fully dry (12-24 hours). This is especially helpful if a liquid or other item is spilled onto the keyboard.

Clean your mouse or home telephones using a cotton ball or swab and white vinegar. Not only does the vinegar cut through dirt and grime, but it also disinfects and kills bacteria, too. Don't forget to clean the inside of your mouse, too, if you're using a trackball mouse. Optical mice don't contain track balls.