Handwashing has been taken to a whole new level during the coronavirus pandemic. Never have we been so aware of disinfecting surfaces, keeping our hands clean, and not touching our face.
But what about the surfaces that we touch the most often every day?
Our faces, fingers, and hands are on computers, tablets, and mobile phones a good part of the day. And these types of surfaces can pass the virus if contaminated.
According to studies, the coronavirus can live on certain surfaces for up to 5 days.
Stainless steel, glass, and plastic are all common materials that make up the outer casings and screens of computers and mobile devices. According to WebMD, the lifespan of the virus on each surface can be up to:
- Stainless Steel: 3 days
- Plastics: 3 days
- Glass: 5 days
As part of your COVID-19 routine, you should regularly clean and disinfect computers, keyboards, mice, and mobile devices.
Our Two River Computer support team has put together tips on the best ways to disinfect your devices without harming them.
Tips for Disinfecting Your Electronics
To clean your electronics properly, there are some Do’s and Do Not’s that you need to know. These relate to the types of things used for cleaning your devices.
DO NOT USE:
- Water
- Bleach
DO USE:
- Products containing at least 70% Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol-based cleaning wipes
To do a thorough cleaning you’ll want to also use air to get crumbs, dust, etc. out of keyboards and computer and laptop case areas.
Here are some of the supplies that you’ll want to have on hand before you begin your sanitizing:
- Compressed air
- 70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol or Alcohol-based wipes
- Microfiber cloth
- Microfiber cleaning swabs (for keyboard)
What’s a microfiber cloth?
When cleaning electronics you want to use a microfiber cleaning cloth rather than something like paper towels (that can leave pieces behind).
A microfiber cloth is designed to absorb and remove things like oil, dust, and dirt without leaving lint behind. They also won’t scratch your screens.
Does 70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol Kill Coronavirus?
Yes, alcohol solutions that are at least 70% alcohol can kill the coronavirus. It’s recommended that you do not dilute the alcohol solution and let it sit on the surface for at least 30 seconds to disinfect it.
While alcohol typically won’t harm surfaces, it can discolor some types of plastic.
Now, we’ll go through each type of device below with steps on how to do a thorough cleaning and sanitizing.
How to Clean Computer & Laptop Screens
- All electronics should be unplugged, which includes your monitor.
- First, wipe the screen with a clean microfiber cloth to remove dust and smudges.
- Be careful not to press too hard on a laptop screen, as these can be more fragile than a monitor.
- Using a circular motion can help remove stubborn smudges.
- Never spray alcohol or another liquid directly on your computer or laptop screen.
- Use another clean microfiber cloth with a small amount of 70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol or a 70%+ alcohol cleaning wipe.
- Wipe down your entire screen and be sure to get the edges.
How to Clean Keyboards
- Electronics, again, should be completely unplugged, if you’re using a battery powered keyboard, power it off.
- Use a can of compressed air to gently clean the areas in and around the keys.
- Be sure to read the instructions carefully, i.e. compressed air should not be shaken.
- If cleaning a laptop keyboard, also get the crevices between the keyboard/bottom and the screen, as they can often collect dust and dirt.
- Wipe the entire keyboard down with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Never spray alcohol or another liquid directly on your keyboard.
- Apply a small amount of the 70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol to a microfiber cleaning swab (looks something like a Q-Tip) and use this to carefully clean/sanitize the keys on the keyboard.
- Using a larger cloth can cause additional alcohol solution to pool between keys, so it’s better to use a swab.
- Allow to set for at least 30 seconds before wiping with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
How to Clean a Computer Mouse
- Disconnect the mouse from the computer and power it down if it’s battery powered.
- Wipe down the mouse with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Use compressed air to blow dirt & dust out of the wheel and controller areas.
- Use another clean microfiber cloth with a small amount of 70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol or a 70%+ alcohol cleaning wipe.
- Wipe down your entire mouse to clean/disinfect it.
How to Clean Tablets and Smartphones
- Power off tablets and smartphones before cleaning and remove them from their cases. You’ll be cleaning both the case and the device.
- First, wipe the device and the case with a clean microfiber cloth to remove dust and smudges.
- Using a circular motion can help remove stubborn smudges.
- Use another clean microfiber cloth with a small amount of 70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol or a 70%+ alcohol cleaning wipe.
- Wipe down your entire device and its case to clean/disinfect them.
- Allow to dry at least 30 seconds before putting the device back in the case.
Get Help Remotely While You’re Stuck at Home
Just because you have to stay inside due to COVID-19, doesn’t mean you can’t get great tech support. Two River Computer offers expert remote support, no visit needed!
Contact us today to schedule your remote support session. Call 732-747-0020 or reach us online.
