Though giving laptops a much-needed deep cleaning is tempting, choosing the right products can be stressful. After all, laptops are expensive, and certain chemicals are harsh enough to permanently damage them. Fortunately, dedicated laptop cleaning kits exist.
These kits include sprays, wipes, scratch-free cloths and tools to clean keyboards. Formulas for sprays and wipes are made with gentle yet effective ingredients, some of which are plant-derived. Cloths and devices are also gentle enough to remove surface dirt, dust, hair or crumbs. Here’s what you need to know to find the right kit for your laptop.
A cleaning solution is considered a staple accessory in laptop cleaning kits. Formulas are usually sprayed, though some are gel-based or infused in premoistened wipes. It’s important to compare ingredients to make sure they’re conducive to cleaning the type of screen you have.
Many consumers gravitate toward formulas without alcohol, ammonia or phosphates since these are known to damage screens and surfaces with prolonged use. Some consumers with kids and pets prefer nontoxic or plant-derived formulas.
Microfiber cloths are super soft and won’t scratch or damage screens. They help dissolve oil, pick up dust and remove tiny dirt particles. Microfiber cloths can be used either on their own for simple dusting, or in conjunction with a cleaning solution for deeper cleaning.
Brushes are useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, such as crevices between keys or inside fan vents. Certain brushes have long, far-reaching bristles, while others feature dual-sided designs. These may have bristles of different materials (such as plastic and silicone) to offer more than one method of cleaning.
Air-blowing tools are either compressed air cans or hand-operated blowing devices. Compressed air cans offer an exceptional cleaning experience, but they’re not as cost-effective as blowing devices. In fact, the gentleness of blowing devices is a good thing because their lower pressure means they’re less likely to damage fragile electronics.
Those who travel with their laptops — whether to a cafe or on a plane — may choose antibacterial cleaning solutions to keep germs at bay. Some people prefer using plant-based solutions since they’re nontoxic, alcohol-free and low-odor. Unfortunately, they’re far less effective at sanitizing.
Keyboard vacuums are adept at removing virtually anything that gets caught between keys: crumbs, hair, dust and dander. They have slender nozzles to seamlessly maneuver between keys without causing them to pop off. Laptop users who are heavy beverage drinkers may prefer wet/dry vacuums capable of cleaning up accidental spills.
Cleaning gel consists of a gooey, malleable compound that’s sticky enough to remove surface dirt from keyboards. The gel offers a quick, mess-free cleaning method, though it isn’t as far-reaching as brushes or vacuums. Many of these gels are nontoxic, eco-friendly, and biodegradable.
Single products or kits that contain a couple of cleaning items cost $10 or less. Laptop cleaning kits closer to $20 typically include improved formulas, wipes, cloths and some cleaning tools. Those priced above $25 may come with keyboard-cleaning vacuums.
A. They are, provided they’re used appropriately. Cans stipulate how far away to hold them from devices during sprays and how to spray them — a series of short bursts of air or a single stream. Unfortunately, there are a few chemicals in compressed air cans. If they leak onto skin, it may result in a chemical burn.
A. Many laptop cleaning kits can be used on consoles. That said, refrain from using the cleaning solution near the disc trays and cartridge holes. Their chemicals, even gentle ones, may damage internal components.
What you need to know: It is a comprehensive set that provides several options for cleaning laptops as well as devices and phones.
What you’ll love: Alcohol-free formula fights bacteria and is safe for all electronics. Cleaning wipes can be used more than once.
What you should consider: The cleaner is advertised as a “gel,” but some people say it’s more like a liquid.
What you need to know: This affordable plant-based formula that’s a bestseller for its nontoxic formula.
What you’ll love: The formula is free of VOCs and solvents. It leaves a residue-free and streak-free shine. It lasts through 1,500 sprays.
What you should consider: Some users feel the e-wipe cloths could be better quality.
Screen Mom’s Screen Cleaner Kit
What you need to know: This reliable screen and electronic cleaning formula is good at removing stubborn fingerprints.
What you’ll love: It’s safe to use around kids since it’s odorless and free of ammonia and alcohol. It costs less than one cent per use.
What you should consider: The formula is not antibacterial like comparable laptop cleaners.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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