Buzz
Have you ever wondered how many germs are lingering on your Mac's exterior?
Photo courtesy of AppleWhen cleaning your house, it's simple to push the computer aside and clean underneath it. But have you ever thought about cleaning your Mac itself? Many people hesitate because they aren’t sure how to clean MacBook computers without risking their performance. After all, these are pricey gadgets that can easily be damaged by water or chemicals!
Just like your car's steering wheel, your MacBook could be harboring more germs than you realize. Cleaning it is trickier than tidying up the rest of your home. Apple devices are made to appear sleek and spotless, so let’s get your tech looking fresh. This article outlines 5 simple tips to help keep your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro models looking brand new and sanitized.
Tip #5: Cleaning Your Mouse
When cleaning a laptop keyboard, it’s crucial to minimize moisture, as the keys sit directly above the computer's internal components.
Image courtesy of AppleConsider your computer habits. Which part of your Mac do you touch most often? For many, it’s the mouse, meaning it likely carries the most germs. To clean your Mac mouse, first disconnect it by safely ejecting, unplugging, and removing the batteries (depending on your model). Apple recommends using Lysol or Clorox disinfecting wipes for cleaning the device [source: Apple.com].
When cleaning your mouse, always use a soft, lint-free cloth with minimal cleaner. Excessive cleanser may seep into the cracks and permanently damage the mouse. If using a disinfecting wipe, ensure it’s wrung out. When using a cleaner with a cloth, apply the cleaner to the cloth and never spray directly on the mouse.
If your mouse has a track ball, flip it over and gently roll the track ball back and forth on a clean, white sheet of paper. For laser mice, be extra cautious and only clean the laser area with a dry lint-free cloth. Avoid using any cleaning products as they could affect the laser's sensitivity. Lastly, refrain from disassembling the mouse. The Mac Mighty Mouse is glued together, so dismantling it would damage the device permanently [source: Osborne].
Tip #4: The Outside of Your Computer
The exterior of your laptop or desktop can accumulate fingerprints, dust, and germs. If dust enters the vents of your desktop, it could impair the fan's performance and affect other critical components. To clean your Mac, use a soft, lint-free cloth such as a microfiber or a non-abrasive diaper cloth designed for dusting. Be sure to turn off the computer using the power button and unplug it before starting the cleaning process.
Start by using a damp or dry cloth — a Swiffer cloth is a great option — to gently wipe off any dust. For stubborn dirt or smudges, you can use a gentle cleaner. Apple advises against using aerosol sprays, bleach, solvents, or abrasives, as they could harm the finish [source: Apple.com].
Just like when cleaning your mouse, be careful not to allow any moisture to seep into the cracks or openings of your Mac. Even if the moisture is a result of cleaning, Apple’s warranties do not cover water damage.
While you're cleaning the exterior of your Mac, don't forget the interior. Clearing out unnecessary files such as cache, junk, and language files can free up valuable storage space and improve performance. Use this opportunity to uninstall apps you no longer need, tidy your downloads folder, review system settings, and empty the trash. Consider transferring large files like photos and videos to an external hard drive, and deleting unused fonts, apps, iChat logs, and mail attachments.
Tip #3: Disinfecting Your Mac's Keyboard
When cleaning a keyboard, it is essential to use minimal moisture to avoid damage.
Image courtesy of AppleChances are you don't wash your hands before using your MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, and you’ve probably had a snack or two while working. So it’s no surprise that your keyboard could use a thorough cleaning. Compressed air works wonders for clearing small debris between the keys.
Once again, grab a soft, lint-free cloth along with a mild cleanser. If you're working with an external keyboard, remember to disconnect it and remove the batteries if it’s wireless. Be extra cautious when cleaning the keyboard, as too much pressure or a frayed cloth with loose threads could dislodge the keys. It’s best to clean each section of the keyboard by gently pressing the keys on either side, one bridge at a time.
When cleaning a laptop keyboard, it’s essential to minimize moisture usage, as the keys are positioned directly above critical internal components. Excess moisture can leak down into the keys and cause water damage. After disinfecting, make sure to wipe down the keyboard again with a slightly damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaner, which could damage the finish.
Tip #2: De-gritting Your Laptop Trackpad
The trackpad on your MacBook is quite sensitive and requires extra care during cleaning. Apple explicitly advises against using cleaning products like window cleaner, alcohol, or ammonia on the trackpad [source: Apple.com]. Instead, use a barely damp, lint-free soft cloth with water and wipe off any excess moisture with a dry, clean cloth of the same material.
If your white MacBook trackpad has become discolored, there's a potential fix. While Apple doesn’t officially recommend this method, some tech enthusiasts suggest using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser to gently buff away the grime and restore the trackpad’s original white appearance.
Tip #1: How to Keep Your Screen Gleaming
Your Mac's screen, whether on a desktop or laptop, is just as fragile as its trackpad. To clean it, gently use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water. Apple advises against using glass cleaners such as Windex or any product containing alcohol. The safest approach is to simply wipe the screen with a clean cloth moistened with a little water. Be cautious to prevent excess moisture from reaching sensitive areas like the microphone, camera, or other openings, as this could cause damage to your device.
If water alone doesn’t do the trick, consider using a screen cleaner designed for Macs — Monster iClean. Available at the Apple Store, it's the only cleaner and cloth combo approved for safe use on Mac screens.
How to Clean Your MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
Cleaning your Mac doesn’t have to take much time to be effective. As you go through these tips, take a moment to also gently wipe down the touch bar and power adapter, ensuring that no dust or particles have settled around your workspace.
By using the appropriate tools mentioned above and ensuring that no soapy water or liquid enters any cracks, you can keep your MacBook looking clean and refreshed.
While your iPhone and iPad are designed to resist oil, fingerprints inevitably appear on both. So, as you clean your Mac, don’t overlook giving your iPhone and iPad some attention too. A dry, lint-free cloth should remove most fingerprints. For tougher spots, use a tiny bit of water, being careful not to let moisture get into any openings. Avoid using glass cleaners or other products, as they may damage the touch screen or finish.
