Chromebooks quickly became staples in households with children, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic forcing many families to attend school virtually. However, like all electronics, they need proper cleaning and disinfection in order to work correctly and stop the spread of germs. Luckily, we’re here to help. Keep reading to find out how to properly clean and disinfect a Chromebook to ensure it doesn’t become a hotbed for viruses as well as lasting as long as possible.
Before getting into exactly how to clean a Chromebook, it’s important to note what you shouldn’t use. Avoid harsh cleaners like Ajax or sprays containing bleach. These products will rub off the ink used on keys, remove the finish on screens, and can cause severe damage to the motherboard. Next, make sure you don’t spray chemicals directly onto the screen or keyboard area. Extremely susceptible to moisture, directly spraying chemicals onto a Chromebook can cause irreversible damage. Next, make sure the device is powered off before beginning the cleaning process. Finally, ditch the paper towels and invest in a microfiber cloth to avoid fibers getting stuck in the little nooks and crannies on the screen or keyboard.
There are two primary methods used for cleaning Chromebooks depending on whether or not one wants to use chemicals or natural alternatives. While specially-formulated disinfectant wipes ensure adequate cleaning and disinfection of a variety of surfaces, including Chromebooks, others opt to use household staples such as vinegar and rubbing alcohol to get the same effects. Depending on how much you value convenience, it’s completely up to you to decide which method is right for you, with both working well.
For those who decide to use electronic disinfection wipes, follow these steps:
Carefully wipe the screen with a dry microfiber cloth or electronic wipe to remove any grime and smudges.
Using a disinfectant wipe, carefully rub the keyboard, trackpad, top, back, and sides of the Chromebook.
Reopen the Chromebook and allow it to completely dry before using.
For those who want a more natural cleaning method with vinegar and rubbing alcohol, follow these steps, remembering to allow the Chromebook to completely dry before use:
Body, Keyboard, and Trackpad:
Lightly dab a microfiber cloth with rubbing alcohol. You’ll want the cloth barely damp.
Wipe down the keyboard and trackpad with the cloth.
Place slightly more rubbing alcohol on the cloth and wipe down the exterior of the Chromebook.
Screen:
Wipe the screen with a dry microfiber cloth.
Mix a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle.
Spray the solution onto the microfiber cloth, never directly onto the Chromebook.
Wipe the screen with horizontal strokes.
Finally, if you use a headset or your child uses school headphones, you’ll certainly want to make sure to clean and disinfect them regularly as well. As with the Chromebooks themselves, you can use either disinfectant wipes or the vinegar/rubbing alcohol combo, making sure to pay special attention to the section that goes directly into or onto the ear by using a toothpick or cotton swab to remove gunk.
Remember, the key to keeping a Chromebook and school headphones in great working order is to regularly and properly clean and disinfect both products. This ensures the item not only lasts but also doesn’t become a hotbed for bacteria and viruses. Get to cleaning that Chromebook and experience the difference that clean electronics can have on your life!