How to Clean Inside your Computer Case Safely

How often do you clean your computer case, inside and out? Did you realize that having a clean computer is a necessity for the system to run at its optimal levels? Having dust and dirt build up inside your computer case can restrict the airflow and cause serious damage to your components. One common example is when dust gathers on the heat sink and fan. If left there it can eventually cause the processor to overheat and shutdown the computer without warning.

The main factor to consider when you clean inside your computer case is safety. You will first need to be familiar with how to open computer cases and the precautions you have to take. There are important steps to complete before starting to clean your system like removing all plugs from the computer and certain preparation to make sure you do not damage the components inside your computer case.

Safety Tips for Cleaning Inside Your Computer

When it comes to cleaning the inside of your computer, safety is paramount. Follow these tips to ensure you don’t damage your computer or put yourself at risk:

1. Prioritize Safety:

• Follow each step carefully to avoid damaging the computer components.
• Since a computer is an electrical device, cleaning it is usually best left to professionals. If you decide to proceed, do so at your own risk.
• Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust, which can be harmful to your health.

Steps to Clean Inside Your Computer

1. Shut Down Your Computer:

• Ensure your computer is properly shut down before you begin.

2. Disconnect Power:

• Unplug all power cords. As an extra precaution, turn off the power switch at the back of the computer if it has one.

3. Remove All Connected Devices and Cords:

• Disconnect all peripherals such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any other connected devices. This will make it easier to move the computer and prevent accidental damage to the components.

4. Move the Computer:

• Take the main computer box outside to avoid making a mess inside your home.

5. Open the Computer Case:

• Depending on your computer case, you may need to remove thumb screws, which can be undone with your fingers, or Phillips head screws, which require a screwdriver.

6. Clean the Inside:

• Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust from the components. Be careful not to touch or dislodge any parts.
• For stubborn dust, use a soft, anti-static brush to gently remove it from surfaces.
• Avoid using a vacuum cleaner as it can create static electricity, which can damage sensitive components.

7. Reassemble and Reconnect:

• Once the cleaning is complete, carefully reassemble the computer case.
• Reconnect all devices and cords.
• Plug in the power cord and turn on the power switch at the back of the computer.

8. Power On:

• Start your computer and check that everything is functioning correctly.

By following these safety tips and steps, you can clean the inside of your computer effectively without causing damage or putting yourself at risk. Regular cleaning can help maintain your computer’s performance and extend its lifespan.

Acceptable Tools to use to clean inside your computer case.

Of course it is preferred that you have the professional tools to clean inside your computer case, however you do not always need all the fancy cleaning tools available. Everyday household items will do. Here is a list of some of the tools I use to clean inside my computer.

Clean Inside your Computer Case

• Soft paint brush: I use this when an air compressor is not available. Gently brush the dust from inside the case. Make sure you do not accidentally move any wires or connections.
• Air compressor: I would choose to use this before anything. Its quick and easy and removes dust properly. Do not go too close to the motherboard though. It will work fine from a distance. It is also best to remove the CPU fan and clean that separately.
• Compressed air can: When you clean inside your computer case, this  disposable compressed air can that will blow the dust out. Be sure to keep the can upright, otherwise it will leak liquid. Always read the instructions on the can. (Pictured right.)
• Vacuum: Some people use this to suck the dust from inside their computer case, however a normal household one will not do. It is best to use a battery operated, handheld vacuum specifically designed for this purpose. Household vacuums cause static electricity which can damage your computer components.
• Dust Mask: This is great for those really dusty old computers. I don’t think it would be very healthy to breathe it all in.

Cleaning the Exterior and Components

• Water: Use water sparingly. It should only be used to slightly dampen your cloth. You do not want water dripping all over your computer.
• Rubbing alcohol: I always choose to use this before water as it evaporates fast. It is also great for cleaning dirt and oily marks from the inside the computer case, mouse and keyboard.
• Cloth: (lint free) You should use a cloth to clean the exterior of the case, the mouse, cords, and keyboard. Only slightly damp. Fold your cloth over a few times to get in between the keys on the keyboard.
• Vacuum: You can use a vacuum cleaner to extract dust and food crumbs from your keyboard. Do not use it to clean inside your computer case as it may damage your components.
• Cotton Wool or Swabs: Also good for reaching those hard to reach places.
• Car dash oil: This is great for blending in scratches on monitors and sometimes cases, like a Dell GX270 desktop. Don’t use too much, as you do not want it dripping into the monitor air vents.
• Eucalyptus oil: I use this to remove permanent pen from monitors or cases.  Just put some on a cloth and rub on the writing and it will start to dissolve.
• Cleaning your inside your computer case regularly, can prolong its working life. We could all do with less computer troubles and this is an easy task for most people. Removing things like dust, smoke residue, dirt, or pet hair can leave your system to breathe freely.
• So why not clean inside your computer case now. You will be shocked at the amount of dust and dirt that is in there.
• Don’t forget to read how to open computer cases. Watch this video on how to clean inside your computer case:

This video will show you how to clean inside your computer case safely. It will also show you what tools to use and then go on to clean a mouse, the old type with the ball, and also an optical mouse.

Have you got any tips to share with us on how you clean inside your computer case?