How to Clean Your Laptop Safely (Keyboard, Screen & Vents)

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 1 October 2026

Crumbs in the keyboard, fingerprints on the screen, and a fan that sounds like a hairdryer? A quick clean can make your laptop look new and even run cooler. Here's how to do it safely, without damaging anything.

First, shut down the laptop and unplug it. Never clean a laptop while it's on or charging.

Step by step

1. 

   Get the right tools

   You need a soft microfibre cloth, a little water, a soft brush or a clean make up brush, and cotton buds. Isopropyl alcohol helps for the keyboard. Avoid paper towels, window cleaner and kitchen sprays. They can scratch or damage coatings.

   Done

2. 

   Clean the keyboard

   Turn the laptop upside down at an angle and gently tap it to let crumbs fall out. Use the brush between the keys. Then wipe the keys with a cloth lightly dampened with a little isopropyl alcohol. Never pour liquid onto the keyboard.

   Done

3. 

   Clean the screen

   Wipe the screen gently with a dry microfibre cloth. For fingerprints, lightly dampen the cloth with water. Wipe in straight lines, and don't press hard. Never spray directly on the screen.

   Done

4. 

   Clean the vents

   Dust in the vents makes your laptop hotter and louder. Use the soft brush to remove dust from the vents. Compressed air works too, but use short bursts and hold the fan still with a cotton bud, so it doesn't spin too fast.

   Done

5. 

   Wipe the case and touchpad

   Wipe the outside, the palm rest and the touchpad with a slightly damp cloth. Cotton buds are great for ports and corners.

   Done

6. 

   Let it dry

   Wait a few minutes until everything is completely dry before you switch it back on.

   Done

Good to know

How often should you do this? Wipe the screen and keyboard every couple of weeks, and clean the vents every few months, more often if you have pets.

One warning: don't open your laptop to clean inside unless you know what you're doing. It can void the warranty.

In short: Switch off and unplug, use the right tools, clean the keyboard, screen and vents, wipe the case, and let it dry.