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How to Safely Clean Electronics With Compressed Air

Compressed air is appropriate for some computer vents and keyboard gaps, but not every device. Check your model’s instructions and disconnect it before cleaning.
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Compressed air is safe only for specific cleaning jobs that your device maker allows. Dell recommends it for computer air vents, and Microsoft recommends it for debris between keys on its keyboards. Apple says not to use it on iPhone, and Dell warns against it on the monitor families covered by its cleaning guidance. Check the instructions for your exact device and component before you start.

Before you clean: check the device instructions

Cleaning advice varies by device and surface. A method permitted for a computer vent or keyboard gap is not automatically suitable for a screen, phone, port, or another electronic device. Find the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your exact model and follow any product-specific cautions. If they prohibit compressed air, do not use it.

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For example, Dell recommends compressed air for computer vents, while Microsoft recommends it between keys on its keyboards. Apple’s iPhone cleaning instructions prohibit compressed air, as does Dell’s guidance for the monitor families covered by its article.

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Prepare the device safely

  1. Power down and disconnect it. Dell advises turning off and unplugging the computer and disconnecting cables before cleaning. Remove batteries where applicable and where the product instructions call for it.
  2. For a keyboard, disconnect it or remove its batteries. Microsoft gives this instruction before cleaning its keyboards.
  3. Use compressed air only on the component the maker identifies. Do not assume instructions for vents or key gaps apply to other openings or surfaces.

Clean computer vents only as directed

Dust-blocked vents can restrict airflow and contribute to overheating, according to Dell. If your computer’s instructions permit compressed air for its vents, aim only at those vents and follow the specified technique.

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For its vent-cleaning procedure, Dell says to hold the can at a 90-degree angle and 6–8 inches from the vents. Those measurements apply to Dell’s procedure; they are not universal settings for other devices or manufacturers.

Clean keyboard gaps using the keyboard maker’s method

For Microsoft keyboards, Microsoft recommends disconnecting the keyboard or removing its batteries, turning it upside down, and tapping it gently to dislodge debris. It then recommends using compressed air between the keys. A vacuum with a dusting brush is its stated alternative.

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These instructions are for Microsoft keyboards; check the instructions for another brand or model rather than assuming the same method is approved.

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Do not use compressed air on these devices

  • iPhone: Apple says not to use compressed air. Its guidance recommends a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth for cleaning the phone.
  • Dell monitor families covered by its guidance: Dell warns against compressed air and recommends a soft cloth lightly dampened with water for the monitors addressed in its article.

Do not extend these examples into a blanket rule for every phone or monitor. Consult the instructions for your own model.

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Use a cloth for surfaces when the maker recommends it

Use the cloth type and dampness specified in your device’s instructions. Apple recommends a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth for iPhone; Dell recommends a soft cloth lightly dampened with water for the monitors covered by its guidance. Keep moisture out of openings, and never spray liquid directly onto equipment.

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