- Always switch off and unplug before cleaning.
- Never spray liquid directly on a laptop.
- Dust in the vents is a common cause of heat and noise.
The short answer
A laptop that is cleaned and cared for regularly runs cooler, quieter and lasts longer. You do not need special tools. A soft cloth, a little water, compressed air and some patience are enough for most jobs. The golden rule is to be gentle and to keep liquids away from openings.
Before you start
- Shut the laptop down completely and unplug the charger.
- Remove any external drives and cables.
- If the battery is removable and you know how to do so, take it out.
- Work on a clean, flat surface with good light.
Cleaning the screen
Screens scratch easily and can have special coatings. Use a clean microfibre cloth. If there are marks, dampen the cloth very slightly with water and wipe gently, then dry with a second cloth. Do not press hard, and never spray liquid onto the screen. Check your laptop maker’s guidance before using alcohol wipes or glass cleaner, because some coatings can be damaged.
Cleaning the keyboard
- Turn the laptop upside down at a slight angle and gently tap to dislodge crumbs.
- Use short bursts of compressed air between the keys, holding the can upright.
- Wipe the key tops with a slightly damp cloth.
- If something sticky has spilled, switch off, unplug and take it to a technician rather than hoping it dries.
Clearing dust from the vents
Laptops pull air through small vents to cool the processor. Dust builds up inside and slows that airflow, so the fan gets louder and the machine gets hot. Use short bursts of compressed air at the vents from outside, and keep the laptop on a hard surface, not a bed or sofa. If the fan stays loud or the laptop shuts down from heat, ask a technician to open it and clean the fan and replace old thermal paste. Opening the case yourself can affect the warranty.
Looking after the battery and ports
- Keep charging ports free of lint, using a wooden toothpick gently with the power off.
- Avoid leaving the laptop in a hot car or in a closed bag while it runs.
- Use the original or a certified charger. Read our guide on USB-C and charging standards for more.
Software maintenance
Hardware care helps, but a laptop also slows down from software clutter. A monthly routine keeps it healthy.
- Install system and app updates.
- Uninstall programs you no longer use.
- Limit the apps that start automatically with the computer.
- Keep at least 15 to 20 percent of storage free.
- Run your security software and avoid unknown downloads.
- Back up your files regularly. See how to back up your phone and laptop.
A simple cleaning schedule
| How often | Task |
|---|---|
| Weekly | Wipe the screen and keyboard surface |
| Monthly | Air-clean keys, ports and vents; review startup apps |
| Every 6 months | Check storage, backups and updates |
| Every 2 to 3 years | Have a technician clean the inside and check the thermal paste |
Quick checklist
- Power off and unplug before cleaning
- Use a microfibre cloth, not paper towels
- Use short bursts of compressed air
- Keep vents clear and use a hard surface
- Update, tidy and back up regularly
Key points to remember
Ten minutes of care each month can add years to a laptop. If it is already slow, see our guide to speed up a slow laptop, and if it is time to replace it, read how to choose a laptop for work or school.
