Keeping your phone and keyboard clean helps remove dust, oils, crumbs and everyday grime. However, electronic devices need a careful approach. Too much moisture, strong cleaning products or rough handling can damage screens, coatings, keys and internal components.
The safest method is to use a small amount of suitable cleaner on a soft cloth, rather than spraying liquid directly onto a device. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions first, as materials and water-resistance ratings vary.
Before you start
Gather a few simple supplies:
– A clean, soft, lint-free microfibre cloth
– A second dry cloth
– Cotton buds for small areas
– A soft brush or clean, dry toothbrush
– A small amount of clean water
– An electronics-safe cleaning wipe, if recommended by the manufacturer
– Optional: a hand air blower for loose dust
Avoid paper towels, tissues and rough cloths. These can leave fibres behind or create fine scratches, especially on screens and glossy surfaces.
Before cleaning any device:
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Unplug the device or switch it off.
- Remove the phone case, keyboard wrist rest and other accessories.
- Disconnect a wireless keyboard from its computer or remove its batteries if practical.
- Work on a clean, dry surface with good lighting.
- Read the manufacturer’s cleaning advice.
Do not clean a device while it is charging or connected to power. Switching it off also makes it easier to see marks and helps prevent accidental taps and key presses.
How to clean your phone
Remove dust and loose debris
Start with the phone turned off and the case removed. Use a dry microfibre cloth to gently wipe the front, back and sides. Use light pressure, moving across the surface rather than scrubbing one spot repeatedly.
For dust around buttons, speakers and the charging port, use a soft, dry brush. A hand air blower can also help move loose particles away from openings. Keep the airflow gentle and avoid forcing dust further into the device.
Do not push cotton buds, pins, paper clips or other objects into ports. They can damage contacts or compact dirt inside the opening.
Clean the screen and body
If dry wiping does not remove fingerprints, lightly dampen part of a microfibre cloth with clean water. The cloth should be slightly damp, not wet or dripping. Wipe the screen and casing gently, then use a dry section of the cloth to remove remaining moisture.
For stubborn marks, use a cleaning product specifically labelled as suitable for phones or electronic screens. Apply it to the cloth, never directly to the phone. Follow the product instructions and use only the recommended amount.
Keep liquid away from:
– Charging ports
– Speakers and microphones
– Buttons and seams
– Camera openings
– SIM card trays
– Folds or hinges on folding phones
Although some phones are water-resistant, this does not mean they are waterproof in every situation. Water resistance can reduce over time, and liquid damage may not be covered by a warranty. Do not rinse your phone under a tap or submerge it unless the manufacturer specifically gives clear instructions for that model.
Clean the camera lenses
Camera lenses can collect fingerprints that make photos look hazy. Use a clean, dry microfibre cloth and gently wipe the lens in small circles. If needed, use the tiniest amount of water on the cloth.
Avoid rough materials and strong household cleaners. These may affect protective coatings or leave a film on the lens.
Clean the phone case
Phone cases can usually be cleaned separately from the device. For silicone, plastic or rubber cases, use warm water with a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid. Wipe the case with a soft cloth, rinse it if the material allows, and dry it completely before putting it back on the phone.
Some leather, fabric or wood cases need special care. Check the case maker’s instructions instead of using water or general-purpose cleaner. A case must be fully dry before it touches the phone, particularly around buttons and ports.
How to clean a computer keyboard
Keyboards collect dust, hair, crumbs and skin oils between the keys. Cleaning regularly can make them more pleasant to use and may help prevent keys from sticking.
Remove loose debris
Turn off the computer and unplug the keyboard. If it is wireless, disconnect it and remove the batteries when possible.
Hold the keyboard at a slight angle and gently shake or tap it over a clear area to release loose crumbs. Do not hit it hard, as this can damage the switches or internal parts.
Use a soft brush to loosen debris between the keys. A hand air blower is another option. If using compressed air, follow the can’s instructions, keep the can upright and use short bursts from a safe distance. Avoid tilting the can or holding the nozzle too close, as liquid propellant or excessive pressure may cause damage.
Wipe the keys and frame
Lightly dampen a microfibre cloth with water or an electronics-safe cleaner. Wipe the tops of the keys, the space bar, palm rest and outer frame. Never spray cleaner directly onto the keyboard.
For marks around individual keys, use a barely damp cotton bud. Keep moisture away from gaps and openings. Work slowly, and use a dry cloth afterwards.
Do not remove keycaps unless the keyboard manufacturer says it is safe and you have the correct tool. Laptop keys and some low-profile keyboards can be difficult to replace and may break if lifted incorrectly.
Clean a laptop keyboard carefully
Laptop keyboards need extra care because the computer, screen and battery are built into one unit. Keep the laptop switched off and unplugged. Open it at a comfortable angle, but do not press down on the screen or place liquid near the hinge.
Use a dry brush or gentle air blower first. Wipe the keys with a barely damp cloth, then leave the laptop open until all surfaces are completely dry before switching it on.
If liquid has already spilled into the keyboard, turn the laptop off immediately, unplug it and avoid repeatedly pressing keys to test it. Follow the manufacturer’s support instructions rather than applying heat or trying to open the computer yourself.
Cleaning frequency and good habits
There is no single schedule that suits everyone. A quick dry wipe once or twice a week can help control dust and fingerprints. Give your phone and keyboard a more thorough clean when they look dirty or after use in dusty environments.
These habits can also help:
– Keep food and drinks away from keyboards.
– Use clean hands before handling your phone.
– Store devices in a clean, dry place.
– Wash or replace fabric phone cases as recommended.
– Do not share cleaning cloths with bathrooms or kitchens.
– Keep cleaning products labelled and away from children and pets.
– Let surfaces dry fully before reconnecting power.
Products and methods to avoid
Do not use bleach, ammonia, window cleaner, abrasive powders, scouring pads or strong solvents unless the manufacturer specifically approves them. Avoid pouring or spraying any liquid onto an electronic device.
Do not use a hairdryer, heater or direct sunlight to dry a wet phone or keyboard. High heat can affect batteries, adhesives, screens and plastic parts.
With a soft cloth, gentle tools and very little moisture, most everyday dirt can be removed safely. When in doubt, choose the least aggressive cleaning method and check the care instructions for your specific device.
