In today’s world, it’s more important than ever to keep our hands and surfaces clean and disinfected. With the rise of COVID-19 and other viruses, it’s crucial to regularly clean and disinfect the items we use every day, including our computer mouse and keyboard.
But how do you properly disinfect these essential tools without damaging them? In this article, we’ll discuss the best methods for cleaning and disinfecting your mouse and keyboard to keep them free from germs and bacteria.
Why Is It Important to Clean and Disinfect Your Mouse and Keyboard?
Our hands come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day, and our computer mouse and keyboard are no exception. These items are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting, but they can harbor a significant amount of germs and bacteria.
According to a study by the University of Arizona, the average computer mouse and keyboard contain more bacteria than a toilet seat. This is because we often eat at our desks, and crumbs and food particles can get trapped in between the keys and buttons, providing a breeding ground for bacteria.
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your mouse and keyboard can help prevent the spread of illness and keep your workspace clean and hygienic.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mouse and Keyboard?
The frequency of cleaning your mouse and keyboard will depend on how often you use them and your personal hygiene habits. If you eat at your desk or share your computer with others, you may need to clean them more frequently.
As a general rule, it’s recommended to clean your mouse and keyboard at least once a week. However, during flu season or times of illness, it’s best to clean them more often.
How to Clean Your Mouse
Cleaning your mouse is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps.
Step 1: Unplug Your Mouse
Before cleaning your mouse, make sure to unplug it from your computer or turn off your wireless mouse. This will prevent any accidental clicks or damage to your computer.
Step 2: Remove Any Debris
Using a can of compressed air, gently blow away any debris or dust from the surface of your mouse. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that may be stuck to the surface.
Step 3: Wipe Down the Surface
Using a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol, gently wipe down the surface of your mouse. Be sure to get in between the buttons and around the scroll wheel.
Step 4: Clean the Bottom of the Mouse
Flip your mouse over and use a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to clean the bottom of the mouse. This is where the mouse comes into contact with your desk or mousepad, so it’s essential to keep it clean.
Step 5: Let It Dry
Allow your mouse to air dry before plugging it back in or turning it on. This will prevent any damage to your computer and ensure that the disinfectant has had time to do its job.
How to Clean Your Keyboard
Cleaning your keyboard may take a bit more time and effort, but it’s just as important as cleaning your mouse.
Step 1: Unplug Your Keyboard
Before cleaning your keyboard, make sure to unplug it from your computer. If you have a wireless keyboard, turn it off.
Step 2: Shake Out Any Debris
Turn your keyboard upside down and gently shake it to remove any debris or crumbs that may be stuck between the keys.
Step 3: Use Compressed Air
Using a can of compressed air, blow out any remaining debris from the keyboard. This will help loosen any dirt or grime that may be stuck in between the keys.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Keys
Using a disinfectant wipe or a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol, gently wipe down the keys of your keyboard. Be sure to get in between the keys and around the edges.
Step 5: Clean the Keyboard Base
Using a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol, wipe down the base of your keyboard. This is where your hands come into contact with the keyboard, so it’s essential to keep it clean.
Step 6: Let It Dry
Allow your keyboard to air dry before plugging it back in or turning it on. This will prevent any damage to your computer and ensure that the disinfectant has had time to do its job.
How to Disinfect Your Mouse and Keyboard
Cleaning your mouse and keyboard is an essential step in keeping them free from germs and bacteria, but disinfecting them is just as crucial.
Step 1: Use a Disinfectant Spray or Wipe
Using a disinfectant spray or wipe, thoroughly wipe down the surface of your mouse and keyboard. Be sure to get in between the keys and around the buttons and scroll wheel.
Step 2: Let It Sit
Allow the disinfectant to sit on the surface of your mouse and keyboard for a few minutes. This will give it time to kill any germs or bacteria.
Step 3: Wipe Away the Disinfectant
Using a clean cloth, wipe away the disinfectant from the surface of your mouse and keyboard. Be sure to remove any excess liquid to prevent damage to your computer.
Tips for Keeping Your Mouse and Keyboard Clean
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your mouse and keyboard is crucial, but there are also some preventative measures you can take to keep them clean.
- Avoid eating at your desk to prevent crumbs and food particles from getting trapped in between the keys and buttons.
- Wash your hands before using your computer to prevent transferring germs and bacteria to your mouse and keyboard.
- Use a keyboard cover to protect your keyboard from spills and debris.
- Consider using a touchless mouse to reduce the number of surfaces you come into contact with.
Conclusion
Keeping your mouse and keyboard clean and disinfected is an essential step in maintaining a clean and hygienic workspace. By following these simple steps and incorporating regular cleaning into your routine, you can prevent the spread of illness and keep your computer accessories in top condition.
