How to Clean a Computer's Insides Safely

Check your owner's manual. If the manufacturer has provided specific instructions, follow them.

Step 2

Get any supplies you might need: a can of compressed air, Endust for Electronic or any household plastic or metal cleaning fluid, a soft brush (such as a paintbrush) and an anti-static rag, plus a dust mask if you're allergic to dust.

Step 3

Shut down the computer.

Step 4

Leave the computer plugged into the surge suppressor.

Step 5

Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.

Step 6

Remove the computer cover (see your owner's manual for instructions).

Step 7

Ground yourself to the computer with any professional grounding equipment you have. Otherwise, ground yourself by touching a metal part of the chassis.

Step 8

Spray compressed air on the fan blades, power supply chassis, drive chassis and circuit boards.

Step 9

Gently brush off dust that the forced air didn't dislodge.

Step 10

Brush any remaining dust out from the bottom of the chassis.

Step 11

Spray Endust for Electronics or another cleaning fluid onto an anti-static rag.

Step 12

Wipe the inside and outside of the cover thoroughly.

Step 13

Replace the cover and reconnect the peripherals