
Computer keyboards and input devices can be hotbeds of bacteria, especially if they’re used by several people – in a school or office environment, for example.
Regularly disinfecting your Apple keyboard, trackpad, and/or mouse is the best way to sterhttps://www.novodasoftware.com/ilize these devices and remove any nasties, and it only takes five minutes to do. Keep reading to learn how.
To follow the steps below, you’ll need some bleach-free disinfectant wipes – Apple specifically recommends Lysol Wipes for the job.
- Before you do anything else, shut down your Mac and unplug the power adapter.
- Take one of the wipes and squeeze it to remove any excess dampness, then gently clean your Mac’s trackpad, keyboard, and/or mouse. Keep your pressure light to prevent any excess liquid from escaping onto the surfaces.
- Next, use a water-dampened microfiber or lint-free cloth and wipe the areas again.
- Take a dry microfiber or lint-free cloth and wipe over the keyboard and trackpad one last time.
Apple has a support document that includes some important “don’ts” when it comes to disinfecting keyboards, trackpads, and mice, so it’s worth reiterating them here:
- Do not use disinfectant wipes containing bleach or disinfectant sprays in general.
- Do not use an extremely damp disinfectant wipe to clean the area. If you encounter a very damp wipe it may need to be squeezed to remove some of the excess liquid before use.
- Do not allow the liquid from the disinfectant wipe to sit or pool on the area being disinfected for a long amount of time.
- Do not use rough towels or cloths to dry the area.
- Do not use excess force when disinfecting the area around the keyboard; this could damage the keys.
If you’re a regular traveler, it’s worth picking up something like iKlear iPod Cleaning Kit For All Apple Products. The compact kit costs $19.92 and includes a 1-2 ounce spray bottle and several travel-size antimicrobial polishing cloths.
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