by Michael Walther
The fast answer is of course, no. However, you might be surprised to learn that at least one component might be dishwasher safe.
Most all of us in our work environment or at home take time now and then to wipe off our computer monitors, keyboards and the outer cabinet of our PC’s or MAC’s. What surprises me most often in talking with people is the small percentage who really know the correct way to care for the pieces that make up a computer?
Computer Monitor: The screens of all modern monitors are plastic, not glass. These screens require tender care. Always avoid using any cleaning solution that contains ammonia as this chemical will cause the screen and surrounding bevel frame to turn white and dull. The very best course of action is to use nothing other than a soft microfiber cloth (available in most optical departments of your favorite superstore) and when needed a damp microfiber cloth. Micro fiber cloths will not scratch the surface and do a superior job compared to other cleaning methods. A reminder, the screens are plastic so care must be taken, use only enough pressure to clean the surface.
Computer Housing: This is one component that seems to get neglected other than the usual wiping or dusting. How about under the hood? Inside the case there are two to four fans running to keep things cool and running without overheating. Dust buildup causes temperatures to rise and components to fail. The two critical areas are around the CPU heat sink and fan and the power supply. Based on environment the inside should be cleaned one to two times annually. The interior of the PC case can be cleaned in about five minutes using canned compressed air. For the uninitiated (removing that side panel to reveal the magical inner workings) I recommend having this cleaning done by a professional.
Computer Keyboard: It’s not just dust below those keys. This single component is the dirtiest of all and often contains more bacteria than toilet seats. Think about all the nasty items collected by your keyboard, remnants of sneezes and coughs, bits and pieces of that great Panini and a variety of other culinary delights long forgotten all breeding bacteria. Dusting, blowing out with compressed air and wiping with a cloth dampened with Isopropyl alcohol is great for the surface.
Many of us have experienced that disaster scenario when our favorite liquid refreshment gets spilled into the keyboard rendering it useless. I keep a spare keyboard on hand for just such emergencies. Before you toss out that ruined keyboard, try running it through the dishwasher (no heat) and allow it to dry out for 3 to 5 days. I tried it and I am using that well washed keyboard right now. There is no guarantee this method will work for you, but it did for me and is worth trying with an otherwise dead keyboard.
Michael Walther is a local Murrieta resident whose computer experience started with interest in an Abacus 27 years ago and who’s interest in and education in computer technology has never stopped since.