How to Clean a Laptop with Compressed Air

PDF download Download Article
Remove dust and debris from your laptop with a simple can of compressed air
PDF download Download Article

Cleaning your laptop doesn’t have to be a complicated chore. You can do it quickly and easily with a can of compressed air. Compressed air is inexpensive and widely available from computer or office supply stores. They are safe for your computer, as long as you keep the cans angled right-side up and don't spray them closer than 1 inch (2.5 cm) from internal components. Follow along as this wikiHow guide teaches you everything you need to know about cleaning a laptop with compressed air.

Things You Should Know

  • Keep the can 1–3 in (2.5–7.6 cm) away from your laptop and angled right-side up while spraying.
  • With the laptop closed, spray quick bursts of air into the vents along the sides and bottom.
  • Use a screwdriver to remove the exterior panel(s) of your laptop and spray quick bursts along the motherboard and other internal parts.
Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Cleaning the Laptop Exterior

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Compressed air could potentially damage some of the small plastic parts on a laptop. Don’t spray any closer than 1–3 in (2.5–7.6 cm) so the more fragile parts don’t get a direct blast.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/70\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Start by keeping the laptop closed and flipping it over so the bottom points up. Take the spray can and give each opening on the bottom a few quick bursts to blast out dust and gunk that’s built up. [2]
    • These vents are responsible for keeping the laptop cool. Dust buildup could cause overheating, so your computer should run more smoothly when all the dust is removed.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3f\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3f\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These openings are along the sides of the laptop, and there may also be some along the back edge. Spray a few bursts into every port along the laptop to clear them out.
    • Dust in the ports can cause connectivity issues, so any external devices should run smoother with the dust cleared out.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Lift the screen and open it slightly more than halfway so you can access the keyboard easily. Then tilt the laptop downward so its front edge points at the floor. This tilt is important so any dust you blow off doesn’t settle back in a different spot.
    • You could also flip the laptop on its side and get the same effect.
    • Make sure you're working over a wide, flat surface in case you lose your grip on the laptop. You don't want it falling to the floor.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/76\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Start on either side and position the can at the top of the keyboard. Spray in straight rows, from top to bottom, so the dust blows downward. Work across the keyboard until you reach the other side.
    • You can use slightly longer bursts than you did for the vents, but don’t hold the trigger down for very long bursts. This could spray out cold foam that could damage the computer.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some dust may have settled on the touchpad while you cleaned the keyboard. Give this a quick spray to remove it and finish up cleaning the laptop exterior.
    7. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Dusting the Internal Components

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/04\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Always make sure the laptop is off and unplugged before opening it up . Otherwise, you could shock yourself and damage the internal parts.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Close the screen and flip it upside down. Use a screwdriver and remove the screws along the back of the laptop. Then remove the plastic casing to expose the laptop’s internal components. [3]
    • Work in an area with the windows closed and no fans running. Wind can blow more dust into the computer.
    • If you aren’t comfortable working on your computer or opening it up, then bring it to a repair shop for a professional cleaning.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5c\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The laptop’s internal components are much more fragile than the exterior, so keep the can a safe distance away. Don’t spray the air any closer than 3 in (7.6 cm) to avoid any damage.
    • Also angle the can off-center from where you’re spraying. Spraying straight at the computer components could blow the dust deeper, or at least not remove it as well.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Dust can build up on the chips and boards within the computer and inhibit performance. Give a few sprays around all of the internal parts to blast out the dust. Remember to keep the can a safe distance away while you’re spraying.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/73\/Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Clean-a-Laptop-with-Compressed-Air-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The laptop fans can’t spin as well if dust builds on them. While the computer is open, spray any fans you see to keep them running smoothly.
    • Hold the fans down with your finger if they spin while you’re spraying them. Apply light pressure so you don’t break them.
    6. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can compressed air ruin a computer?
    Yaffet Meshesha
    Computer Specialist
    Yaffet Meshesha is a Computer Specialist and the Founder of Techy, a full-service computer pickup, repair, and delivery service. With over eight years of experience, Yaffet specializes in computer repairs and technical support. Techy has been featured on TechCrunch and Time.
    Yaffet Meshesha
    Computer Specialist
    Expert Answer
    If you hold the can sideways or upside-down, it could spray liquid and damage your computer. Keep the compressed air upright while you're working.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 46
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • For further cleaning, you can also dampen a microfiber cloth with a 1:1 alcohol and water mixture and wipe down the screen and keyboard. Make sure the cloth doesn’t drip any liquid onto the computer.
        Thanks
      • Foam coming out while the can is right-side up could mean that it’s almost empty. Get a new can if you see foam spraying out.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Do not inhale the fumes from a spray can. Keep the can arm's length away from your face while spraying.
        Thanks
      • Keep the can turned right-side up while spraying it. If you flip the can upside down, it will spray out a cold foam that could damage the computer. Avoid this by only spraying the can while it’s angled straight up. [4]
        Thanks
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      11 Tips & Tricks to Fix a Missing Windows Laptop Mouse Cursor
      How to
      Connect a Laptop to a Monitor
      How to Display HDMI on a Laptop: Quickstart Guide
      2 Easy Ways to Reset an HP Laptop without the Password
      How to Turn on the Keyboard Light on a Dell
      How to Connect a Desktop to a Laptop (Windows and Mac)
      How to Take a Screenshot on a Lenovo Laptop: 4 Easy Methods
      How to
      Transfer Files Between Laptops
      How to
      Use Laptops
      Using The Webcam in Your Laptop to Take Photos
      How to Control Fan Speed on a Windows 10 Laptop
      3 Fast Ways to Find the Model Number on Your HP Laptop
      How to
      Activate the Touch Screen on an HP Laptop
      How to Turn on the Touchpad on Your Laptop
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Yaffet Meshesha. Computer Specialist. Expert Interview. 10 February 2021
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/rIsVycuauZc?t=80
      3. ↑ Yaffet Meshesha. Computer Specialist. Expert Interview. 10 February 2021
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/rIsVycuauZc?t=80

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 91,137 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement