How to Clean the Gadgets on Your Desk

Clean the Computer Monitor

Turn off thecomputer, then wipe the screen with a clean soft cloth or a tissue slightly dampened with water. Cleaning solvents are too harsh for most monitors, and dedicated computer-cleaning cloths often leave a soapy film. Wipe the monitor’s exterior with a cloth moistened with a mild all-purpose cleaner, like Windex. (Never spray cleaner directly onto the computer.)

Clean the Computer Mouse

Unplug themouse, unscrew the bottom, and remove the ball; blow dust from the casing with compressed air (about $9 a can at office-supply stores); and wipe the ball and interior—getting around the three rollers—with a Q-tip dipped in alcohol. Let the ball dry completely before closing.

Clean the Keyboard

Disconnect the keyboard, turn it over, then gently shake. Clean between the keys with a few blasts of compressed air. Clean the keys with Q-tips dipped in alcohol or a cloth moistened with a mild all-purpose cleaner. If you tend to eat and drink while working, consider buying a clear plastic guard (about $15 at office-supply stores) that can be left on while you type.

Clean the Phone

Wipe the surfaceand cord with a clean soft cloth dampened with a mild all-purpose cleaner. (Don’t spray the cleaner directly onto the phone.) Use an antibacterial wipe or a tissue dipped in alcohol to clean the mouth and earpieces, especially after you’ve been sick or someone else has used your phone.