Apple Tells Us How to Disinfect Keyboards, Mice, Trackpad

Apple has published / updated a knowledge base article on the Support area of its web site with useful information on how to properly clean Macintosh peripherals.

“In addition to regular cleaning of your computer and input devices (keyboards, trackpads, and mice), you may find it necessary to disinfect them,” Apple notes.

Cupertino provides a scenario, saying “When a single computer is being used by multiple people either in a home, school, or another setting you may wish to disinfect the parts of the computer that people come into contact with, such as the the keyboard, mouse, or trackpad.”

“This also applies to Magic Trackpad and other wireless input devices made by Apple,” it adds. The document was likely updated for this particular reference.

First off, Apple says, users must ensure they use Lysol Wipes or Clorox Kitchen Disinfecting wipes.

Users are not to use use excessively damp cleaning wipes. Squeezing the wipe to remove any excess dampness may be needed, the company outlines.

Apple then proceeds with a list of Do’s and Don’ts, saying “Be sure to turn off your Mac, unplug the power cord from the wall or power strip, and remove the battery from portables or wireless keyboards and mice, before you start the cleaning process.”

The second, and final step is to “Use a disinfectant wipe to wipe the area first, then use a damp, soft, lint-free cloth, and finally dry the area with another soft, lint-free cloth.”

Then the Don’ts are listed, with Apple warning against using disinfectant wipes containing bleach. Disinfectant sprays of any kind are not to be used either, according to Support document HT3988.

“Do not use an extremely damp disinfectant wipe to clean the area,” another don’t reads. “If you encounter a very damp wipe it may need to be squeezed to remove some of the excess liquid before use,” Apple’s advice goes.

Mac owners cleaning their accessories need to be extra careful not to allow the liquid from the disinfectant wipe to sit or pool on the area being disinfected for a long amount of time, the document instructs.

Apple mentions rough towels and cloths as materials that are inappropriate for drying.

Although common sense will tell you not to use excessive force when disinfecting the area around the keyboard, Apple feels compelled to include this final note, ensuring customers do not damage the keys.

Those who need assistance in cleaning their entire computer, not just input devices, are to refer to How to clean Mac products, Apple says.