Online Resources

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends cleaning “high-touch” surfaces everyday.

Computers, tablets and other personal electronics (including cell phones) fall under “high-touch” surfaces.  However, the methods for cleaning these devices differs from cleaning counters, tables, desks and doorknobs.

Apple offers the following recommendations for cleaning devices

(which would include “Mac, iPad, iPhone, iPod, display, or peripheral device.”)

• Use only a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid abrasive cloths, towels, paper towels, or similar items.
• Avoid excessive wiping, which might cause damage.
• Unplug all external power sources, devices, and cables.
• Keep liquids away from the product, unless otherwise noted for specific products.
• Don’t get moisture into any openings.
• Don’t use aerosol sprays, bleaches, or abrasives.
• Don’t spray cleaners directly onto the item.

On March 9th, Apple released an updated statement around using “solvents” such as Clorox and Lysol wipes.  They had previously advised against using these items.

“Using a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, you may gently wipe the hard, nonporous surfaces of your Apple product, such as the display, keyboard, or other exterior surfaces. Don’t use bleach. Avoid getting moisture in any opening, and don’t submerge your Apple product in any cleaning agents. Don’t use on fabric or leather surfaces.”

Touchscreen devices (tablets and convertible laptops) have an oil-resistant (oleophobic) surfacing.  Use of strong solvents (bleach, rubbing alcohol) could damage this surfacing.