![From dust pc](https://cdn-ak.f.st-hatena.com/images/fotolife/g/greathigh-power/20200126/20200126193959.jpg)
![from dust pc from dust pc](https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/z/cleaning-pc-cleaning-motherboard-dust-using-brush-cleaning-pc-cleaning-motherboard-dust-using-brush-181570190.jpg)
We highly recommend not using a vacuum to clean dust off your computer components. RELATED: Ask How-To Geek: Why You Should Never Vacuum Your PC, Converting Books for the Kindle, and Controlling Multiple Computers with One Keyboardīefore you begin opening your computer’s case, you’ll need to gather your cleaning tools. And if you’re worried about inhaling dust, you can always stop at your local hardware stop to pick up a cheap dust mask for less than $5. If you’re limited on space just be sure to keep a vacuum ( not for cleaning the inside of the computer more on that soon) nearby for a quick clean up afterwards. Breathing all that old, accumulated dust isn’t good for you and if you’re in an enclosed space, the dust is just going to settle back on your stuff-including back on your computer. This is especially important to consider if your computer has built up a lot of dust that will be blowing around.
![from dust pc from dust pc](https://oldisgoldgames.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/From-Dust-Features.jpg)
Next, move your computer to a well-ventilated area such as your backyard or garage. But, even the tiny trace of moisture from canned air can cause trouble if the components are getting power. Yes, keeping the power cable connected does ground the PC and it’s often okay to leave it connected while working inside the case. It is always safer to remove all peripherals such as USB cables, audio cables, video cables, and especially the power cable. Preparationĭo not open your computer while it is running or with any cables attached to it.
![from dust pc from dust pc](http://www.savegameworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/PC-From-Dust-Savegame-360x202.png)
And, as always, if your computer starts getting hotter than usual, open it up to check for any dust or hair buildup and then clean it. If any of those things do pertain to you, you might want to clean your computer every 6, or even 3, months. In short, if you keep your computer off the floor, don’t smoke, and don’t have shedding pets, you can probably get away with cleaning your computer once per year.
![From dust pc](https://cdn-ak.f.st-hatena.com/images/fotolife/g/greathigh-power/20200126/20200126193959.jpg)