Most people feel more secure taking their laptops with them in the main cabin during flights, rather than checking them with the rest of their luggage. They worry about potential damage to their electronics once they’re out of their hands. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has established rules and regulations for personal electronic devices, and laptops and cell phones are included in the list of allowed carry-on items.

To protect your laptop from daily wear and tear, consider using a vintage leather laptop bag.

Going Through Security

To save time at the airport security checkpoint, be sure to remove your laptop from its case and place it in a bin by itself. While some laptop bags are now permitted, if yours isn’t specifically designed for security checkpoints, you’ll need to take your laptop out. Using a checkpoint-friendly laptop bag can make the process quicker and more efficient.

After that, remember to pick up your laptop! Forgetting it is surprisingly common at airports. A good way to ensure you don’t leave it behind is to attach a label with your name and phone number to your laptop, especially if you’re not using a checkpoint-friendly case.

Keep in mind that airport security has the authority to confiscate your laptop at any time. If they request it, the best course of action is to hand it over politely, without any arguments. Fortunately, in most countries, you shouldn’t have to worry about issues with airport security when carrying your laptop on. Just remember to grab it on your way to the terminal!

Cleaning Your Laptop or Smartphone

With the onset of COVID-19, many travelers are curious about the best ways to clean and disinfect their personal electronics, including laptops and smartphones. It’s important to note that these devices can harbor more germs and bacteria than a public restroom. In fact, a report from Time Magazine states that your cell phone is ten times dirtier than a toilet seat! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends disinfecting high-touch surfaces as frequently as possible.

First and foremost, consult your device’s manufacturer for specific cleaning guidelines. You can usually find this information online or in the device’s manual. Since every device is different—some have glass screens while others do not—it’s crucial to follow the correct cleaning method. For example, many Apple products feature glass screens, whereas many Android devices and PCs may not.

Most Apple devices, including MacBooks and Apple monitors, have glass screens that can be cleaned with disinfecting wipes. However, after using a disinfecting wipe, avoid using your device immediately, as most wipes need at least four minutes to effectively disinfect and sanitize the surface. Let the wipe remain on the hard surface and allow it to air dry completely. For specific cleaning instructions, refer to the manual, as models like the Apple Pro Display XDR may have different requirements than other Apple products.

According to Good Housekeeping, here are four simple steps to clean your device’s glass surface:

1. Unplug your laptop from its power source and turn it off, if possible. Do the same for any monitors.
2. Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down your screen, removing dust, scuffs, and surface fingerprints as best as you can.
3. Wring out a Lysol disinfecting wipe to ensure it’s not too wet. Gently wipe down your laptop’s screen, taking care not to touch any openings like ports or speakers.
4. Let your screen air dry. If streaks remain, wipe it down again with a clean microfiber cloth to help remove any germs and smooth out streaks. If you don’t have a clean cloth, you can sanitize one by boiling it or washing it with a laundry sanitizer.

Keep in mind that LCD screens, which are commonly found on PCs and some monitors, have unique cleaning requirements. Avoid using disinfecting wipes on these screens, as they can leave a glare-inducing film. Also, soap and water are not recommended for cleaning PC screens.

The best way to clean a PC screen is with a dry microfiber cloth. While these cloths don’t disinfect, they are safe for the screen and effectively capture dirt, smudges, and germs without causing damage. Using soap can sometimes leave a film that causes glare or may even harm the screen.

Lastly, I recently dropped my laptop but was relieved to have a sturdy case, which kept it safe. If you’ve invested in a high-quality laptop, it’s definitely worth investing in a good protective case as well!

Caring for Your Keyboard: Essential Tips for Linear Switch Maintenance

Maintaining your keyboard, particularly if it features linear switches, is vital for its longevity and performance. Here’s how to clean your keyboard safely and effectively:

Avoid Harsh Abrasives and Solvents: Refrain from using cloths or cleaning agents that contain harsh abrasives or solvents, as these can harm your keyboard’s surface and internal components.

Use Compressed Air: Tilt the keyboard at a 45-degree angle and utilize a can of compressed air to dislodge any loose particles trapped around the keys. This is especially crucial for keyboards with linear switches, as debris can disrupt smooth keystrokes.

Disinfect with Rubbing Alcohol: The CDC advises using an alcohol-based solution of at least 70% for disinfecting surfaces. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab.

Gently Wipe the Keys: Use the cotton swab with rubbing alcohol to carefully clean over and around the keys. Take care not to use excessive liquid, as it could seep into the switches.

By following these steps, you can keep your linear switch keyboard clean and ensure it continues to provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.

Key Cleaning Dos and Don’ts to Keep in Mind

• Never use cleaning chemicals or wipes that contain harsh abrasives or solvents.
• Typical glass cleaners are not suitable for keyboards.
• Different cleaning methods apply to glass and LCD screens.
• Use only a dry, soft microfiber cloth on non-glass screens, such as those on PC laptops.
• Always refer to your manufacturer’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.

As restrictions ease and business travel resumes, professionals will be moving through airports with their personal electronics like laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Users will want to ensure their device screens are clean, which can be done easily with common household items. Always check if your screen is made of glass or another material, as each has its own cleaning method. Most importantly, always consult your device’s manufacturer for cleaning guidelines.