How to Clean up Laptop Spills

With many people using laptops as the central form of communication, entertainment and even work, harming the delicate inner-workings of the laptop can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Even if the laptop falls under a warranty, no warranty covers spilled coffee or soda.

1. First: Shut off the power, unplug the charger and remove the battery quickly!

   First, shut the power off immediately. Then, unplug any cable and turn power off the laptop by pressing and holding the power button for six seconds. Liquid damages electrical systems mainly by short circuiting, so eliminating power lowers the risk. This does not get rid of the entire risk, so also quickly remove the laptop battery.

2. Second: Drying the interior

   Knowing how to best dry a laptop really provides the biggest influence on your laptop's survival. Do not rush this step. There are very few things you can do instantly which make a difference. Unscrew the back casing of the laptop and set it gently aside (do not lose the screws). Use a hairdryer (on a warm air setting, not on hot) and run it over the circuitry and keyboard. When you think it is dry, do it for another half hour because it must dry. If any water spots or stains remain, use rubbing alcohol and cottonswabs to remove them. Alcohol cleans well and dries instantly.

3. Third: Set it aside

   The first inclination for most users is to turn it on right away to test the laptop. Do not turn it on right away. Let it sit for a day or two in a warm, dry room with the casing still removed. Also, make sure no dust particles float in the air. After letting it sit, put the casing on, put in the battery and power it on. If the spill was reasonable, chances are it should work all right.