Keep my MacBook White, Fresh & Clean

October 8, 2006 5:52 AM

Just got a new little white macbook. It's beautiful - and I want to keep it that way....

I've seen many old ones that get smugged with dirt and sweat. How can I keep it pretty and looking new?

posted by BigBrownBear to technology (10 comments total)

This Marware protection pack is a necessity, particularly for the wrist guard. I have it, and while the actual guard is starting to get dirty, I figure it'll be a lot easier to peel that off and get a new one when I can't bear it anymore, rather than trying to clean the actual Macbook.
posted by sarahsynonymous at 6:21 AM on October 8, 2006

check these out. i got one for my 60gb ipod video before i started using it, and the ipod is still pristine.

http://www.shieldzone.com/category/laptops/
posted by quadrinary at 6:51 AM on October 8, 2006

I've heard good things about Radtech products, although I've never used them myself. But hey, thanks for posting this, my iBook's getting kinda dirty...
posted by echo0720 at 8:44 AM on October 8, 2006

I have a week 32 MacBook (white), and just got it back from warranty repair (random shutoff problem). While this machine was built after they reportedly changed the topcase plastic material, mine still got the monkey paw funk. The fellow at the Genius Bar didn't seem to know or care about the manufacture date, however, and had it replaced as a matter of course (I didn't even request it).

It's cold comfort, I know, but I suspect that if it does get to a point where it's uncleanable, they'll likely replace the relevant parts under warranty without question until such a time as they really do solve the problem.

To answer your question more directly, I had decent luck cleaning mine up with good old soap and water, and a bit of elbow grease. I've heard of people using non-acetone nail polish remover, as well. As a last resort, just try to keep your hands clean! Good luck.
posted by TheNewWazoo at 9:26 AM on October 8, 2006

Get over the initial shock that your laptop is going to get scuffed and dirty, yes, even the Apple products. (Unless you never leave the house or move it out of its original packaging). That said, you can buy three very simple, inexpensive things to minimize the markings.

- the ProTouch Keyboard Protector. A think plastic sheet that goes over you keyboard (kind of like braces on teeth), it doesn't interfere with your typing at all, and best of all, you can wash it when it gets dirty. Scratches to the white case can happen to your laptop, but having something that protects your keys from the oils on our finger tips is just as important, IMHO. About $30 USD and highly recommended.

-the Tucano Second Skin laptop protector. What case/knapsack you carry your laptop in is a pretty personal decision, but this cbasic ase is vital for protecting your new investment. It's a Neoprine 'folder', about $30 bucks USD and it looks like your laptop is wearing a wetsuit, which is kind of cute.

-the Klearscreen line of screen cleaners. They have one for Apple products (iKleer) but the guy at the MacWorld expo giving away the free samples said there's no difference between them. You can use them on your scren and also on the plastic case. Variable prices depending on what you're buying - the liquid or the sheets.

For more specific recommendations try the usual Mac forums out there - you can get more recommendations there.
posted by rmm at 10:05 AM on October 8, 2006

Get a Magic Eraser and use it whenever the Macbook starts to look dingy. Cheaper than the screen cleaners, less effort than elbow grease, and doesn't require you to put plastic covers on your computer.
posted by jaed at 10:30 AM on October 8, 2006

This Marware protection pack is a necessity

Or you could encase your macbook in space shuttle tiles. (a necessity? Is that a joke?)

I had an ibook, now a macbook. I use iklear to clean it up every once in a while, but honestly I've never had much trouble keeping it clean. If you can't stand for a scratch or smudge, you're better off not using it. I'm not exactly sure what one gets having a perfect 3 year old macbook somewhere under a bunch of aftermarket plastic (but each to his own).
posted by justgary at 10:49 AM on October 8, 2006

I just wash my hands before I sit down at my computer. It seems a little compulsive, but I do it without thinking now. I've had my iBook for over a year and a half and people routinely comment on how incredibly clean it is.

Also, I've been told that the Magic Eraser works wonders, though I haven't had to use it myself. :-)
posted by chickletworks at 1:38 PM on October 8, 2006

Another vote for the Magic Eraser, but I wouldn't use it on the screen like jaed says.
posted by keswick at 5:40 PM on October 8, 2006

I have been using my white G4 iBook for more than a year and a half now and it still basically looks new. There's nothing that can be done for minor scratches, but I just clean any marks that appear with a sort cloth and the same kind of spray used to clean eyeglasses.
posted by sindark at 7:05 AM on January 6, 2007