Buying Computer Dust Covers

Computer dust covers are useful for protecting your computer and/or monitor from collecting dust in its components, and also provide some protection against water leaks and other types of damage. Dust and debris can collect in ventilation slots, accessory ports, disk drives, the screen surface, and between keys. They are useful for long-term storage of computers as well, helping to keep insects out of them. Here are some tips on finding and buying computer dust covers...

It is important to find a cover which is the right size and shape for your computer and monitor. If your computer is an all-in-one unit or consists of a CRT monitor sitting on top of a desktop unit, a single large square cover (such as the Fellowes 99615) may be sufficient. Otherwise, you will probably need two or three smaller covers (Fellowes 99688, OfficeMax 20844008). If a cover specifies a particular maximum monitor size, keep in mind that CRT, LCD, and TV displays are measured differently. Dust covers are also available for some printers (Cables Unlimited AID-DC2CE, Fellowes 99684, Epson C4800TUMI). Keyboard covers come with some computer dust cover sets, or can be purchased separately. It is generally not difficult to find an appropriate cover for any computer, keyboard, or monitor made in the past twenty years; on the other hand, it is easier to find the right cover for your printer while it remains under five years old.

Most monitor, computer, and printer covers are made of vinyl or nylon, while keyboard covers have been produced with a variety of different materials. Using an under-monitor surge protector will allow you to use the monitor's cover to keep dust out of the surge protector's outlets and switches as well. Alternatively, household outlet covers can be used to keep unused outlets clean on a traditional surge protector. Make sure the size of the dust cover you are purchasing takes into account the extra space needed for wires plugged into the back of the computer. "Multi-media" dust covers, like the Fellowes 99687, are designed to fit a monitor with large side-mounted speakers; these are not as easy to find as most other types.

Computer and printer dust covers can be purchased at office supply stores (OfficeMax, OfficeDepot, Staples), online retailers, and eBay.com auctions. They are generally priced at about $7-16, depending upon the size, shape, brand, and location of purchase. The total surface area of a cover set usually has a more significant impact on the price than the number of separate pieces.