How to Deep Clean Your Keyboard

For computer users, spending long hours in front of the computer screens is inevitable. However, this constant use can take a toll on our keyboards. Dust and hair buildup happen over time, but other particles like fallen tortilla chips and sandwich crumbs can also damage your keyboard. These particles can eventually lead to malfunctioning keys or cause a sticky feel, which can be very frustrating.

But don't worry; cleaning your keyboard is a simple task. To help you out, we've put together detailed content that lists all the supplies you might need and provides you with a step-by-step approach to cleaning your keyboard. The article below will walk you through the process of removing the keys, cleaning the surface, and disinfecting your keyboard.

This below article will also help you identify which cleaning supplies will work best for your keyboard type. For instance, some keyboards are more sensitive than others, so using a particular cleaning product might not be appropriate. By following the guidelines mentioned below, you'll be able to give your keyboard the thorough cleaning it needs, prolong its lifespan, and ensure it functions correctly.

Keyboard Cleaning Supplies

If your keyboard is getting dirty and grimy, you don't need to fret about buying expensive cleaning supplies. You can utilize simple household items that you already have at home to clean it up. There are many alternatives to clean your keyboard, and some of the most effective techniques involve using items like cotton swabs, microfiber cloths, and rubbing alcohol. With the help of these easy steps, you can keep your keyboard looking spotless and functioning smoothly. Following is a list of such alternatives:

• Brush: A soft-bristled brush can work well for cleaning your keyboard. An old toothbrush or a 1.5-inch paintbrush can be utilized here. However, if you want a more efficient cleaning experience, you can purchase a pop-up brush, which is perfect for sweeping debris out of your keyboard.
• Compressed Air: A dust-off can be best for this purpose. It is effective in removing debris by loosening it from your keyboard. You can purchase it at affordable prices.
• Cloth: You probably have microfiber cloths already, which are excellent for cleaning your keyboard. But the fancy, thin ones that you use for glasses work best. You can purchase a pack of microfiber cloths for this.
• Cleaning Slime: Cleaning gels are effective in removing dust from hard-to-reach places like a keyboard. But they have many drawbacks. Gels leave residue, which is hard to clean. The residue collection can worsen the situation with continuous deterioration. It's best to use it only if necessary.
• Cotton Swabs: These are convenient and cheap. The cotton swabs are ideal for cleaning between the keys of your keyboard.
• Isopropyl Alcohol: For a comprehensive cleaning, it is recommended to use alcohol instead of just water. While using a damp cloth or cotton swab with water is good, it may not be enough. Therefore, it is better to use a highly effective cleaner like the Max Professional spray, which is easy to use and yields excellent results.
• Magic Eraser: Melamine magic erasers can be amazingly effective for scuff marks and stubborn dirt. The regular pencil erasers can also do the trick.
• Keycap Removal Tool: If you want to take your mechanical keyboard cleaning game to the next level, then consider using a keycap removal tool. It allows for a more thorough cleaning and maintenance experience, ensuring your keyboard stays in top-notch condition for longer periods. Don't settle for subpar cleaning; upgrade your arsenal with a keycap removal tool today. This tool includes a switch puller and a pair of brushes, which costs around $7.

You will only need most of these items if your keyboard is exceptionally dirty. Try cleaning it with what you have before spending money on extras. With these household items, you can give your keyboard a thorough cleaning without spending a fortune.

How to Clean Your Keyboard

To clean your keyboard, please follow the instructions below:

1. Turn off your computer.
2. Disconnect your keyboard and remove any cables.
3. Free up the desk area and assemble your cleaning tools over it.
4. Shake your keyboard gently upside down to remove any debris.
5. Use a brush to clean between the keys.
6. Use compressed air to get rid of remaining dust particles.
7. Vacuum any debris left on your keyboard.

If your keyboard is well-maintained, the above seven steps should be enough to clean it. Use your brush to sweep debris loose gently. Slightly tilt your keyboard for better results while sweeping the debris away from the keys.

If you have compressed air, you can use it to clean your keyboard effectively. Start by using short bursts of compressed air to dislodge any dirt, dust, or debris that might have accumulated on your keyboard. However, make sure to avoid getting too close to the keys while doing this.

Once you have successfully removed the dirt from your keyboard, the next step is to ensure that all the dirt particles are eliminated. To do this, tilt your keyboard at various angles and gently blow into the gaps. This will help loosen the dirt particles and allow them to escape from your keyboard easily. By the end, your keyboard will be sparkling clean and ready to use!

Suppose you have a small brush tool specifically designed for cleaning electronic devices or a handheld vacuum cleaner. In that case, you can use it to delicately suction any dirt or debris that has accumulated on your keyboard. Go over the keyboard with the tool, ensuring that all the tiny crevices and hard-to-reach areas are covered. This will help keep your keyboard clean and free of any unwanted particles that can hinder its performance and lifespan. Ensure that you are careful while doing this to avoid damaging your keyboard.

By following these steps, you will be able to clean your keyboard effectively and keep it free from dust and dirt particles.

1. Tackling Stubborn Grime

If you're dealing with stains, spills, or oily residues, don't fret! Here are some easy steps you can take to tackle the problem head-on:

To clean your keyboard properly, start by gathering a few materials. To effectively clean your device's surface, you'll need to gather some essential items. Begin by preparing a microfiber cloth or cotton swabs, which will be used to wipe away the dirt and smudges. Next, get some water and isopropyl alcohol, which will be mixed to create a cleaning solution. A magic eraser can also be handy, particularly for tougher stains, while a regular pencil eraser can be used to rub off any marks gently. Finally, a toothpick can be useful in removing any debris that may be stuck in tight spaces. With these tools, you can ensure that your device remains spotless and in top condition.

Here are some steps for tackling stubborn grime:

• At first, unplug it and turn it upside down to shake out any loose debris.
• Next, the surface of the keyboard can be cleaned by using microfiber cloth and the crevices around the keys can be cleaned with the help of a cotton swab. Be sure to dip them in water, but make sure to dry them slightly before cleaning again. This will prevent any excess water from getting inside your keyboard.
  
• If water does not work, you can use isopropyl alcohol instead. Please remember that when cleaning your keyboard with alcohol, you should use it wisely and make sure there is proper ventilation in the room. Always use a cloth for cleaning with alcohol. Do not spray alcohol directly on the keys of the keyboard.
• If you have stubborn marks or grime, you can use a magic eraser. However, it works like fine sandpaper and should be used gently and sparingly.
• For anything that refuses to budge, you can use a toothpick. However, be careful not to damage the keyboard.

Taking the time to clean your keyboard regularly will keep your keyboard looking nice and keep it fit for ages.

2. Mechanical Keyboard Cleaning

If you own a mechanical keyboard, you might be aware that its cleaning process requires additional attention to detail. The intricate mechanisms of such keyboards tend to collect dirt particles over a period, which impacts the longevity and performance of the keyboard. To restore your mechanical keyboard to its former glory, you can follow some specific steps that involve disassembling the keyboard, cleaning it with specialized tools, and reassembling it with care. By doing so, you can enjoy a pristine and smooth typing experience with your newly cleaned keyboard.

Here's a more detailed guide to help you:

1. Take a photo of your keyboard. This will help you remember where each key goes when you reassemble it later.
2. Use a keycap removal tool to detach your keycaps carefully. Don't attempt to remove the keys on any other type of keyboard. Make sure you know how to put your keyboard back together before disassembling it.

If you are considering taking apart a keyboard for any reason, it is crucial to exercise caution. While some keyboards may be disassembled, it is essential to consult the manufacturer's guidelines beforehand to avoid damaging the device and ensure that you can reassemble it correctly. Taking apart a keyboard without proper knowledge can cause permanent damage and may even void the warranty. Therefore, it is always best to check with the manufacturer to ensure that you are following the correct procedure and that you can safely put the keyboard back together.

1. Once the keycaps are detached, put them in a bowl of warm, soapy water. Use a sponge, cloth, or brush to scrub each keycap until it is cleaned gently. Be careful not to damage any of the keycap stems. Remember to clean any debris or dirt that may have accumulated underneath your keycaps as well.
2. If you're struggling to remove those stubborn stains from your keyboard, there's a simple solution. All you need is a microfiber cloth and some isopropyl alcohol. Spray isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber cloth to clean your keyboard. With the help of isopropyl alcohol, it gets easy to remove dirt & stains. Once you've finished, rinse your keycaps in soapy water again to ensure you've removed all the dirt and stains. This method is both effective and safe for cleaning your keyboard.
3. After you've cleaned all the keycaps, let them dry completely. Remember to dry every key properly before you put your keyboard back together. You can use a towel to dry them, or you can let them air dry for a few hours.
4. Once the keycaps are dry, use the photo you took to ensure that you put all the keys back in their correct locations. This is especially important if you remove any non-standard keys, such as the space bar or shift keys. Remember to put every key in proper alignment before you push each keycap back into place.

By following these steps, your mechanical keyboard should be clean and ready to use again.

To Summarize

Regularly cleaning your keyboard is crucial to maintain its longevity and proper functioning. Cleaning your keyboard is possible in a few easy steps, but its preparation might take some time.

Firstly, it's important to turn off and unplug the keyboard from any power source. If your keyboard is wireless and has batteries, you should remove them as well. To ensure the safety of the cleaning process and prevent any electrical damage, it is important to follow this step.

To improve the functioning of your keyboard for a longer period, it's highly recommended that you take extra care to remove any dirt that may have been collected between the keys. You can do this by using compressed air or a soft-bristled brush to clean the keyboard gently. This will help to prevent any buildup. Such debris can cause the keys to malfunction, which can ultimately lead to frustration and decreased productivity. By regularly cleaning your keyboard, you can ensure that it remains in good condition for years to come.

For a more thorough cleaning, you can use a damp cloth or a cleaning solution that is safe for your keyboard's material. However, it's important to note that certain components, such as the circuit board or the switches, should not be exposed to moisture. Therefore, you should take care to use a minimal amount of liquid and avoid getting it into any crevices or openings.

After cleaning, it's best to let your keyboard sit and air dry for several hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure that all components are completely dry before you use it again.

In conclusion, while cleaning your keyboard may seem like a daunting task, it's a necessary one that can be done easily and safely with the right precautions and tools.