
How to Clean a Keyboard
Regular cleaning of a keyboard is essential for keeping it in good a condition and upping its performance. A cleaning regimen would be appreciated by the device. That way, it would be able to serve you better. Here are some tips regarding the same.
Palmira S
Last Updated: Mar 15, 2019
Before you start cleaning it, check the manufacturer's instructions. If specific instructions have been provided, follow them, else you can implement these tips.
- Shut down the computer, unplug the keyboard, and hold it upside down. Tap on it and shake it a few times, so that all the debris in between the keys is released. You can also press the keys, so that the debris in between the keys fall out.
With a can of compressed air, you can blow the debris, dust, or foreign materials present under and around the keys. The debris can also be cleaned with the hose of a vacuum cleaner. Tap the keyboard in another angle, so that all the remaining dust falls out.
- You can also use the product called Endust for Electronics, for cleaning. If you are using this fluid for cleaning, then follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. The cloth should be moist and not wet.
- The next step is to wipe the keyboard with a dry cloth or a duster.
- For meticulous cleaning of the keyboard, remove the keys with a small screwdriver or a similar tool. Ease the screwdriver beneath the key and lightly lift the key-top off. After removing the keys, use compressed air or a vacuum cleaner to remove the debris or dust present inside the keyboard.
Clean all the keys using the fluid and a cloth, and then wipe with a dry cloth. While removing the keys, be careful, so that it doesn't cause a problem while replacing. If required, allow the keyboard to dry before plugging in.
Cleaning a Laptop Keyboard
- Materials required for cleaning a laptop keyboard are cotton swabs, cosmetic foam, rubber cleaning pads, paper towels, water, screw driver, cleaning fluid, fine-tipped tweezers, scissors, kitchen strainer, a household cleaner like windex and a lubricant.
- Clean the keyboard with a cotton swab, slightly dampened in water. For extremely small pieces, cut the rubber foam in pieces and use the tweezers for cleaning. Repeat this process with alcohol and cotton swabs. Finally, repeat the same with naphtha and foam rubber.
- Place all keys and rubber components in a kitchen strainer and spray household cleaner on them. Let it stand for 5 minutes. Rinse them with hot water and place them on paper towels. Fold the towels over the keys and rubber components, so that all the water is soaked. Let them dry completely.
- Place all the keys in bottom-up position on a paper bag. Coat them with a lubricant from all four sides. Let it dry. Do not overdo this step as it might damage the keys.
- Finally, place all the rubber components and keys in their respective places.
Cleaning the keyboard regularly will increase its durability, performance, and lifespan. Only when you start following a regimen, would you know how fruitful the practice, indeed is.