How to Clean a Computer Keyboard

Dust, hair, and food particles tend to accumulate in the keyboards, which can be a problem for both hygiene and appearance. But how do you clean them? In this article, I will show you some specific ways to clean your keyboards.

Why Do You Need to Clean the Keyboards?

Here are some reasons:

• If dust, hair, food, etc. accumulates in the keyboard slots, the keys may not work properly or malfunction.
• Bacteria and mold can easily grow in the keyboard keys, and touching them with your hands or face can cause health problems, such as infections and allergies.
• Dirt on the keyboard makes it look unsightly. This is especially true of white or light-colored keyboards. They tend to get dirty and lose their cleanliness.

As mentioned above, cleaning the keyboard not only maintains the performance and life of your computer, but also affects your health and beauty.

10 Tips on How to Clean Your Keyboards

Dust, hair, and food particles tend to accumulate in the keyboards, which is both a hygienic and aesthetic concern. There are many ways to clean your keyboards.

1. Use a Keyboard Vacuum

A keyboard cleaner is a special vacuum cleaner that gets into the spaces of the keyboard and sucks up dust and dirt. They are small, easy to carry, and some even charge via USB. When using the keyboard cleaner, tilt the keyboard to make it easier to remove debris. Also, if the suction is too strong, the key may come off, so be careful.

2. Clean with Tape or Sticky Paper

You can use tape or sticky paper to clean your keyboard by sticking it between the keys and pulling out the dust and dirt. Double-sided tape or masking tape works well. Sticky paper such as Post-its and sticky notes also work well. If you use tape or sticky paper, don’t press too hard or you might damage the keys. Also, when the stickiness wears off, change to a new piece.

3. Clean with a Cotton Swab or Toothbrush

You can use a cotton swab or toothbrush to clean your keyboard by brushing along the spaces between the keys and scraping out the dust and dirt. The cotton swab is soft and thin, so it can get into small spaces. The toothbrush has hard, wide bristles. It can cover a large area. If you use a cotton swab or toothbrush, make sure it’s dry. Don’t leave any moisture on the keyboard. Also, don’t use too much force. You could scratch the key or damage internal parts.

4. Clean with an Air Duster

An air duster is a type of spray can that uses air pressure to blow away dust and dirt. You can use an air duster to clean your keyboard and spray it toward the spaces between the keys. When using an air duster, tilt the keyboard to help remove dust. Also, shake the air duster well before you use it. It can become cold or liquid. In addition, the air duster is highly flammable. Don’t use it near open flames or high temperatures.

5. Clean with Slime or Clay

You can use slime or clay to clean your keyboard by pressing it between keys to trap dust and dirt. Slime and clay are soft and sticky, so they can fit into small cracks. When using slime or clay, be careful not to damage the keys. Also, make sure you don’t leave any slime or clay on the keyboard.

6. Use a Keyboard Cover

A keyboard cover is a thin layer of material that protects your keyboard from dust and dirt. You can use a keyboard cover by finding one that fits your keyboard size and placing it over the keys. A keyboard cover can help keep your keyboard clean and prevent damage. Be sure to remove and wash the cover regularly. The cover can also affect key feel and sound, so choose one that suits you.

7. Disassemble the Keyboard

Disassembling the keyboard means removing and cleaning each key. This method removes any dust or dirt that may be trapped between the keys. You need special tools or tweezers to disassemble the keyboard. You also need to remember or take a picture of how the keys are arranged and oriented. Keyboard disassembly can be tricky and risky, so if you are unsure, leave it to a professional or buy a new keyboard.

8. Use a Keyboard Cleaner

A keyboard cleaner is a special liquid that cleans your keyboard. You can use a keyboard cleaner by spraying it on your keyboard and wiping it off with a cloth. A keyboard cleaner can remove not only dust and dirt but also oil and fingerprints from your keyboard. When using keyboard cleaner, be sure to dry the keyboard and avoid getting it in your eyes or skin.

9. Use a Keyboard Brush

A keyboard brush is a small brush that fits into the spaces in your keyboard and sweeps away dust and dirt. It is convenient and portable. Some types can be stored inside the handle. To clean the keyboard, insert the brush into the spaces between the keys and brush gently. Be careful not to use too much force when using a keyboard brush.

10. Use Paper Towels or Tissue Paper

Kitchen paper or tissue paper can help you get rid of the tiny bits of dust that often get trapped in the keyboard spaces. Just fold some paper, insert it into the gap, and gently rub it. If you see any dust, flip the paper over, use a new one, and repeat. This method also cleans the surface of the keyboard, so it’s a win-win. But be careful not to use wet paper, because it might damage the keyboard with moisture. Use dry paper as much as possible.

The keyboard gaps are prone to accumulate dirt, so you should clean them regularly. Each method has its pros and cons, so pick the one that suits your situation and preference. By cleaning it, you can make your keyboard last longer and enjoy a smooth typing experience. Give it a try.