Tired of a Sticky, Dirty Keyboard? Here's How to Clean It!
A clean keyboard is a happy keyboard. But what happens when your keyboard gets sticky, dusty, or even a little bit gross? You might be tempted to just throw it out and buy a new one, but don't worry! There's a much easier and more economical solution: cleaning your keyboard.
Why is a clean keyboard important?
Aside from the obvious aesthetic benefits, a clean keyboard is essential for hygiene and efficiency. Dust and crumbs can clog up the keys and make them harder to press, leading to typos and frustration. It can also attract bacteria and germs, which can spread easily to your hands and face.
What You'll Need to Clean Your Keyboard
- A soft-bristled brush: A toothbrush or a small paintbrush works great.
- Compressed air: This will help remove dust and debris from the crevices of your keyboard.
- A microfiber cloth: This will be used to wipe down the keys and the outside of the keyboard.
- Isopropyl alcohol (optional): This can help sanitize the keyboard and remove sticky residue.
- Cotton swabs: These are helpful for cleaning the crevices of the keyboard and removing stubborn dirt.
How to Clean Your Keyboard
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Unplug and Disconnect: Before you start cleaning, make sure to unplug your keyboard from your computer. Also, disconnect any external devices like USB drives or Bluetooth adapters.
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Turn it Upside Down: Give your keyboard a good shake over a trash can to remove any loose debris. You can also use compressed air to blow away dust and crumbs from the crevices.
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Clean the Keys: Use a soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) to gently scrub the tops of the keys. Don't press too hard as you don't want to damage the keycaps.
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Clean the Crevices: Using cotton swabs dipped in isopropyl alcohol (if needed), clean the spaces between the keys and around the edges of the keyboard.
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Wipe Down the Keyboard: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior of the keyboard, removing any remaining dust or fingerprints. You can also use a slightly damp cloth if needed.
Tips for Cleaning a Keyboard:
- Don't use harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage the plastic on your keyboard. Stick to gentle cleaners like isopropyl alcohol or mild soap and water.
- Be careful around electronics: Avoid getting any water or liquids inside the keyboard as it can damage the internal components.
- Clean regularly: To avoid buildup of dirt and grime, clean your keyboard regularly.
Here are some additional tips for keeping your keyboard clean:
- Use a keyboard cover: A keyboard cover can help protect your keyboard from dust, spills, and crumbs.
- Avoid eating and drinking near your keyboard: It's easy to accidentally drop crumbs or spill drinks on your keyboard.
- Clean up spills immediately: If you do spill something on your keyboard, clean it up immediately to prevent damage.
Is Your Keyboard Still Not Working Properly?
If you've cleaned your keyboard but it's still not working properly, there may be a problem with the internal components. In this case, you may need to take it to a qualified technician for repair.
Conclusion
Cleaning your keyboard is a simple task that can make a big difference in the appearance, hygiene, and functionality of your workspace. By following these tips, you can keep your keyboard clean and functioning properly for years to come. Don't let a dirty keyboard get in the way of your productivity!