Let’s be honest — when was the last time you cleaned your keyboard? Most of us are too busy working, have other priorities, or just don’t even think that it’s something to be cleaned. There are so many things that can get stuck in a keyboard — from food, to dust, to pet hair. Finding ways to clean a keyboard can be like trying to solve a puzzle. Figuring out how to remove key caps, and getting in hard-to-reach areas isn’t easy. This guide will break down how to properly clean a computer keyboard.
How to Start to Clean a Keyboard
Unplug Keyboard
You have decided to take on the task of cleaning your keyboard. The first thing you want to do is make sure your keyboard is unplugged and on a clear desk. You don’t want dirt and dust from your keyboard to get onto other peripherals, causing double the work. Your computer doesn’t have to be turned off when you unplug your keyboard, so no worries there if you leave your computer on.
Check the Manual
After unplugging, look up your keyboard’s manual for ways to safely remove keycaps and other tips. If you’re like me and throw away your manual after buying something new, try to find the manual online. The manual can also tell you areas to avoid when cleaning, especially if you have a display or RGB lighting.
Turn it Upside Down
Now, let’s get our hands dirty. Turn the keyboard upside down and let your crumbs rain down. I strongly recommend doing this over paper towels or a newspaper. That way, you can collect the crumbs and dump them into a trash can. Now, you’re gonna find some stuff that will make you go, “How long was that in there for?!” It’s completely normal, so don’t be ashamed.
Please note: Do not bang on the keyboard to get any stuck crumbs out. This will do more harm than good. There are tools that will help you in removing those hard-to-reach spots.
Once you’ve flipped over your keyboard and got the initial crumbs out, turn it back over and get ready to excavate. The next steps will require some tools — either ones you already have or new ones I would recommend purchasing. I understand that buying something to clean your keyboard may sound unnecessary. Although, the same tools you use for your keyboard, you can also use on cameras, mice, and other equipment you have in your house. It’s great to have a box of all your cleaning supplies for monitors, peripherals, and tech. Plus, a clean space improves work and mental health!
Brush It Out
Now, instead of banging on your keyboard, there are a ton of ways to remove the hard-to-reach crumbs. One of them is a brush. These Otis Receiver Brushes aren’t made specifically for keyboards, but they will work perfectly. Stick with the Nylon brush in this variety pack, so you don’t scratch your keyboard. It’s a perfect soft brush that allows you to get under keycaps and small crevices. Gently use the brush in and around the keyboard. Don’t try to jam the brush into any open areas.
The other option you can use is a toothbrush, Q-tip, or a cleaning towel. This Foam Cleanser and Microfiber combo from KontrolFreek is a great addition to brushing. The foam removes grease, grime, and oil from your fingertips. You’d be surprised how much that builds up on a keyboard. You’d also be surprised at how shiny your keyboard will be after using it. A Q-tip won’t be as thorough and efficient as a brush or cleanser, but it’s not a bad beginner tool.
Blow It Out
Now, even after a good brushing and cleansing, there can still be dirt in your keyboard. This is why we recommend using a keyboard blower. The Giottos Rocket Air Blaster is the perfect way to push some air into your keyboard without causing damage. The Giottos doesn’t need batteries and doesn’t need to be plugged in. The nozzle is great for getting under keycaps and blowing out dust. This is a great tool to have on your desk. It doesn’t take up space, and you’re good after a couple squeezes.
Another great keyboard air cleaner is this Metro DataVac, which comes with a variety of nozzles and can also be used for your cameras and other tech devices. This is a bit more heavy duty than your average air blaster. What I love about the Metro DataVac is that you don’t need to keep buying air canisters. The power cord is 12 feet long, which is incredible if your outlets are farther away. The 500 watt motor will be stronger and more efficient than any air can.
You can also use a keyboard vacuum, just be careful and use a nozzle that won’t suck a keycap into the vacuum.
Use a Cleaning Gel
For those keyboards that don’t have removable keycaps, and smaller areas to reach, there is a cleaning gel. It’s a gel-like putty that oozes into the smallest crevices to remove dust, dirt and debris. It’s pretty cool, and easy to clean after use. I’ve seen people use this for keyboards, cameras, and their cars. Just place the putty right on top of the keyboard and remove.
What Not to Do When You Clean a Keyboard
DON’T Keep it Plugged In
When in the midst of cleaning, it’s easy to forget the safety precautions. When cleaning a keyboard, you want to be extra mindful. Remember to unplug the keyboard before cleaning and make sure it is off (if it uses batteries). Leaving a keyboard plugged in while cleaning could do more harm. The last thing you want to do is buy a new keyboard.
DON’T Use Too Much Moisture
Don’t use liquids when cleaning a keyboard. Any foam, gel or spray you use should have very little moisture. Liquid not only damages a keyboard, but it can prevent keys and RGB lighting from working.
DON’T Use Harsh Chemicals
Refrain from using rubbing alcohol, or other chemicals. They will tarnish and remove lettering on your keys. You will start to see discoloration and your fingers could even get irritated as well.
DON’T Force the Keycaps Out
Lastly, when removing keycaps, be sure to read the manual and use the tools provided with the keyboard. If a keycap isn’t coming out, don’t force it. If you break the module inside, you’ll have to replace the entire keyboard. It’s always good to watch some videos on YouTube on how to properly remove a keycap for your model.
You’d be surprised how much a clean keyboard helps your mental health. Just like a cleaned room, it will have you feeling refreshed as well The amount of oil, grime, and dust that builds on a keyboard is sometimes unnoticeable. We spend hours on our keyboards — either gaming, working or studying. Put some love and care into your equipment and they’ll last longer. You’ll be glad you did.
