A dirty keyboard, often plagued by grime and oil, directly impacts typing efficiency. Regular keyboard maintenance, achievable through simple techniques, extends the device’s lifespan. Apple, a prominent technology organization, offers guidance on properly sanitizing its keyboards. The microfiber cloth, a readily available tool, is instrumental in removing surface-level grease. This article provides easy steps that focus on how to clean greasy keyboard and bring it back to a like-new state.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Jerry Schulze , from the video titled Shiny MacBook Keys? .
Clean Greasy Keyboard: Easy Steps for a Like-New Keyboard
This guide will walk you through the steps to effectively clean a greasy keyboard and restore it to a like-new condition. A clean keyboard is not only aesthetically pleasing but also more hygienic and can even improve your typing experience. We’ll cover everything from gathering the necessary materials to the final touches.
Preparing for the Cleaning Process
Before you begin, proper preparation is key to a successful and safe cleaning. This section covers the necessary precautions and the supplies you’ll need.
Safety First
- Power Down: Always disconnect your keyboard from your computer or power source before cleaning. This prevents any accidental short circuits or damage.
- Avoid Liquids: Never submerge your keyboard in water or any cleaning solution. Excess liquid can severely damage the internal components.
- Gentle is Key: Avoid using excessive force when cleaning. Be gentle to prevent damage to the keys or keyboard surface.
Gathering Your Supplies
Having the right tools and cleaning agents will make the process much easier and more effective. Here’s a list of essential supplies:
- Compressed Air: This is crucial for blasting away loose debris and dust particles trapped between the keys.
- Microfiber Cloths: Soft, lint-free cloths are ideal for wiping down surfaces without scratching them.
- Isopropyl Alcohol (70% or lower): Diluted isopropyl alcohol is an effective disinfectant and cleaner for keyboards. Higher concentrations can be too harsh.
- Cotton Swabs (Q-tips): Perfect for reaching into tight spaces and cleaning around individual keys.
- Small Bowl of Warm Water: Used for dampening cloths.
- Keycap Puller (Optional): This tool makes removing keycaps much easier and safer, preventing damage to the keyboard. If you don’t have one, a small flathead screwdriver carefully used can work.
- Dish Soap (Optional): A mild dish soap can be used in combination with water for a deeper clean of keycaps.
Removing Loose Debris
The first step in cleaning a greasy keyboard is to remove any loose debris, crumbs, and dust particles.
Using Compressed Air
- Angle the Keyboard: Turn your keyboard upside down.
- Short Bursts: Use compressed air in short bursts to dislodge particles from between the keys and crevices.
- Targeted Areas: Focus on areas with visible debris buildup.
- Repeat as Needed: Continue until most of the loose particles are removed.
Gentle Shaking
- Flip and Tap: After using compressed air, gently flip the keyboard and tap the back to loosen any remaining particles.
- Over a Trash Can: Do this over a trash can to avoid spreading debris around your workspace.
Deep Cleaning the Keycaps
For a truly thorough clean, removing the keycaps allows you to clean them separately and address any grime trapped beneath.
Removing the Keycaps
- Use a Keycap Puller: Gently insert the keycap puller onto the keycap and pull straight up.
- Alternative Method (Flathead Screwdriver): If you don’t have a keycap puller, carefully use a small flathead screwdriver. Wrap the tip of the screwdriver with a thin cloth to prevent scratches. Gently pry up one side of the keycap and then the other.
- Organize Keycaps: Place the removed keycaps in a container. Taking a picture of the keyboard layout before removing keys will make reassembly much easier.
Cleaning the Keycaps
There are a couple of ways to clean the keycaps:
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Soaking in Soapy Water:
- Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Soak the keycaps for 15-30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow to air dry completely before reattaching.
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Wiping with Isopropyl Alcohol:
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70% or lower).
- Wipe each keycap individually to remove grease and grime.
- Allow to air dry completely before reattaching.
Cleaning the Keyboard Surface Underneath
While the keycaps are drying, take the opportunity to clean the keyboard surface itself.
- Damp Cloth and Isopropyl Alcohol: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol.
- Wipe the Surface: Gently wipe the keyboard surface, paying attention to areas with visible grease or grime.
- Cotton Swabs: Use cotton swabs dipped in isopropyl alcohol to reach into tight spaces and corners.
Final Touches and Reassembly
Once everything is clean and dry, it’s time to reassemble your keyboard.
Reattaching the Keycaps
- Refer to Your Photo (If Taken): Use the photo you took earlier as a reference to ensure you place the keycaps in the correct positions.
- Press Firmly: Gently press each keycap back onto its switch until it clicks into place.
- Double-Check: Ensure all keycaps are securely attached and in the correct positions.
Final Wipe Down
- Dry Microfiber Cloth: Give the entire keyboard a final wipe down with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any fingerprints or smudges.
Your keyboard should now be clean, hygienic, and ready for use. Regular cleaning can help prevent future buildup of grease and grime.
FAQs: Cleaning Your Greasy Keyboard
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you keep your keyboard clean and performing at its best. We hope these answers give you confidence to tackle that grime!
How often should I clean my greasy keyboard?
Ideally, you should wipe down your keyboard weekly to prevent grease and grime buildup. A deep clean, following the steps outlined in the article, should be done every 1-3 months, depending on your usage.
What if I don’t have isopropyl alcohol?
While isopropyl alcohol is recommended for disinfecting and quick drying, you can use a diluted vinegar solution (equal parts white vinegar and water). Be sure to wring out the cloth very well to avoid getting any liquid inside the keyboard. A damp, not wet, cloth is essential when cleaning a greasy keyboard.
Can I use compressed air on a mechanical keyboard?
Yes, compressed air is excellent for removing dust and debris from between the keys of a mechanical keyboard. Hold the can at an angle and use short bursts to avoid damaging any components. This helps prevent build-up and makes cleaning your greasy keyboard more effective in the long run.
What’s the best way to prevent a greasy keyboard in the first place?
Practice good hygiene by washing your hands before using your computer. Avoid eating near your keyboard, and consider using a keyboard cover. Regular light cleaning will also prevent grease and grime from accumulating and turning into a larger problem. Keeping your hands and work environment clean goes a long way toward stopping a greasy keyboard from developing.
So, there you have it – easy ways to tackle that clean greasy keyboard! Give these tips a try and get back to typing on a fresh, clean surface. Happy cleaning!