How to Clean a Keyboard

Shut down the computer and detach the keyboard connector before any cleaning procedure., For a quick cleaning, turn the keyboard upside down and use a can of compressed air to blow out any foreign matter., Clean the sides of the keys with a cotton...

7 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Shut down the computer and detach the keyboard connector before any cleaning procedure.

    Do not remove or connect a keyboard while the computer is running.

    Doing so may damage the machine if you have a non-USB-based keyboard.

    Detaching the keyboard while the computer is running is safe when the keyboard is connected to the computer via USB.
  2. Step 2: For a quick cleaning

    Be sure to do this in a location where falling debris can be cleaned up easily.

    Turn the keyboard upside down and tap on it a few times.

    You should see a bit of dirt fall out.

    Change the angle and tap harder to make most of it get out. ,, Do this by gently prying up each key with a small screwdriver or a similar lever.

    When the keys have been removed, blow out any debris with compressed air.

    With a moist (but not wet) cloth, lightly swab all surfaces.

    Do not allow any type of fluid to enter the keyboard. ,
  3. Step 3: turn the keyboard upside down and use a can of compressed air to blow out any foreign matter.

  4. Step 4: Clean the sides of the keys with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

  5. Step 5: For a more thorough cleaning

  6. Step 6: remove all of the keys.

  7. Step 7: Clean the individual keys and place them back in the keyboard.

Detailed Guide

Do not remove or connect a keyboard while the computer is running.

Doing so may damage the machine if you have a non-USB-based keyboard.

Detaching the keyboard while the computer is running is safe when the keyboard is connected to the computer via USB.

Be sure to do this in a location where falling debris can be cleaned up easily.

Turn the keyboard upside down and tap on it a few times.

You should see a bit of dirt fall out.

Change the angle and tap harder to make most of it get out. ,, Do this by gently prying up each key with a small screwdriver or a similar lever.

When the keys have been removed, blow out any debris with compressed air.

With a moist (but not wet) cloth, lightly swab all surfaces.

Do not allow any type of fluid to enter the keyboard. ,

About the Author

P

Peter Jenkins

Peter Jenkins is an experienced writer with over 17 years of expertise in consulting. Passionate about sharing practical knowledge, Peter creates easy-to-follow guides that help readers achieve their goals.

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