How to Clean a Keyboard
Make your keyboard like new!
If you're a regular computer user like me, it's likely that your well-used keyboard has gotten a little dirty with oil and dust. This brief shows you how to clean a keyboard in 5 easy steps.
Equipment You'll Need:
- A sheet of microfiber cloth.
- A clean rag.
- A compressed air can with extended nozzle.
- An aerosol cleaning fluid (such as Endust for Electronics).
Most of these products you'll already own, but all are cheaply available at computer stores.
Step 1:
Turn off your computer and disconnect the keyboard from the CPU. Refer to the keyboard user instructions for any safety risks or recommendations.
Step 2:
Run the microfiber cloth gently over each of the keyboard keys, making sure to run over each of the keys at least once. This absorbs oil and grease from fingers.
Step 3:
Next, attach the extended nozzle onto the can of compressed air. When blowing out dust and grit from under the keys, angle the nozzle at 45o to the keyboard, as this helps force dust up and out. Remember to use the can in short bursts only, otherwise it is likely that it will condense and some fluid will spill on the keyboard (if this does happen, just remove as much as possible using the microfiber cloth). Shoot air under each of the keys, and when you've finished, turn the keyboard over and gently shake any excess dust.
Step 4:
Follow the manufacturers instructions in the application of aerosol cleaning fluid to a rag - usually only a very small amount is needed. Gently wipe over all the keys to remove any remaining surface grime.
Step 5:
Allow the keyboard to dry completely before reconnecting to the CPU and enjoy using your sweaky-clean computer keyboard.