Cleaning Your Keyboard

DO IT:  Monthly, or as necessary.

OK, we all do it.  You do it too.  We know we’re not supposed to, but we do it anyway.  We eat and drink near our computers.  Even worse, we  turn a blind eye when our kids do it too – it’s just not worth the argument.  So inevitably, our keyboard has some errant crumbs and a coffee stain or two.  How do we clean it?

What You’ll Need:

Soft cloth     
Mild Cleaning Solution
Compressed Air

Step 1:
Turn your computer off and unplug the keyboard from your computer.  Never plug or unplug your keyboard or mouse while the computer is running, as you can damage the port on the computer.  Be sure to remember the location of the connection so you can plug it back in when you are done.  Or you can put a small piece of masking tape near the connection as reminder. 

Step 2:
Turn the keyboard upside down and shake gently (preferably over a garbage can) to remove crumbs and small pieces that may be stuck between the keys. While the keyboard is upside down, use a can of compressed air to dislodge any large particles that do not shake loose.  If you do not have a can of compressed air, the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner will also do a pretty good job. 

Step 3:
Using a soft cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution, wipe any dirt off the keys. A moist cotton swab can be used to clean between the keys, if necessary. Be careful not to add to much liquid as it might drop into the spaces between the keys and damage the circuits.  A can of compressed air can be used to dislodge any large particles that do not shake loose. Again hold the keyboard upside down and use the long straw nozzle that comes with the can of air to clean between the keys.

Step 4:
Let the keyboard dry completely before reattaching it to the computer.

TIP:  If you (or the kids!) are consistently spilling on the keyboard, you may want to consider purchasing a protective flexible clear plastic key cover or skin that covers the keyboard.

If you spill a liquid on your keyboard, unplug it immediately and turn it over to drain out all of the liquid.  Clean it with a damp sponge soaked in a weak soap and water mixture.  Be diligent not to over saturate the keyboard.  Then let dry upside down completely (overnight) and reattach it to the computer. If the keyboard does not work at all, prepare to buy a new keyboard. If you acted quickly, the keyboard should still work. If you spilled coffee or tea, the keyboard will generally work properly. Soft drinks, however, can cause the keys to stick.

Next Page