Computer keyboards, especially those of laptops, often accumulate significant amounts of dust and bacteria due to frequent contact with our hands. So, how can one efficiently clean a laptop keyboard without the need for professional services? Let’s explore the process of how to clean a computer keyboard at home with Repair Centre in the following article.
I. Why regular keyboard cleanning is necessary?
Computers are common devices that we frequently use in our work. Due to direct contact with hands through keystrokes, keyboards are prone to accumulating dust and bacteria, posing potential health hazards. Particularly, keyboards with high-key designs have small, inaccessible gaps that make cleaning challenging.
This characteristic renders these unseen crevices susceptible to dust and bacteria infiltration, seldom addressed during cleaning. A dirty computer keyboard not only affects aesthetic appeal but also harbors various health risks. Dust and bacteria can lead to issues with skin and respiratory systems, escalating health concerns.
Moreover, if a keyboard remains dusty for an extended period, it can impact the device’s operational performance. Accumulated grease, dirt, and other agents can reduce key sensitivity or cause technical malfunctions.
Therefore, maintaining regular hygiene for a computer keyboard not only enhances device performance and longevity but also ensures user health and safety. To properly clean a keyboard, let’s explore the simplest methods for how to clean a computer keyboard in the following content with Repair Centre.
II. How to clean a computer keyboard as a standard
1. Tools to Prepare
Brush: A brush is a useful tool for removing dust and debris from the gaps between keys. It is advisable to choose a nylon brush with a gentle, small-headed design, such as a toothbrush, to ensure effective cleaning without exerting excessive force on the device.
Air spray with a nozzle attachment: This tool is employed to blow away dust from areas where brushes may not reach deeply. Utilizing this method of how to clean a computer keyboard helps eliminate dust from small and hard-to-access crevices.
Cleaning gel designed to quickly attract and remove dirt, thanks to its gelatinous composition. Apply the gel onto the keyboard and gently press down; the gel will adhere to the keys, effectively eliminating fine layers of dust and leaving your keyboard clean.
Specialized cleaning solution: Use a soap-based solution with strong cleansing properties to clean accumulated dirt on the keyboard. Dilute the soap with water in a small bowl, then use a clean cloth to gently wipe the keyboard surface.
2. Performing Keyboard Maintenance
With the aforementioned tools, you can execute how to clean a computer keyboard as follows:
- Step 1: Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
- Step 2: Use a soft brush to gently remove dust and debris from the surface of the computer.
- Step 3: Then, use an air spray with a nozzle attachment to blow away dust and debris hidden in the crevices and gaps of the computer.
- Step 4: For hard-to-reach areas such as between the keys on the keyboard, you can utilize a specialized cleaning solution and a small brush for thorough cleaning.
- Step 5: For more meticulous hygiene, you may disassemble components like the keyboard or hard drive and clean them. Before disassembling, take pictures for easy reassembly after cleaning.
- Step 6: Upon completing the cleaning process, allow the computer to dry completely before restarting and resuming use.
Read more: HOW MUCH TO REPAIR A PHONE SCREEN NEAR ME?
III. How to clean a mechanical keyboard safely
1. Tools to prepare
The mechanical structure of a keyboard is quite unique, with elevated key switches resulting in numerous crevices that make the cleaning process more challenging compared to conventional computer keyboards. To clean a mechanical keyboard, you should prepare the following tools:
- Key puller tool: This tool facilitates the easy removal of each key without compromising the keyboard’s mechanical structure.
- Soft and damp cloth: Used for wiping the keyboard’s surface clean without causing scratches or damage.
- Liquid hand soap: Can be employed to clean keys and the keyboard surface, effectively removing grease and dust.
- Isopropyl alcohol (90%): Used to clean hard-to-reach areas and aids in quick drying after wiping. Additionally, cotton swabs are useful for cleaning small gaps and inaccessible areas on the mechanical keyboard.
2. How to clean a computer keyboard with a cleaning solution
To create a simple and effective cleaning solution for a computer keyboard, you will need two main components: liquid hand soap and 90% isopropyl alcohol. The accurate mixing ratio for this solution is 2 parts alcohol combined with 1 part water.
By preparing the solution in this proportion, you generate a potent cleaning mixture with the ability to effectively eliminate bacteria and remove grease from the keyboard.
3. Procedure for cleanning a computer keyboard
- Step 1: Utilize a key puller tool to carefully remove each mechanical key from the keyboard, ensuring a meticulous process to avoid damaging the keyboard’s structure.
- Step 2: Subsequently, use the previously prepared keyboard cleaning solution to soak and clean each removed key thoroughly. Clean each key diligently to eliminate dust. You can use cotton swabs dipped in the cleaning solution to wipe each row and small crevices on the keyboard.
- Step 3: After completing the cleaning process, reassemble the keys onto the keyboard in their original positions, referring to the previously taken images. This ensures cleanliness and optimal performance for your mechanical keyboard after each cleaning.
If you are hesitant to disassemble the keys during each cleaning, you may try the following method for how to clean a computer keyboard:
- Step 1: Immediately after using the keyboard, disconnect it from the CPU to ensure no power is supplied to the keyboard.
- Step 2: Use a specialized brush or a soft brush to gently sweep across the keyboard, focusing on the gaps and crevices. This minimizes the accumulation of dust on the keyboard after each use.
- Step 3: Next, use a damp cloth to gently wipe the surface of the keyboard. Then, quickly dry it with a dry cloth to ensure the keyboard remains dry and clean. This process helps prevent the buildup of grease and dust, without affecting the internal circuits of the keyboard.
By following these steps, you can maintain the cleanliness and optimal performance of your keyboard without the need to disassemble keys after each cleaning.
IV. How to clean a laptop keyboard
1. Tools for Cleaning a Laptop Keyboard
When it comes to cleaning a laptop keyboard, you can easily find the necessary tools at laptop care stores or on various e-commerce platforms, offering a diverse range of options to suit your preferences and budget.
A specialized cleaning kit typically includes:
- Laptop keyboard brush: Designed to navigate into small gaps between keys, effectively removing dust and debris.
- Gentle dusting cloth: Used to delicately wipe the keyboard’s surface, eliminating dust and grease without causing scratches or damage.
- Silicone gel: Removes dust and debris, especially from the smallest and hardest-to-clean crevices on the keyboard.
2. How to clean laptop keyboard keys
- Step 1: Completely power off the laptop and disconnect the charging cable before commencing the cleaning process to prevent any unwanted data loss.
- Step 2: Invert the laptop and gently shake it to dislodge larger debris from the keyboard.
- Step 3: Utilize a compressed air canister, spraying it into the gaps of the laptop keyboard to displace dust from these areas. Tilt the laptop to ensure even coverage of all gaps.
- Step 4: Use a cloth or silicone gel to wipe the keyboard, then employ a brush to thoroughly sweep through remaining gaps and corners.
- Step 5: Use alcohol-soaked cotton swabs to clean the gaps and surfaces of the keyboard.
- Step 6: Employ a disinfectant cloth to sanitize and disinfect the keyboard, promoting health and preventing the spread of bacteria.
- Step 7: Finally, use a hairdryer to dry the keyboard, ensuring no water residue is left to avoid potential damage to the laptop. Regularly how to clean a computer keyboard not only enhances its performance but also extends its lifespan.
V. Consider when cleaning a keyboard
In addition to the methods how to clean a computer keyboard mentioned above, there are some important considerations to take into account when storing and cleaning to ensure the safety and performance of your computer.
- Power off and disconnect from the power source before cleaning: Before initiating the cleaning process, turn off the laptop and disconnect the charging cable to ensure safety for both you and the computer.
- Avoid using excessively moist solutions: Refrain from using a large amount of water or cleaning solution when wiping the keyboard, as water may penetrate inside the machine and cause damage.
- Use appropriate cleaning tools: Select tools such as soft brushes, compressed air canisters, and gentle cloths to clean the keyboard without damaging the internal components.
- Store in a dry environment: Avoid placing the laptop in a humid environment, as this may create favorable conditions for mold and bacteria growth.
- Pay attention when using cleaning gel: Ensure that the gel does not contain harsh chemicals and is evenly applied to prevent residue buildup.
Following the periodic procedure on how to clean a computer keyboard will help the computer operate more efficiently, extend its lifespan, and ensure health and safety.
During computer usage and maintenance, you may encounter unforeseen issues. If you discover unexpected problems during keyboard cleaning or disassembly, do not hesitate to bring your computer to the Repair Centre – the official support center. Here, a team of experts will assist you in resolving issues and ensuring the stability of your computer.
The provided methods are common ways to clean a computer keyboard, maintaining cleanliness and efficient operation. Hopefully, these instructions will help you maintain and preserve your computer in the best possible condition. Don’t forget to follow the Repair Centre for updates on useful information about cleaning and maintaining computers, phones, iPads, and more!
