How to Clean a Keyboard
The keyboard is the part of the computer that get the most dirty easily. Our hands are the biggest culprit, and we contribute a lot in the buildup of dirt and grime. There are many ways of cleaning your keyboard. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your keyboard clean and well-maintained:
Before Getting Started
Turn your laptop off completely and if it’s plugged in, unplug it. Make sure that you have removed the mouse, CDs, USB drives or external hard drives before proceeding.
Keeping the Keys Intact
Some keyboards have keys that are easy to remove for cleaning purposes. However, if you’re not sure how to remove the keys properly, you’re better sticking with cleaning the keyboard full intact.
What You’ll Need
Old but clean cotton shirt
Compressed air
Keyboard vacuum cleaner
Foam rubber
Scissors
Water
Alcohol
Steps:
Tilt your keyboard at an angle and use compressed air to coax out the bigger dirt particles. Don’t hold the can of compressed air too close to the keyboard; just hold it around ten inches away, enough to give it a good blast.
You can also use a keyboard vacuum cleaner which you can simply plug in a USB port to get to work (this will mean that your computer must be turned on, though).
Another simple method of getting the debris out of the keyboard is to simply turn the keyboard upside-down and tap gently.
Using a mixture made from one part water and one part alcohol, dampen the cotton shirt and use it to clean the keyboard keys. Make sure that the cloth is not dripping wet, as that may cause damage to the keyboard. To get in the tricky corners of the keyboard, use a cotton swab or a small piece of foam rubber dampened with the same alcohol and water mixture. Allow your keyboard to air dry for four to six hours, and you’re good to go.
Keeping your keyboard clean will ensure you that your keyboard will be around for awhile for all your computer needs.