Clean Your Keyboard - Easy Advice From The Experts

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

Whether you are a gamer, a die-hard professional, or a student, you need to take care of your keyboard. According to one study, 96% of sampled keyboards were contaminated with bacteria. That's a bit of a shocking statistic, right ?! Just like your phone, computer accessories are one of the most affected surfaces in your home and in the office. For this reason, knowing how to clean your keyboard is essential, especially now in times of a viral pandemic. So, without further ado, we will share with you the expert advice for a perfect disinfection, no matter if it is a laptop or a wired keyboard. You will also find special tips for owners of an Apple product.

How to properly clean your computer keyboard?

Before you click and type on your keyboard, take a few minutes to clean it up well. Follow the advice of the experts at least twice a month to make sure you have a clean surface that is free from germs. The good news is, you can do this using tools you can find at home. However, since the keyboard can get sticky, in addition to being stuffed with debris, it may need to be deep cleaned using a combination of cleaning methods. In this case, you will have to buy some inexpensive cleaning products.

1. The first thing you need to do is disconnect the keyboard from the computer before cleaning it. You don't want to accidentally send someone an email, do you? So, don't forget about this safety measure. If you have a wireless keyboard, remove the batteries, especially if you plan to deep clean the keys.

2. Turn the keypad upside down so that debris falls naturally. If you have a can of compressed air, use it to blow out the extra leftovers. If not, use your blow dryer.

3. Use a damp, soft cloth, such as microfiber, to wipe the keys and keyboard. The keys are covered with a special coating that prevents the letters from fading. So, the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials for cleaning them could irreparably damage this coating and cause an even more serious problem later.

4. When it comes to removing dried grime from hard-to-reach places on the keyboard, use a lightly moistened cotton swab or a dry, soft toothbrush. Another possibility is to take a toothpick as well.

5. For an even deeper cleaning, remove the individual keys from your keyboard. Many external accessories allow you to do this, but in any case consult your keyboard manual or ask a specialist.

6. After cleaning the keyboard, be sure to let it dry before plugging it back in and using it.

How to clean your laptop keyboard?

We have already explained to you how to disinfect your phone to avoid contamination from the coronavirus and now, we continue with the laptop. Before you start, do not forget to turn it off, disconnect it from any power source. If possible, you can also remove the battery.

1. To remove debris between the keys, use a can of compressed air. Make sure the straw is secure to control the airflow. Never turn the compressed air can upside down while spraying. This could spray propellant instead of air and damage your keyboard.

If you're wondering how to clean your Mac keyboard, Apple's advice is to hold your laptop at a 75-degree angle, so it's not quite vertical. Afterwards, you can use the can of compressed air to spray the keyboard or just the affected keys, in a left to right motion. Then, proceed directly to point 3.

2. You can also use clear tape to clean the area between the keys and to pick up additional debris. It is also advisable to stick the tape under the keys and maneuver it for a deep cleaning. Another alternative is cleaning paste. Press the spaces between the keys several times and lift up, picking up the dirt as you go.

3. Wipe the keyboard with a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth slightly moistened with water. Avoid introducing moisture directly into the openings and never spray water directly on the keyboard.

How to disinfect your computer accessories?

Disinfecting your home and your computer are two different things. So you have to be careful with the products you use. To disinfect the keyboard, take a 70% isopropyl alcohol based wipe or Clorox disinfectant wipes. Never use bleach! Gently wipe the surfaces without soaking your keyboard with the disinfectant. Instead, you need to do a quick overhaul. Use the same disinfectants to clean other electronic accessories like mice and headphones.

Cleaning paste to clean dust

Use a can of compressed air to spray the keyboard

Remove keyboard keys if necessary and if possible

Sources: apple.com

today.com

businessinsider.com