Preparation and Tools Needed
Before starting, gather compressed air, keycap puller, isopropyl alcohol, microfiber cloth, and cotton swabs. Disconnect the keyboard and work on a spacious, well-lit surface to avoid losing any small parts or keys.
Removing and Cleaning Keycaps
Use a keycap puller to gently remove keycaps. Soak them in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes. This surprisingly simple method can remove years of grime. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before reattaching.
Deep Cleaning the Switches
Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol to clean around switches. For a deeper clean, consider using a contact cleaner spray. Compressed air can be used to blow out dust and debris, ensuring all particles are removed.
Cleaning the Keyboard Case
Wipe the keyboard's exterior and interior with a microfiber cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Pay attention to crevices where dust accumulates. Amazingly, a soft-bristled toothbrush can help dislodge stubborn dirt.
Reassembling and Final Checks
Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling. Reattach keycaps by pressing them firmly onto switches. Perform a final check by plugging in the keyboard and testing each key to ensure proper functionality.
Unexpected Keyboard Dirt Source
Studies reveal that keyboards can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat, making regular cleaning essential for hygiene.