Keyboard Cleaning Essentials

Keyboards can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat. Regular cleaning is essential not only for hygiene but also for functionality, preventing sticky keys and typing errors.

Before cleaning, unplug the keyboard or power off the device. Remove batteries if applicable. This ensures safety and prevents damage to the keyboard's electronic components.

Start by inverting and gently shaking the keyboard to dislodge loose debris. Use compressed air to blow out dust from between keys, or a keyboard vacuum for a more thorough clean.

For a deeper clean, carefully remove keys with a keycap puller. Soak keycaps in soapy water, scrub, rinse and dry completely before reattaching.

Wipe the keyboard's surface with a soft cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. It evaporates quickly, preventing moisture damage and killing pathogens.

Prevent accumulation of dirt by washing hands before use, avoiding eating over the keyboard, and using keyboard covers. Clean your keyboard bi-weekly.

For a keyboard that needs more than a basic clean, consider professional ultrasonic cleaning. It can remove all traces of dirt and oils without disassembly.