Why do you need to clean the keyboard?

He emphasizes that keyboards are one of the dirtiest objects in homes and offices, with crumbs and germs often accumulating on them. Techno 24Studies show that 27% of office keyboards have levels of contamination high enough to pose a health risk.

Despite this, keyboards are often neglected when it comes to cleaning, allowing germs to proliferate. The home keyboard of your PC or laptop should also be cleaned properly, as it accumulates no less dirt than the office keyboard. However, before you start cleaning the keyboard, you should consider a few important points.

General precautions when cleaning the keyboard

1. Disconnect the keyboard from the network: To avoid unnecessary risks of electric shock and accidental typing, first disconnect the keyboard from the computer.
2. Turn keyboard upside down: Shake the keyboard over a trash can or sink to remove any of the largest debris that may have accumulated between the keys.

For thorough cleaning, it is recommended to use isopropyl alcohol (minimum 70% concentration). Dip a cotton swab in the solution and wipe around the keys. In case of heavy contamination, the keys may need to be removed. This method is effective but requires careful application.

How to clean a mechanical keyboard?

If you’re using a mechanical keyboard, you’ll need to use special pliers to remove the keys. We also recommend using your keyboard manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly maintain your keyboard.

Mechanical keyboards have complex switch mechanisms. Use a switch remover, cotton swabs, and isopropyl alcohol to clean them. Remove all switches, clean around the switches, and soak the switches in soapy water if necessary. Dry them thoroughly before reinstalling. If you spill any liquid, remove the keycaps and wipe them with alcohol to prevent them from sticking.

Sterilization of keyboard from bacteria and viruses

Although alcohol can kill germs, other methods can also be effective:

• Special antibacterial wipes are suitable for wiping the keyboard, as long as they do not contain bleach.
• Sterilization wands and ultraviolet light can also be used to kill bacteria and viruses, and their effectiveness has been proven by research.
• You should also use a can of compressed air to help clear the space between the keys of any small debris.

How to clean laptop keyboard

Laptops often have built-in keys, which can make them difficult to clean. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before removing the keys. Turn off and unplug the laptop, then use cleaning fluid for large particles, isopropyl alcohol for stains, and a can of compressed air.

How to clean a laptop keyboard: watch the video

How to clean your Mac keyboard?

Apple does not recommend using wet wipes or aerosol sprays. Instead, lightly dampen a lint-free cloth and wipe the keyboard. For stubborn dirt, use an isopropyl alcohol swab and do not let the swab get wet.

As you can see, keyboards accumulate dirt, but most of the time users neglect it and do not take care of the keyboard, and the dirt continues to accumulate, get on your hands and spread. Now you know why and how to keep your keyboard hygienic and functional.