How to Clean a Computer Keyboard

Level of difficulty: Easy

A computer keyboard plays a very important role in the usage of computer. Thus, if it becomes defective or if it malfunctions, the user may find it hard to use the computer. Keyboards can become dirty if it is used very often, especially if the user usually eats, drinks, or smokes near or while using the computer. If a keyboard becomes dirty, its performance may be affected. Common problems include stuck or dead keys, having particular characters repeated while typing. If dust is stuck underneath the keys, they might not work properly and eventually damage the keyboard until it becomes defective. Here are the things to do in order to maintain and prolong the usage of your keyboard.

Materials Needed:
- Manufacturer’s manual
- dry clean cloth
- compressed air (in an aerosol can)
- alcohol
- paintbrush
- cotton swab
- dust mask (optional)
Step 1
Shut down the computer and unplug the power cord from its power source before cleaning the keyboard. Disconnecting or removing the keyboard while the computer is still running may damage the machine or the keyboard especially if it is a PS2-based keyboard.
Step 2
Unplug the keyboard. Follow the keyboard’s cable. Search for the PS2 port or USB port where the keyboard is connected. It is normally found at the back of the computer. Disconnect the computer keyboard’s cable.
Step 3
Check the manual if there is an instruction provided by the manufacturer on how to specifically clean the keyboard (follow instructions if given).
Step 4
Turn your keyboard upside down. Use the compressed air from the canister to clean the dust between the keys. It may be necessary to shake the keyboard in order to loosen the remaining dust. It is advisable to wear a dust mask before you start cleaning the keyboard, especially if you have allergies.
Step 5
Swipe the keys and the chassis of the keyboard. Do this with the clean, dry cloth. Put a small amount of alcohol on the cloth and apply to the surface of the keyboard. Clean the key’s sides with the use of cotton swabs dipped in alcohol.
Step 6
For thorough cleaning of the keyboard, remove the keys from the keyboard with the help of a screwdriver. Use a paintbrush or other cleaning tools, dampened with alcohol, or other liquid cleaning agent to remove the dirt from the keys. Wait until the keys and the keyboard are completely dry and reattach the keys.
Step 7
Attach and test the computer keyboard. Attach the keyboard by plugging it into the computer’s designated keyboard port. Turn on the computer and test if the keyboard functions properly.


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