How to Clean the Keyboard Properly
Keeping your keyboard clean is essential to ensure it stays performing well and takes care of your health. Here are simple steps to clean the keyboard thoroughly:
Step 1: Clean the Dust
Flip the Keyboard
Lift the keyboard and turn it down. Tap gently to let the dust and debris trapped between the buttons escape.
Use a Small Vacuum Cleaner
To clean deeper dirt, use a vacuum cleaner with a small nozzle. Select a low-power setting so as not to damage the buttons.
Alternatives to Cleaning Tools
If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, you can use a small brush or a can of compressed air to remove dust in hard-to-reach places.
Step 2: Removing Stubborn Dirt
Remove the Buttons with a Small Screwdriver
Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully remove the keyboard keys one at a time. Make sure you take a picture of the button layout before you start cleaning to make it easy to reinstall it.
Clean with Isopropyl Alcohol
Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and use it to clean up any remaining dirt under the button. This alcohol is effective in removing oil and dirt and evaporates quickly without leaving a mark.
Reinstall Button
When you are done cleaning, carefully reinstall the button in its original position.
When to Replace the Keyboard
While many problems with the keyboard can be fixed, there are times when the damage is too severe and needs to be replaced. Here’s how to recognize when the right time is and choose a good substitute:
Signs of Damage That Can’t Be Repaired Yourself
1. Button Not Working
If some important buttons are not responding even though they have been cleaned or repaired, there may be a malfunction in the circuitry inside.
2. Serious Physical Cracks or Damage
Cracks in the keyboard, broken keys, or liquid damage that cannot be completely cleaned can be reasons to replace the device.
3. Connection or Reset Issues
If the keyboard isn’t detected even after replacing the cable, battery, or resetting, it indicates that the problem is with the device itself, not the computer.
4. Highly Visible Signs of Wear
Keyboards that are used frequently for a long time usually show signs of wear such as faded letters, loose keys, or decreased sensitivity.