Cleaning under your keyboard effectively involves a few straightforward steps to remove dust and debris. Here's a guide on how to do it:
Simple Cleaning Methods
The first step is to use gravity and air to dislodge the majority of the debris.
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Turn it upside down and gently shake it: According to the reference, this is the simplest way to start cleaning, applicable to both external and laptop keyboards. This allows loose particles to fall out.
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Use compressed air: After shaking, use compressed air to blow out dust and debris trapped between the keys. This method is very effective at removing stubborn particles.
Detailed Cleaning
For a more thorough cleaning, you can utilize the following techniques:
- Turn Off and Disconnect: Always turn off your computer and disconnect the keyboard before performing any cleaning methods. This helps prevent accidental key presses and avoids electrical issues.
- Remove Keycaps (Optional):
- For a very deep clean, you can carefully remove keycaps using a keycap puller. This will give you direct access to the dirt underneath.
- Take pictures before removing the keycaps to ensure you can easily replace them in the correct position.
- Clean the keycaps separately using a damp cloth or a mild soapy solution.
- Clean the Keyboard Surface:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) to clean the exposed keyboard surface.
- Avoid spraying liquids directly on the keyboard to prevent damage.
- Reassemble: After the keyboard and keycaps are dry, place the keys back onto the keyboard.
Summary of Cleaning Methods
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Shake | Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake to dislodge loose debris. |
| 2. Compressed Air | Use compressed air to blow out trapped dust and debris. |
| 3. Disconnect & Remove Keycaps | Power off and disconnect keyboard. Optionally, remove keycaps. |
| 4. Surface Cleaning | Use a damp cloth with isopropyl alcohol to clean exposed surfaces. |
| 5. Reassembly | Place the keys back onto the keyboard |
By using these methods, you can effectively clean under your keyboard and ensure it remains in optimal working condition.
