To clean keycaps according to the wikiHow method provided, you should first take them off the keyboard and then wash them using a gentle dish soap and warm water or soak them in a solution of warm water and denture cleaning tablets.
Cleaning your keycaps is a crucial step in maintaining a clean and functional keyboard. Over time, keycaps can accumulate dirt, grime, and oils, affecting both appearance and feel. The wikiHow method described offers a couple of effective ways to restore your keycaps to their original state.
Steps to Clean Keycaps
The process begins by carefully removing all the keycaps from your keyboard. It's often helpful to take a picture beforehand to remember where each keycap belongs, especially if your keyboard layout is unique or you're not familiar with standard layouts. Once the keycaps are removed, you can proceed with cleaning using one of the methods described.
Cleaning Methods
Based on the provided reference, here are two ways to clean your keycaps:
Method 1: Using Soap and Water
This is a straightforward method suitable for general cleaning.
- Gather Supplies: You will need a basin or sink, warm water, gentle dish soap, and a paper towel.
- Prepare the Keycaps: Place the removed keycaps in the basin.
- Wash: Wash them using a gentle dish soap and warm water on a paper towel. You can rub individual keycaps gently on the paper towel with soapy water.
- Clean Residue: Be sure to remove any sticky residue or dirt from each key as you wash them. Pay close attention to the sides and tops.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the keycaps with clean warm water to remove all soap residue.
- Dry: Lay the keycaps out to air dry completely before putting them back on your keyboard.
Method 2: Using Denture Cleaning Tablets
This method is particularly effective for deep cleaning and removing stubborn stains or residue.
- Gather Supplies: You will need a bowl, warm water, and denture cleaning tablets.
- Prepare the Solution: Fill the bowl with warm water and add the denture cleaning tablets according to the product instructions (usually one or two tablets). Allow them to dissolve.
- Submerge Keycaps: You can also submerge the keycaps in a bowl containing a solution of warm water and denture cleaning tablets.
- Soak: Let the keycaps soak for the recommended time specified by the denture tablet packaging. The tablets release effervescence which helps lift dirt and grime.
- Clean Residue: Even after soaking, it's a good idea to inspect each keycap and ensure any stubborn sticky residue or dirt is removed. A soft brush can be helpful here.
- Rinse: Rinse the keycaps thoroughly with clean warm water.
- Dry: Allow the keycaps to dry completely before reattaching them to your keyboard.
Choosing the right method depends on how dirty your keycaps are. For a quick refresh, soap and water might suffice. For deeper cleaning or to remove yellowing, the denture tablet method can be very effective. Always ensure the keycaps are completely dry before putting them back on to avoid damaging your keyboard switches.
