Mechanical keyboards are popular for their durability, tactile feedback, and customizable options. However, they also tend to accumulate dust, dirt, crumbs and other grime over time, affecting both aesthetics and performance.
Regular cleaning can extend the life of your keyboard and improve your typing experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods to clean your mechanical keyboard thoroughly.
Why Cleaning Your Mechanical Keyboard Is Important
Cleaning your mechanical keyboard isn’t just about maintaining its appearance; it’s also about functionality. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Improved Performance: Dirt buildup can hinder key actuation, causing sticky or unresponsive keys.
- Hygiene: Keyboards can harbor bacteria, germs, and allergens. Cleaning keeps it sanitary.
- Prolonged Lifespan: Regular maintenance can help prevent mechanical issues, extending the life of your keyboard.
Tools You’ll Need to Clean a Mechanical Keyboard
Before you begin cleaning your mechanical keyboard, gather the following supplies:
- A keycap puller or a flat tool (like a butter knife or credit card)
- A soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush
- Compressed air canister
- Microfiber cloth
- Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70%, disinfecting agent)
- Cotton swabs or soft lint-free cloth
- A small vacuum cleaner (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean a Mechanical Keyboard
1. Unplug and Prepare Your Keyboard
Before you start cleaning, make sure to unplug your keyboard. This step is crucial to prevent electrical damage and accidental key presses. If your keyboard is wireless, turn it off and remove the batteries if necessary.
2. Remove the Keycaps
Removing the keycaps allows you to access the hidden dirt and grime underneath. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a keycap puller to gently pop off the keycaps. Insert the puller under the keycap and pull upward. If you don’t have a keycap puller, a flat tool like a butter knife can work, but be cautious to avoid scratching the keys.
- Place the removed keycaps in a bowl or container for cleaning later.
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your keyboard before removing the keycaps. This will help you remember the layout when it’s time to reassemble.
3. Clean the Keycaps
Once the keycaps are removed, follow these steps:
- Fill a bowl with warm water and add a small amount of dish soap.
- Soak the keycaps for 5-10 minutes to loosen the grime.
- Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away any stubborn dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let them air dry completely before reattaching them.
4. Clean the Keyboard Base
With the keycaps off, you can focus on the base of your keyboard, where most of the debris gathers.
- Dust and Debris Removal: Use a compressed air canister to blow out dust and small debris from between the switches. Alternatively, a small vacuum cleaner can help suck up loose dirt.
- Wipe Down the Surface: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a little isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) and wipe down the surface of the keyboard to disinfect and remove fingerprints, dirt, grime and dust. Isopropyl alcohol is a disinfecting agent that kills viruses, bacteria and fungi.
- Clean Between Switches: For hard-to-reach areas, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean around the switches and between narrow spaces.
Warning: Avoid getting any liquid into the switches or electronic components as this can damage your keyboard.
5. Reassemble Your Keyboard
Once the keycaps are fully dry, it’s time to reattach them:
- Align each keycap with its corresponding switch.
- Press down firmly until you hear a click, ensuring it’s securely attached.
Use your reference photo from earlier to make sure all keys are placed correctly.
6. Perform a Final Touch-Up
Once your keyboard is reassembled, give it one last clean:
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe off any remaining dust or fingerprints.
- If needed, another blast of compressed air can ensure no dust particles are left behind.
7. Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Keyboard Clean Longer
After putting in the effort to clean your mechanical keyboard, there are some easy steps you can take to keep it cleaner for longer:
- Use a Dust Cover: When not in use, cover your keyboard to prevent dust from settling.
- Wash Your Hands: Keeping your hands clean before typing can reduce the transfer of oils and dirt to your keyboard.
- Regular Cleaning: Try to wipe down the surface and use compressed air (gas duster) weekly to minimize dirt buildup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes people make when cleaning their mechanical keyboards and how to avoid them:
- Using Harsh Cleaners: Stick to isopropyl alcohol or mild soap and water to disinfect. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the plastic or printed letters.
- Soaking the Keyboard: Never submerge the keyboard in water or use excessive liquid. Electronics and water don’t mix!
- Forgetting to Dry Keycaps: Ensure keycaps are completely dry before reassembling. Any trapped moisture can cause issues.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mechanical Keyboard?
For optimal performance and hygiene, aim to clean your keyboard at least once every few months. If you eat/drink near your keyboard, spend excessive amounts of time typing or notice sticky keys, more frequent deep cleaning may be necessary.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning of your mechanical keyboard not only keeps it looking great but also ensures smooth, reliable performance. By following this guide, you’ll be able to deep clean your keyboard, extend its lifespan, and enjoy a more comfortable typing experience. Remember, prevention is key, so take small steps to maintain it regularly and avoid heavy buildup of dust, dirt and grime.
FAQs
1. Can I use a dishwasher to clean the keycaps?
While some people use dishwashers, it’s safer to hand-wash your keycaps to avoid potential damage or discoloration from heat.
2. How do I clean my keyboard if I can’t remove the keycaps?
If the keycaps are non-removable, use a small brush with compressed air to clean between the keys, and wipe down the surface with a microfiber cloth.
3. Is it safe to clean a mechanical keyboard with water?
You can use water to clean your mechanical keyboard, but it isn’t exactly safe and could damage electrical components or the switches. I only use water on the keycaps and in minimal amounts.
Generally you should never let water near the switches or electronic components of the keyboard. If you do, I recommend allowing the keyboard to dry for at least 24 hours before plugging it back in or powering it on (if your keyboard is wireless remember to remove the battery, which will likely require disassembly). Also note that some switches are prelubed, so using water could alter the switch sound and feel.
This guide ensures that your mechanical keyboard stays clean and functional, maintaining both its appearance and performance for the long term.