How To Clean Your Keyboard

For most people, your keyboard is pretty much an extension of your hands. We spend a sizeable amount of time working on it and inevitably it is bound to get dirty or sticky. There is little that is more unpleasant than working on a filthy keyboard and you should not have to. Here are some tips that will enable you to keep your keyboard spic-and-span.

• First shut down your PC. If your computer is on, you should not disconnect the keyboard as it could damage the machine (unless your keyboard is USB based).

• Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it to remove some of the foreign matter and ensure that it is done in a spot that will not be problematic when it is time to clean up the fallen debris. Change the angles of how you hold the keyboard to maximise the amount of debris that is removed.

• The keys can be cleaned by using a can of compressed air. Aim it at the openings or cracks and it will blow out the dust and other particles. However, as cans of compressed air have harmful chemicals, ensure that you use it in a well ventilated area.

• Alternatively you can remove the keys, and lightly swab the relevant surfaces with a moist (but not wet) cloth, preferably doused in rubbing alcohol or cleaning solution. The keys should be pryed loose with a flat screwdriver or even a knife. Before you remove the keys, take a picture of your keyboard so you are able to put it back soundly.

• Dust is prevalent in most offices and can be wiped off with a smaller brush with bristles or a small paintbrush.

• Or you can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush/hose attachment cleaner to remove those annoying dust particles.

• If there is an accidental spillage – immediately switch off the PC;turn the keyboard upside down and then unscrew its cover. Dry it to the best of your ability with a cloth while it is upside down. Then use a large air-tight container that contains (uncooked rice). Place the keyboard upside down in the container and the rice should absorb the moisture. Leave it overnight in the container.