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How to Clean an iMac Keyboard

Contributor
By A. Drinkard
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
Clean an iMac Keyboard
Clean an iMac Keyboard
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In today's technology-driven world, chances are your computer is used on a daily basis. Food you eat while working on the computer and the natural oils from your fingers are bound to gunk up your keyboard. The most basic way to clean a dirty keyboard is to spray compressed air directly under the keys, but sometimes that is just not enough. Here are a few ideas for cleaning your grimy, sticky or greasy keyboard.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Cotton swabs or soft cloth
  • Paper towel
  • Butter knife
  • Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
  1. Step 1

    Shut down the computer. Test each key and note if any are sticky. These keys may require extra attention. Draw a diagram of the keys so replacing them will not be problematic.

  2. Step 2

    Pop off the keys with a butter knife. Each key will have two notched slots and a center actuator button. These can be cleaned very gently with a damp toothbrush or cotton swab. Use a cotton swab or a lightly dampened cloth to clean the remainder of the keyboard. You will not need anything stronger for water-soluble contaminants (i.e. soft drinks, coffee and sugary substances).

  3. Step 3

    Wipe the keyboard with a dry paper towel. Replace the keys according to the diagram you drew.

  4. Step 4

    Clean the topsides of keys using Mr. Clean Magic Erasers. Magic Erasers work best when damp; wet the sponge and squeeze out all excess water. Rub along the keys, pressing down gently. The sponge is slightly abrasive, so do not exert a lot of pressure. When all of the smudges have been removed, dry the keyboard with a paper towel. Make sure there is no water under the keys, as this can damage the keys or even the entire keyboard.

Tips & Warnings
  • Keep your keyboard as clean as possible. Cover it with a soft cloth or cover when not in use. Wash your hands before use to remove grime and natural oils. Do not eat or drink when using the keyboard. If anything spills on the keyboard, do not allow it to dry and get sticky.
  • Do not use acetone or alcohol-based cleaners on any keyboard. Never spray any cleaners directly on any computer surface.
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