How to Clean and Sanitize a Computer Keyboard
To keep a keyboard functioning properly, it must be cleaned and sanitized regularly. This is especially true if several people share the same keyboard. Over time, spills, food crumbs, dust and foreign objects can lodge themselves in the cracks of a keyboard. This can result in sticky or blocked keys, and foster germs and bacteria. With just a few household items, you can improve the cleanliness and effectiveness of your keyboard.
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Instructions
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Unplug the keyboard from your computer. Hold the keyboard upside down and shake the loose particles into a trash can. Refrain from hitting the back of your keyboard to remove crumbs and dirt, as this may damage your keyboard. For laptop computers, do not shake the machine. Turn it upside down and allow debris to fall out gently.
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Spray the keyboard with a can of compressed air to remove the remaining particles between the keys. Shake the can vigorously, hold it about six inches away from your keyboard and spray it into the cracks with quick bursts. Spray at an angle that directs the debris out of your keyboard. The air will blow out larger pieces of dust and crumbs without damaging your keyboard.
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Lightly soak a cotton swab with a 90 percent isopropyl alcohol solution. Gently rub the swab along the tops of the keys to remove finger oils and sanitize the the keys. Switch the swab once it becomes soiled.
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Plug your keyboard into your computer. Test the keys to ensure that each one functions properly. If pressing a key does not register a character on your screen, the key cap may be dislodged. Apply firm pressure on the key cap to snap it back into place.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not substitute isopropyl alcohol with ethanol-based rubbing alcohol.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
