How to Fix a Sticky Laptop Keyboard

Clean sticky keys with ispropyl alcohol for quick evaporation.

A sticky laptop keyboard can slow your typing and reduce your keyboard's efficiency. Spills from eating and drinking can fall or drip between the keys and concentrate into a sticky mess. Save time and work by cleaning the keyboard thoroughly. There's no need to disassemble the laptop and void the warranty or purchase a new keyboard, unless there was a major spill or malfunction. Prevent sticky keys by washing your hands before use and don't eat or drink while working on the computer.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum, with brush or nozzle attachment
• Cotton swabs
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Turn off and unplug the laptop.

2. Hold the laptop upside down and shake it over a trash can to remove loose crumbs and debris.

3. Vacuum the keyboard with a brush or nozzle attachment. Press gently and concentrate on cleaning between the keys.

4. Dip a cotton swab into the isopropyl alcohol and clean between the keys. Use fresh cotton swabs when necessary, and work them over the sticky areas. Wipe the tops of the keys with new swabs. Use a cloth dampened with alcohol to clean the rest of the keyboard.

5. Air dry the keyboard for five minutes before using it.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your laptop frequently to prevent sticky keys.

References

• Canadian Mind Products: Keyboard Cleaning
• PC World: Step-by-Step: Keep a Clean Keyboard