How to Fix a Sticky Dell Laptop Keyboard

By Melissa Rae

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Sticky keyboards are a common problem affecting laptop users. Whether you spilled a sugary drink on the keyboard or typed with dirty hands, it's important to clean it up right away. Food or drink residue can aid in germ growth, make it harder to type, or even ruin your keyboard permanently. Fix your Dell laptop's sticky keyboard with isopropyl alcohol. This quick-drying solvent will dissolve any sticky mess without harming the keyboard.

Step 1

Turn off the Dell laptop before cleaning.

Step 2

Vacuum the keyboard with a brush attachment or portable. Apply light pressure to the keyboard with the vacuum.

Step 3

Dampen a cloth with isopropyl alcohol, and wipe the tops of the keys.

Step 4

Dip cotton swabs in isopropyl alcohol, and clean the spaces between the keys. Allow the keyboard to dry completely.

Step 5

Turn on the laptop and test the keyboard for stickiness. If it still doesn't work properly, remove the keyboard, according to the owner's manual at Dell's support website, Support.dell.com.

Step 6

Wash the Dell keyboard in a dishwasher, or replace it with a new one. If you wash the keyboard in a dishwasher, allow it to dry for at least a day before reinstalling.

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