Crumbs, dust, and finger oils collect fast on a keyboard and can make keys stick. A quick surface clean takes minutes, and a deeper clean between the keys leaves it looking and feeling like new.
What you'll need
- Compressed air or a soft brush
- Microfiber cloth
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Cotton swabs
Step by step
- Power down and disconnectTurn off the computer or unplug the keyboard, and remove batteries from a wireless one. This avoids typing random keys or short-circuiting anything while it is damp.
- Shake out the loose debrisTurn the keyboard upside down and gently tap the back to dislodge crumbs. Give it a few firm but careful shakes over a trash can or sink.
- Blow out between the keysUse short bursts of compressed air, or a soft brush, to push dust out of the gaps. Work across each row so debris moves out rather than deeper in.
- Wipe the key topsLightly dampen a microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol and wipe the surface of the keys. The cloth should be barely damp, never dripping.
- Detail the edgesDip a cotton swab in a little alcohol and run it around the sides of the keys and any sticky spots. Swap swabs as they pick up grime.
- Let it dry and reconnectGive the keyboard a few minutes to air-dry fully, then plug it back in or replace the batteries and test the keys.
Handy tips
- Wipe your keyboard weekly with a dry microfiber cloth to slow buildup.
- Avoid eating over the keyboard to keep crumbs out in the first place.
- On many mechanical keyboards you can pop off the keycaps for a deeper clean, but photograph the layout first so you can put them back correctly.
Heads up
- Never spray liquid directly onto the keyboard, since it can seep under the keys and damage the electronics.
- Use isopropyl alcohol rather than water, as alcohol evaporates quickly and is less likely to cause corrosion.
FAQ
Can I use water to clean my keyboard?
Only a barely-damp cloth, and never a wet one. Isopropyl alcohol is safer because it evaporates fast and does not leave moisture that can damage circuits.
How do I clean under the keys?
Compressed air and cotton swabs reach most grime. On mechanical keyboards you can remove the keycaps with a puller, but note the layout before you start.
What should I do if I spill liquid on my keyboard?
Unplug it right away, turn it upside down to drain, and let it dry fully for a day or two before testing. Sugary or sticky spills may still need a deeper clean.