How do you clean your computer keyboard?

We teach you how to clean your computer keyboard so you leave it spotless and forget about that hard-to-remove dirt. At Consum, we teach you.

Computer keyboards are one of the most used and least looked after parts of our day-to-day life. From office workers to students, we all rely on these tools to express ourselves, study or work. However, we often forget the importance of keeping our keyboards clean and free from germs. We offer you a guide to cleaning your computer keyboard and keeping it in optimum condition.

Why should you clean your PC keyboard?

• Hygiene: keyboards can accumulate germs, dust and dirt over time, so it can be harmful to your health if they aren’t cleaned regularly.
• Durability: the build-up of dirt and dust can cause mechanical problems in the keyboard and shorten its use life. Cleaning it regularly will prolong its durability.
• Aesthetics: a clean keyboard looks more professional and pleasant. Nobody wants to type on a keyboard full of stains and crumbs.
• Performance: sticky or dirty keys can affect the precision of typing and overall performance of your work on the computer.

Utensils required

• Cotton buds
• Alcohol
• A soft and clean cloth
• A small brush with soft bristles or a makeup brush

How to clean your computer keyboard step by step

• Switch off the computer: before touching anything, switch off your computer or disconnect the keyboard if possible. This will prevent accidents and ensure your safety while cleaning.
• Remove the crumbs and dust: tilt the keyboard facing downwards and shake gently to remove the crumbs and dust trapped between the keys. You can use a small brush with soft bristles or a small makeup brush that you no longer use to help in this process.
• Clean between the keys: cotton buds are ideal for getting to the hard-to-reach areas. Wet it with alcohol and pass it between the keys to remove the dirt and most stubborn residue. Make sure you don’t wet the keys too much.
• Clean the keys: to clean the surface of the keys, use a slightly damp cloth with alcohol. Wipe each key using gentle and circular movements. This will remove stains and germs.
• Disinfect: for a deeper clean and to remove germs, you can wet another cotton bud with alcohol and pass it over the keys. Make sure you allow the keyboard to dry fully before switching your computer on again.
• Use of air: you can use a hair dryer or hand-held fan or, if you have access to a can of compressed air, you can use this to help you to remove the dust and hard-to-reach residues. In the case of compressed air, you should spray it carefully between the keys and cracks in the keyboard.
• Regular maintenance: the key to a clean and functional keyboard is maintenance. Clean your keyboard at least once a month or when needed. Avoid eating or drinking near the keyboard to prevent spills and crumbs.