Maintaining a clean keyboard not only ensures an optimal typing experience but also extends the lifespan of your keyboard. Keycaps of mechanical keyboards are one area that often gets overlooked during cleaning. Yet, they are the part that is in constant contact with your fingers, accumulating oils, dust, and grime over time. Therefore, learning how to clean your mechanical keyboard’s keycaps is essential.
#Why Clean Keyboard Keycaps
There are numerous reasons why you should make a habit of cleaning your keycaps. A clean keyboard enhances typing accuracy and speed. The grime that builds up between keycaps can make some keys stick, affecting your typing. Moreover, a clean keyboard is less likely to harbor disease-causing germs and bacteria, contributing to improved health. Finally, a well-maintained keyboard is more durable, giving you better value for your money.
#What you need to clean your mechanical keyboard keycaps
To clean your keyboard’s keycaps, you will need a keycap puller, warm water, dishwashing liquid, a soft cloth, a small brush, a bowl, and a towel.
1. Keycap puller: A keycap puller is a vital tool for removing keycaps without risking damage. These tools come in different styles, including wire pullers and plastic-ring pullers.
2. Warm water: Warm water serves as the primary cleaning agent in this process.
3. Dishwashing liquid: An additive to the warm water, the dish soap helps break up oils and grime on the keycaps.
4. A soft cloth: This is for wiping down the cleaned keycaps, removing excess water before air drying.
5. Small brush: This comes in handy for removing dust and grime from the keycaps.
6. Bowl: A large bowl is necessary for soaking the keycaps.
7. Towel: A towel is useful for laying the keycaps on to dry.
#The Process
Before we dive deep into the process, it’s worth noting that one should always refer to the keyboard manufacturer’s instructions or the user’s manual for specific guidance on cleaning the keyboard keycaps. If your manufacturer discards certain methods, be sure to follow their advice.
##Removing the Keycaps
Switch off your computer and disconnect the keyboard before starting. This prevents any accidental keystrokes and any potential damages due to water entering the electronics. Use the keycap puller to carefully remove each keycap from the keyboard. Be cautious when removing larger keys, like the space bar or the shift keys, as they often have metal stabilizer bars beneath them.
##Cleaning the Keycaps
Next, dilute some dish soap in warm water in the bowl. Submerge the keycaps in the soapy water and let them soak for a few hours. After soaking, use the small brush to scrub off any lingering grime. Rinse them under clean water to remove any soap residue.
##Drying and Reattaching the Keycaps
Once you’ve rinsed the keycaps, pat them dry using a soft cloth and then lay them out on a towel to air dry. Ensure the keycaps are completely dry before reattaching them to avoid any potential for damages from moisture. Start reattaching the keycaps from one end of the keyboard to the other or use a keyboard layout guide if you are unsure of their placement.
#Maintaining Cleanliness
Cleaning your keyboard keycaps shouldn’t be a one-time event. To maintain a clean keyboard, implement regular cleaning, perhaps once every couple of months depending on your usage. It can also be beneficial to develop a routine of washing your hands before using your keyboard. Doing this can significantly reduce the amount of oil and grime that accumulates on your keyboard.
A clean keyboard is a happy one, and cleaning your keyboard’s keycaps is an essential part of that happiness. It can seem like a daunting task at first, but with time, it becomes a simple addition to your regular cleaning routine. So, roll up your sleeves and make your mechanical keyboard happier with clean, shining keycaps.
