A mechanical keyboard can last for years, but on one condition – you need to spend a few minutes on maintenance every now and then. Dust, crumbs and greasy residue from your fingers do more than spoil its appearance: they can also affect how the keys feel and interfere with their operation.
Fortunately, in most cases you do not need specialist tools or much experience. All it takes is around fifteen minutes and a few simple accessories to get your keyboard clean and comfortable to use again.
In this article, you will learn:
- How often should you clean a mechanical keyboard?
- How do you clean a mechanical keyboard day to day?
- How do you deep-clean your keyboard and keycaps?
- What mistakes should you avoid when cleaning a keyboard?
- What should you remember about regular keyboard care?
How often should you clean a mechanical keyboard?
Not every cleaning session has to involve removing the keycaps. For everyday care, simply wipe the keyboard with a microfiber cloth and remove dust from between the keys with a soft brush or compressed air. A deeper clean is worth doing every few months, or whenever the keys start to feel less smooth or you can see dirt building up between them.
If you eat at your computer or have pets at home, that point will probably come sooner.
How to clean a mechanical keyboard day to day?
Before you start, disconnect the keyboard from your computer or switch it off if it is wireless.
Next, turn it upside down and gently tap the underside to dislodge crumbs. Sweep away the remaining dust with a soft brush or blow it out with compressed air. Finally, wipe the keycaps with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
For more stubborn dirt, you can use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol, but avoid harsh detergents, glass cleaners and antibacterial gels. They can leave residue or damage the surface of the keys.
Deep-cleaning your keyboard and keycaps
When routine cleaning is no longer enough, it is time to remove the keycaps and clean the keyboard more thoroughly. The safest way to do this is with a keycap puller – a tool included with ENDORFY keyboards, among others. Once you have removed the keycaps, you can wash them in warm water with a little dish soap, rinse them thoroughly and leave them to dry completely. Only then should you put them back – even a small amount of moisture can get into the switches.
In the meantime, clean dust and dirt from the housing with a brush and compressed air. If you use isopropyl alcohol, apply it to individual spots and keep it from flooding the switches.
Common mistakes when cleaning a keyboard
Most damage is caused by using the wrong methods rather than by cleaning itself. Never wash the entire keyboard under running water, and do not use acetone, gasoline or other strong solvents. Also avoid sharp tools that could damage the keycaps or switches.
Take care with compressed air, too – hold the can upright and use short bursts. This will prevent liquid propellant from escaping.
Summary
Regularly cleaning your mechanical keyboard takes just a few minutes and helps preserve its appearance and comfort for a long time. For everyday care, a microfiber cloth, a brush and a little compressed air are enough. A deeper clean involving keycap removal is best left until it is really needed – usually once every few months. This will help your keyboard look better and keep its keys feeling smooth and pleasant to use for longer.
