The Gorge - How to clean a computer keyboard

How to clean a computer keyboard

This is a very simple task but one for which I sought instruction before attempting. I couldn't find any clear directions so here are my own for future reference. Please note I can't be held responsible for any damage, follow my directions at your own risk!

View fullsize Are your keys sticking or dirty like these?	View fullsize Use a small screwdriver head to lever off each key. Be careful to catch them as some will ping off!
View fullsize Clean each key as you remove it with a damp j-cloth.	View fullsize Although they look clean on the top, keys get filthy along the sides.
View fullsize When you have exposed each area, wrap a damp j-cloth around a small screwdriver head.	View fullsize Get the cloth into all the nooks and crannies to clean the wells around the keys.
View fullsize So this filthy section is cleaned up...	View fullsize ... to look like this.

View fullsize The space bar has a metal lever and spring underneath. When you lever it off, be gentle to prise the metal lever apart, and be sure to catch the spring!	View fullsize Other large keys also have the metal lever, but not a spring.
View fullsize As you collect the keys be sure to keep them in order or they will get confused like these! If you are unsure when replacing a key look at the contours as different rows have keys of slightly different heights.	View fullsize I prefer to keep my keys in order, like this. It means I know exactly where they go when I put them back!
View fullsize Most keys just snap back into place but with the metal levers there is a knack. Move the lever fully into place, so the key is pulled to one side...	View fullsize ... then carefully push the key to the opposite side...
View fullsize ... and snap into place with a small pressure from above, like with any key. It's easiest to replace these large keys before the rest.	View fullsize Voila! A clean, functional keyboard! You can also use this picture for reference when replacing the keys.

If you have a comment, please leave it in the guestbook. To contact Flash directly, complete this form. Like this site? Buy me a drink!

This site moved from a fixed width to the current layout in 2009. Some older content such as photo sets may still have a fixed width. However if you notice any pages which are actually broken, please be kind enough to let me know via this form.

© Flash Wilson 1999-2010. I charge a fee for use of my photos.