How To Clean Mechanical Keyboard? (Simple 3 Steps Guide)

Mechanical keyboards are almost universally used by serious players. Maintaining the quality and functionality of a mechanical keyboard requires cleaning it lightly, regularly, and thoroughly.

The purpose of this article is to explain how to properly clean a mechanical keyboard.

Cleaning a keyboard routinely decreases the accumulation of filth, grease, and dust, increasing its durability. It can be a bit overwhelming if you haven’t done it before, but the cleaning procedure is pretty straightforward.

It is important to follow all cleaning/maintenance procedures step-by-step in order to preserve the aesthetic appeal of your mechanical keyboard. 

Note: Whenever you are preparing to do any kind of cleaning, it is recommended that you detach the keyboard to prevent accidental key presses, placing the cable, etc. 

The best way to clean a mechanical keyboard (explained)

1. Performing a basic cleaning

Cleaning keyboards simply involves removing any dust, food particles, hair, or other debris that collects on the surface and underneath the keycaps.

If you flip over your keyboard and shake it gently, the loose particles will also come off the surface. Use an air blower to remove any particles that may have settled.

Using a cleaning brush, you can remove debris stuck in hard-to-reach areas or behind keycaps.

Remove sweat scuffs, and stains from the keyboard using a clean, moist cloth, especially if they have landed on the keys or wrist rest.

Cleaning your keyboard is the best way to fix keyboard issues like 301 keyboard errors and keyboard keeps spamming keys.

2. Preventative cleaning

Using an ultrasonic cleaner, you can clean the dirt from the keycaps after following the simple cleaning procedure.

Drop two denture tablets and half of your keycaps into the cleaner, and let them run for six to ten minutes.

Ensure that each keycap is in contact with the ultrasonic sensors by stirring at intervals of two minutes, and follow any additional instructions that your machine may have.

3. Spills: How to handle them

how to clean spilled gaming keyboard

Shake your keyboard gently over a sink if there is any excess liquid that hasn’t drained out.

Make sure to thoroughly air dry the keys after they soak for about 5-6 hours in warm water with denture cleaning tablets or soapy water. Don’t keep the keys away for more than 2 days.

If any default settings are present on the computer, check them after drying the keyboard and caps with a microfiber towel.

If your keyboard does not work properly after cleaning, you can use a keyboard tester.

Final Words:

After completing these steps, you should be able to use the keyboard again. Just re-plug your keyboard or switch it on if it’s wireless.

For more comprehensive cleaning recommendations, visit the official website of the manufacturer of your keyboard before washing if you have any questions.

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

When should I clean my mechanical keyboard?

Maintaining the keyboard at least once a week or even more often is necessary in order to ensure it works properly.

Are mechanical keyboards easy to clean?

Due to the fact that the mechanical keycaps are removable, cleaning the keyboard is quite an easy process.

Is it safe to vacuum the keyboard?

You can vacuum the dust/dirt particles off your keyboard or suck them out with a vacuum cleaner.

Does dust affect mechanical keyboards?

The problem with dust and filth is that they will take control of a keyboard long before the switches or circuitry of it begins to malfunction.
There are a number of measures that may be taken to control contaminants, including cleaning, which is an essential part of keyboard maintenance.

Are alcohol wipes safe for keyboards?

The answer is yes, you can clean your keyboard with rubbing alcohol.