Computers > MaintenanceJuly 05, 2011
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Cleaning a Laptop Keyboard

Cleaning a Laptop Keyboard, Photo of a laptop keyboard.Laptop computer keyboards can get dirty, especially if you eat while you use your computer. Dirt and grime build up can result in stubborn or "dead" keys. Keyboard replacement can be expensive. This is a guide about cleaning a laptop keyboard.

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Cleaning Laptops and Tower Computers

The best way to clean your laptop or tower keyboard is to turn it over and shake the dust out of it then run the vacuum brush over it. If you have sticky keyboards, you can simply clean them with a damp cloth and small toothbrush. I recommend a dry toothbrush, so you don't get underneath the keys wet.

Have a policy of not eating when you are near your computer. This prevents a lot of costly mishaps. If you spill something on it, get it up immediately. If it is a large amount of liquid, try drying it with a hair dryer. Keyboards have a protective layer underneath but that doesn't mean it will keep your electronics working.

To clean your screen, simply use a damp cloth. Dry immediately. Take the time to vacuum the back of your tower as well. It gets dirt in it and can stop your fan from cooling which leads to greater problems. Hope this helps someone along the way.

Source: My husband works on computers.

By Gem from VA

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How to Clean a Sticking Keyboard

To clean a sticking keyboard, grab a bunch of Q-tips and a bottle of isopropyl alcohol. Gently pop off one sticky key at a time. Clean underneath and press back on. Now clean the exterior of the keys (also kills any germs). I use a cotton ball for the larger areas. Spray canned air in between keys. Don't forget to spray the vents on the side and/or underneath if you have a laptop. This is vital in keeping the temperature cool.

By Linda from MI

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Cleaning Keyboards

I clean my keyboard using the alcohol wipes that are used to clean an area before sticking a needle in you. I have so many of them, the supply company keeps sending me a whole box, and I only use two or three each time I need them. I started to use them to clean the outside of the keys and between the F keys and the numbers and other breaks like that on keyboard.

The other thing I do often is use the canned air under the buttons after I vacuum all loose grit up. Usually you will get all the hair out that way. If you have a key that is sticking pop the key off and use a cotton swab with alcohol to clean the area then replace the button, should work good as new now!

By jancat from New England

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Cleaning Laptop Keyboard

I use an old blush brush that has been washed and dried to swish away dust and things off my laptop

By Holly from Lancaster, WI

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Cover Keyboard With Plastic Wrap

Having JUST replaced our keyboard (thanks to a kitten and milk disaster), I put a sheet of the self-sealing saran wrap over the keyboard. It stretches enough to allow the keys to be pressed, and does a marvelous job at keeping the crud out of the keyboard!

By Eileen from Elk Grove, CA

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Cleaning a Laptop Keyboard

Even cigarette ashes are bad for the keyboard, also cat hair, dander, and dust. I used to turn the keyboard upside down and gently tap it on the garbage can. A lot of stuff fell out. Now I turn my laptop upside down (while open) and run a brush back and forth over the keyboard. I got the brush from my dad, it's made for computers. If I didn't have this, I would use the paint brush that I keep just for dusting small crevices.

By Judith from Central IL

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Cleaning PC Keyboard

Unplug and put in dishwasher!

By julrobs from North Augusta, SC

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