---
title: "How to clean a computer keyboard?"  
description: "How to clean a computer keyboard?"  
author: "Baishakhi Ghosh"  
published: 2023-10-06  
updated: 2023-10-11  
canonical: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/102315/how-to-clean-a-computer-keyboard  
category: "hardware"  
tags: ["hard disk drives"]  
reading_time: 2 minutes  

---

# How to clean a computer keyboard?



## Answers

### Answer by Saumya Mishra

To clean a [computer](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/102353/what-essential-parts-make-up-a-desktop-computer) keyboard, you will need:

- **A can of compressed air**
- **A cotton swab**
- **Isopropyl alcohol**

Instructions:

1. [Turn off your](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/115748/windows-update-stuck-at-preparing-windows-don-t-turn-off-your-computer) computer and unplug the [keyboard](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/102381/describe-the-features-of-a-wireless-keyboard).
2. Hold the keyboard upside down and shake it to [remove](https://yourviews.mindstick.com/view/81420/this-is-no-time-to-remove-obamacare-for-usa-under-covid-19-pandemic) any loose dirt or debris.
3. Use the can of compressed air to blow out any remaining dirt or debris from between the keys.
4. Dip the cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and wipe down the tops of the keys.
5. Pay special [attention](https://www.mindstick.com/blog/300987/ways-to-improve-your-mental-focus) to any areas that are particularly dirty or greasy.
6. Let the keyboard dry completely before plugging it back in and using it.

Here are some additional [tips](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/156918/7-tips-on-selecting-a-family-divorce-lawyer) for [cleaning](https://www.mindstick.com/blog/245944/helpful-information-on-how-to-locate-the-best-cleaning-services) a [computer keyboard](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/109535/how-to-disable-computer-keyboard-in-windows):

- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the keyboard.
- Be careful not to get any liquid inside the keyboard, as this can cause electrical damage.
- If you have a [mechanical keyboard](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/310698/the-best-mechanical-keyboard), you may need to remove the keycaps to clean underneath them.
- To remove the keycaps, use a keycap puller or a flathead screwdriver.
- Be careful not to damage the keycaps or the keyboard when removing them.
- Once the keycaps are removed, you can clean them with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
- Be sure to dry the keycaps completely before [putting them](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/36760/do-pets-know-when-you-are-putting-them-down) back on the keyboard.


---

Original Source: https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/102315/how-to-clean-a-computer-keyboard

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