How To Clean And Maintain Your Membrane Keyboard
The importance of keeping our work environment clean cannot be overstated. Right from our office or cubicle to our personal computer, it is important to maintain a hygienic environment to ensure smooth functioning and longevity of these essential tools. One of the most used tools in the office or home is the computer keyboard. It is the workhorse that helps us get our job done efficiently. But have you ever thought about cleaning your keyboard? We know it's easy to overlook or forget about it, but it is essential to keep the keyboard clean and hygienic. In this article, we will discuss how to clean the Microsoft Membrane Keyboard. First, let's check out the image of the keyboard we will be talking about:
What is a Microsoft Membrane Keyboard?
A membrane keyboard is a type of keyboard where the keys are attached to the keyboard base through a rubber or silicone membrane. The membrane acts as the switchboard for the keys on the keyboard. The Microsoft Membrane Keyboard is an affordable and reliable keyboard that is standard in many offices. However, despite being reliable and sturdy, it can trap dirt, debris, and even germs in the crevices between keys. That is why it's essential to keep it clean and hygienic.Why Clean Your Keyboard?
Cleaning your keyboard is crucial not just for hygiene, but also for longevity. When you eat or drink while working, small crumbs or grease can get through the crevices between the keys into the keyboard's internal mechanism. This can cause keys to become stuck, and sometimes make the whole keyboard unusable. Cleaning can also help with its performance. Dust and dirt can collect on the surface of the keys, resulting in the keys feeling stiff or not responding correctly when typing. Regular cleaning will help prevent these issues.Things You Need to Clean Your Keyboard
Cleaning a keyboard is not a difficult task, and you do not require any specialized equipment to do it. However, it is important to have certain things handy to help you clean it properly. Here is a list of things you will need:- Microfiber cloth
- Cotton swabs
- Isopropyl Alcohol (70%)
- Compressed air canister
- Vacuum Cleaner
How to Clean Your Microsoft Membrane Keyboard?
Now that we have a list of things we need let's get to the actual cleaning.Step 1: Turn off your computer.
Step 2: Unplug the keyboard from the computer.
Step 3: Shake the keyboard gently to remove any loose dirt and crumbs from between the keys.
Step 4: Use a compressed air canister to blow away any dirt and debris from between the keys.
Step 5: Vacuum the keyboard, holding it upside down to let any remaining crumbs or debris fall out and get sucked away by the vacuum.
Step 6: Dip a cotton swab in 70% isopropyl alcohol and use it to clean around the edges of each key, paying extra attention to the crevices between the keys.
Step 7: Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe the surface of the keys clean.
Step 8: Wait until the isopropyl alcohol has evaporated entirely before plugging the keyboard back in and turning the computer back on.
Tips for Cleaning Your Keyboard
Here are some tips to help you clean your keyboard more effectively:- Do not splash water on your keyboard or try to soak it in water to clean it. Only use isopropyl alcohol, vinegar, or a damp microfiber cloth to clean it.
- When using isopropyl alcohol, ensure you have the 70% variant. Using stronger concentrations can cause the plastic on your keyboard to break down and become discoloured.
- Do not clean your keyboard too frequently. Experts recommend cleaning it every six months unless you eat and drink while typing frequently.
- If you find it hard to remove stubborn dirt from between the keys, try using a toothbrush.
