The best ways to clean and maintain your mechanical keyboard

Introduction

Your mechanical keyboard is an essential part of your setup, whether you're a gamer, developer, or typing enthusiast. Over time, dust, crumbs, and dirt can accumulate under the keys, affecting the performance and aesthetics of your keyboard. Proper maintenance can extend its lifespan and improve your typing comfort.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain the best methods for cleaning and maintaining your mechanical keyboard , from simple dusting to deep cleaning. We'll also give you tips for protecting your custom keycaps , available on KCOD - Keycaps On Demand . 🚀

Why clean your mechanical keyboard regularly?

🦠 Hygiene : A keyboard accumulates bacteria and microbes , especially if you eat at your desk. 💨 Performance : Dust and debris can impair the functioning of switches . 🎨 Aesthetics : A clean keyboard keeps its premium look , especially with custom keycaps. 💻 Durability : Maintenance extends the life of your keyboard and its components .

Equipment needed to clean your keyboard

Before you begin, here is a list of recommended tools:

🔹 Handheld vacuum or air blower – To remove dust between the keys. 🔹 Compressed air can – Alternative for effective dust removal. 🔹 Anti-static brush – Ideal for hard-to-reach corners. 🔹 Microfiber cloth – To wipe the surface without scratching. 🔹 Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) – Cleans deeply without damaging. 🔹 Cotton swabs – Perfect for corners and switches. 🔹 Keycap puller – To safely remove keycaps. 🔹 Soapy water – To wash keycaps (be careful with wooden or resin keycaps!).

Quick cleaning: regular maintenance of your mechanical keyboard

If you use your keyboard daily, here's a simple routine to follow every week:

1️⃣ Turn the keyboard over and gently tap to remove crumbs. 2️⃣ Use an air blower or can of air to blow away dust. 3️⃣ Wipe the keyboard surface with a microfiber cloth . 4️⃣ Use a fine brush to dislodge particles between the keys.

🕒 Time required : 5 to 10 minutes. 🔹 Recommended frequency : 1 time per week.

Deep cleaning: disassembling and washing the keycaps

If your keyboard is dirty or the keys are sticky, further cleaning is necessary.

🛠 Step 1: Remove the keycaps

1️⃣ Turn off and unplug your keyboard to avoid any electrical issues. 2️⃣ Use a keycap puller to gently remove each key. 3️⃣ Store your keycaps in a container to avoid losing them.

🧼 Step 2: Clean the keycaps

1️⃣ Fill a bowl with warm soapy water (mild soap or dish soap). 2️⃣ Soak your keycaps for 30 to 60 minutes . 3️⃣ Scrub gently with a soft toothbrush . 4️⃣ Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly .

💡 KCOD Tip : To preserve your 3D printed keycaps, avoid harsh products and dry them thoroughly before reassembling.

🔍 Step 3: Clean the keyboard

1️⃣ Blow out the dust with compressed air or a vacuum cleaner . 2️⃣ Use a cotton swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean around the switches. 3️⃣ Wipe the keyboard chassis with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.

🔄 Step 4: Reassemble the keycaps

1️⃣ Make sure the keycaps are dry . 2️⃣ Carefully replace them on the switches . 3️⃣ Test each key to verify proper operation.

🕒 Time required : 30 to 60 minutes. 🔹 Recommended frequency : Every 2 to 3 months.

Precautions and mistakes to avoid

❌ Never soak your keyboard in water : Risk of damaging the circuits. ❌ Avoid abrasive products : They can dull the keycaps. ❌ Do not force the switches : This can break the fasteners. ❌ Do not replace wet keycaps : Risk of mold and corrosion.

✅ Bonus Tip : Use a dust cover or hood to prevent dust buildup.

Maintaining 3D Printed Keycaps

If you are using custom keycaps like the ones from our KCOD store , here are some recommendations:

• Clean them with a soft cloth rather than an abrasive sponge.

• Avoid harsh solvents (acetone, strong alcohol).

• Store them away from sunlight to avoid discoloration.

• Check compatibility with your switches before repositioning them.

🔥 Check out our 3D printed keycaps on KCOD to give your keyboard a unique look!

Conclusion

A well-maintained keyboard provides an optimal typing experience , extends the life of your switches and keycaps , and maintains a clean and aesthetic appearance . By following these regular and thorough cleaning tips, you will prevent dirt buildup and preserve the performance of your mechanical keyboard.

👉 Want to personalize your keyboard with unique keycaps? Check out our exclusive collection on KCOD - Keycaps On Demand and give your setup some style! 🚀

🔹 How often do you clean your keyboard? Share your tips in the comments!