by Muneeb Saeed

Created on: November 27, 2008   Last Updated: June 04, 2011

Keyboards! They are one of the main input devices for our computers. Our fingers are always running wild over them as we try to do as much work as possible in least time. They are our lifeline to our virtual life... which is as much real as real life!

Keyboard is also one of the dirtiest parts of the computer. Our hands touch them at all times... We type while eating, drinking, studying and writing. We touch the when our hands are in a combination of different states. And we are not the only one who touches them, our co-workers do, our family members and our friends do. All the germs and small grim materials get transferred to the keyboard. They build up day after day... and the structure of the keyboard allows them to stay inside and remain there easily.

There are different ways to clean a keyboard... And I'll discuss of the some here. All can be done easily at home.

Pre Cautions:

• Don't ever BLOW on it... the risk of spit is too great.

• Try not to use a vacuum cleaner as it may pull in some key. There is also some risk of static when using one.

• Remember to plug out the keyboard. Or if it's a laptop, take out the battery.

0. Simple Shaking

Every once in a while we should flip the keyboard n shake it a little or bang a little to let go of the little objects stuck there. It may also solve the problem of the key not functioning properly. This should be done every once in a while to maintain efficiently

1. Using Compressed Air.

One of the easiest and most efficient ways to clean a keyboard is using compressed air. The air blows away dust and an astounding number of things. It also blows away pieces stuck inside. Compressed air is available in cans. Trying to use a high speed fan is not as effective as compressed air.

2. Using damp cloth

Put some cleaner solution on a piece of cloth n let it dry off for about 10mins.After that rub it on the keys... slowly. Try not to press to hard or for too long. Rub them one at a time and try to clean it in a circular motion.

3. Using Cotton buds

This is to clean the sides of the keys. Also with this you damp the ear bud a little and go around doing each key. Try to avoid pressing the sides to hard. It may loosen the surrounding keys and then they might fall of easily

After doing all this use a small cloth... Like the ones given with eye prescriptions, and rub it over the keyboard to take out any left over moisture.

Now you can enjoy your clean keyboard

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