Sofia Martinez
If you're looking to fix a sticky keyboard, there are a few methods you can try. Firstly, it's important to identify the cause, which is usually a result of spilled liquid or excess dust buildup. You can try cleaning the keyboard with a damp cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol, ensuring it is completely dry before use. If the keys are removable, take a photo to remember their positions, then remove and clean them. If your keyboard is clean but your computer is not responding to certain keystrokes, try updating your keyboard drivers. For sticky residue, spritz compressed air around each key and use a toothpick to remove any remaining objects. If your keyboard is still sticky, you may need to take it for professional repairs.
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning sticky residue from a keyboard
To clean sticky residue from a keyboard, you can first try removing any loose debris with your hands, shaking the keyboard gently, or blowing compressed air between the keys. If your keyboard is only mildly sticky, you can try using a disinfectant wipe, such as Sani-Cloth Plus, Cavi-Wipes, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, to clean the keys.
If there is sticky residue under the keys, you may need to remove them. Use a small piece of plastic, such as a guitar pick, to release the clips beneath the key, then use a toothbrush or Q-Tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean off the residue. Be sure not to pour alcohol directly onto the keyboard or keys. If there is stubborn buildup, try using a toothpick or a heated needle to carefully dislodge the debris.
Once you have removed the sticky residue, polish the keyboard with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to remove any remaining dust or residue.
If you are unable to remove the sticky residue or if keys are missing or broken, you may need to replace the entire keyboard or buy individual replacement keys.
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Using tweezers and needles to remove plastic pins
Firstly, you will need a pair of tweezers and a needle or a paper clip. It is important to have very fine, sharp tweezers, as the retention mechanism is small and you will need something very thin to get into the tight spaces. If you have a plastic tool, it may help with the extraction, but it is not necessary.
The next step is to heat the tip of the needle or paper clip with a lighter. Be careful not to burn yourself. Once the tip is hot, carefully press it into the leftover plastic pin without touching the switch itself. Allow the hot metal to melt into the plastic and then let it cool.
Now, carefully pull out the needle. The plastic bit should come out with it, and the pin should pop right out. If you are using a plastic tool, follow the same steps, using the white side of the tool for extraction. Gently pull the wire up while sliding the tool down and pushing gently.
If you are having trouble removing the pins, you can try soldering a bit of wire onto each pin for leverage. Then, use needle-nose pliers to grip and pull on the wire. Be careful not to pull too hard, or you might break the spring-loaded lock.
It is important to note that this method may not work for all keyboards, and there is a risk of damaging the keyboard if not done carefully. Always be cautious when working with hot tools and sharp objects.
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Applying lubricant designed for sensitive plastics
When it comes to sticking plastic back on a keyboard, lubricants designed for sensitive plastics can be used. It is important to choose a lubricant that is specifically safe for plastics and does not contain any petroleum distillates that may damage the plastic. Lubricating mechanical keyboard switches can enhance your typing or gaming experience by reducing friction, smoothing out keystrokes, and eliminating scratchy or metallic sounds.
There are several plastic-safe lubricants available:
- Light silicone grease: Apply sparingly and be aware that reapplication may be necessary.
- Powdered graphite lubricant: Safe for plastics and easier to control than liquid or spray lubricants.
- White lithium grease pencils: These have a non-runny "crayon-like" consistency that makes application easy.
- Abu Garcia's Silicote Reel Lube with PTFE (Teflon): Available in small tubes at outdoor stores, this lubricant is designed for lubricating plastic fishing reels and is confirmed to be plastic-safe by the manufacturer.
- Krytox GPL-105: A plastic-safe substitute for Super Lube Oil with Syncolon.
- Super Lube Multi-Purpose Grease: A plastic-safe alternative to GPL-205.
- Dielectric grease, silicone grease, lithium grease, and Extreme Fluoro by Finish Line: These thicker lubricants are safe to use on plastic and are non-conductive. Only a small amount, equivalent to a grain of rice, is needed for each point of contact.
- CAIG Labs DeoxIT lubricant: An affordable spray-on lubricant that is safe to use on ABS and PBT plastics but may increase dirt and dust buildup.
When applying lubricant to keyboard switches, it is important to use a small amount to maintain the intended switch feel and avoid over-lubrication, which can make keys feel sluggish or compromise tactile/clicky feedback. A fine brush can be used to apply a thin layer of lubricant to the desired areas, such as the sides of the stem rails and contact points that slide against the housing.
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Using a silicone keyboard cover
First, you will need to purchase a silicone keyboard cover. These covers are typically inexpensive and can be found online or at electronics stores. When purchasing a cover, ensure that you select the correct size and layout that matches your keyboard model.
Once you have the cover, begin by cleaning your keyboard to remove any dust or debris. This step is important as it ensures that nothing gets trapped underneath the cover, which could affect the sensitivity of your keys.
Next, carefully align the cover with your keyboard. Start by placing the cover over the top row of keys, ensuring that each key is properly centred within its respective hole. Gently stretch the cover over the rest of the keyboard, being careful not to stretch it too thin as this could cause tearing.
Once the cover is in place, press down on each key individually to ensure that the cover is fitted correctly and that each key is responsive. If the cover feels too tight, you can carefully stretch it further, but be cautious not to overstretch it.
Finally, give your keyboard a quick test to ensure that all the keys are functioning properly and that the cover is secure. With the silicone cover in place, your keyboard will now be protected from dust, spills, and everyday wear and tear.
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Cleaning with lemon essential oil
Lemon essential oil is a natural, non-toxic alternative to traditional cleaning products. It is derived from the peel of the lemon fruit, which contains more nutrients and produces a stronger natural aroma. Lemon oil has powerful hygienic properties and its limonene and b-pinene compounds help to disinfect bacteria, pathogens, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms. It can be used to remove dirt and grime residue, polish wood, and degrease hobs.
To clean with lemon essential oil, mix it with vinegar and water in a dark glass or amber spray bottle. The dark colour of the bottle will help protect the cleaner's properties from heat and light sources. You can also add citric acid to this mixture to create a slightly milder cleaner that is safe to use on wood. This mixture can be sprayed directly onto surfaces such as your keyboard, mouse, desk, cooker, bath, sink, shower, and toilet, and then wiped down with a clean cloth.
If you are using lemon essential oil to clean your keyboard, it is important to note that you should not use any vinegar-based recipes if the keyboard has metallic paint, as this can cause corrosion. Instead, you can try using rubbing alcohol to clean the keys and slots on the switches. Isopropyl alcohol can be applied with a damp rag and will absorb any oil on the keyboard. Ensure that you remove most of the alcohol instead of simply letting it soak and dry, as the dissolved oil will return to the affected area when the alcohol evaporates.
Before using lemon essential oil for the first time, it is recommended to carry out a patch test to check for any potential allergic reactions. This can be done by mixing the ingredients in a spray bottle, shaking vigorously, and then spraying a small amount onto a damp cloth before wiping down your keyboard.
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Frequently asked questions
If your keyboard is sticky, you can try cleaning it with a damp cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol. If the plastic around your keyboard is sticky, you can try using lemon essential oil, acetone, or potato starch.
If your keyboard is still sticky after cleaning, you can try using a lubricant designed for sensitive plastics. Do not use a standard lubricant like WD-40, as this may ruin your keyboard.
If your keyboard is physically damaged, you may need to replace the keycaps or the entire keyboard. You can try to remove plastic pins from the keyboard using a heated needle or tweezers.
To prevent stickiness, you can use a silicone keyboard cover or wash your hands before using the keyboard. Regular cleaning with a damp disinfectant wipe can also help to prevent stickiness and remove dust and residue.
