The Steel Guitar Forum

Well it could have been posted at one time, I do not know.How do you clean your "keyboard"? All these keys are starting to look really dirty. Any easy way?
Thanks!!
Karen

Alcohol on a soft cloth works well.

Jon

I don't know if I'd use Alcohol to clean the key tops. It may take the identification off of some keyboards. I'd try plain water on a rag (don't spray or pour water directly on the keyboard) to wipe it. If that doesn't get it, a rag with a very small amount of dish washing liquid may get it done. Again you need something mild so you don't remove the numbers and letters on the key tops as many are just decals on the keytops.

You can pop the keys off most keyboards with a knife. Makes cleaning a whole lot easier. They go back on real easy, just get them in position and press. But be careful of the bigger keys, Return, Shift etc., they usually have a little rod that has to be lined up. Use compressed air and a slightly damp cloth. You can buy moist wipes at a computer store.

Some people have had success putting the keyboard in a dishwasher, but I wouldn't recommend it.

My usual method of cleaning a keyboard involves throwing the old one away and buying a new one for $8. If I do decide to take it apart, I will unscrew the back and literally take the whole thing apart...it can be a pain in the butt, but it usually fixes issues like dead keys.

Like I said.
I use a 3M Dust Remover spray can which seems to do the job for me.
It comes with a straw like tube which sprays the air into all the spaces and does a nice job of removing the dust.
Don

Percussive maintenence works for me... & a vacumn cleaner to get dust bunnies

Jack Stoner wrote:
I don't know if I'd use Alcohol to clean the key tops. It may take the identification off of some keyboards.

That may be true. You would have to test it.

However, we have been using alcohol on a soft cloth for over ten years on various keyboards, telephones, calculators etc. in a work environment where they get filthy. We have never had the numbers or letters diminished by this. You dont drench the keys in alcohol. You gently wipe them with a damp cloth. The alcohol evaparates quickly.

If you think it will damage your equipment, then don't do it.

Jon

Some recommend running them through your dishwasher. You can google it and see what you think. I have not tried it.

Throw it in a tub of water. Just be sure it's fully dry before you put any power to it.

Thanks folks for all the great info...my problem is cleaning inside between the keys.I thought mabe there was something on the market just for that.Right now im using Q-tips but that takes forever.Gee its a shame they dont have a gaget like they have to clean blinds.One swipe!! and its done!!Any one one here looking to make a new invention? It would really sale!

KAREN

Hi Karen.
Once you get it clean a bit of Saran Wrap over the keyboard keeps all the dust,dirt and crumbs out.
You can spill coffee or any thing on it with no problems.
Just put a new piece on every couple of weeks or when you wear a hole through the E.
Hope this will save you some work once you get it clean.
George.

Great idea!! after I get it clean thats what im gonna do...Ron has a habit of eating by the pc...ever try getting pizza out of the keys? lol I rest my case.
thanks...
Karen

I bought a cheap 2" paint brush and keep it handy
for my keyboard only. Cleans dust out etc. real good.