Can I wash my gaming keyboard? The answer is yes – with a few guidelines. The type of gaming keyboard will determine the best cleaning process, as some are more sensitive than others. Firstly, if the keyboard is mechanical, then only spot-clean it. This means using a damp cloth to gently remove liquid or dirt from the surface of the keys. If the keyboard is a membrane, then use a mixture of warm water and mild soap. However, never fully submerge a membrane keyboard. Opt for lightly wetting only a cloth and wiping the surface of the keys instead.
What type of detergent should I use? It is best to avoid abrasive cleaning products; such as, detergents with bleach, glass cleaner and wood cleaners. A mild soap such as dishwashing liquid should suffice. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the materials that are used to make the gaming keyboard. If composed of plastic or rubber, then it is best to use a damp cloth and mild soap. Alternatively, if the keys are metal, or composed of metal or aluminum, then wiping the surface with a damp cloth should be sufficient.
Additionally, it is important to dry the keyboard thoroughly once the surface is cleaned. This can be done with a dry cloth or paper towel. Alternatively, if the keys are backlit, then the keyboard should be left to air-dry naturally. It is important to remember that a wet keyboard can lead to undesirable damage. Also, it goes without saying that liquids, such as drinks and food, should be kept away from the keyboard and all gaming equipment.
It is also important to keep the gaming keyboard free of dust, lint and pet hair. For this purpose, a can of compressed air should come in handy. In addition, a dry cloth can also be used to remove any particles of dust that may have accumulated. It is important to note that when using a compressed air can, the keyboard should be turned upside down and all crumbs should be removed before the cleaning process begins.
Finally, using a USB vacuum for those who are particularly fastidious about their gaming setup can be a lifesaver. If a USB vacuum is used, it should be used with caution and a gentle hand, as the vacuum may be powerful enough to remove some of the key material from the keyboard. Likewise, some gaming keyboards may come with a detachable cable, allowing for an easier cleaning.
Unique Types of Gaming Keyboard
Unique to the gaming world are the mechanical, membrane, and hybrid keyboards. Mechanical keyboards are made with individual components that are known to be long-lasting and durable. Membrane keyboards consist of silicone-based components and flexible materials. Lastly, hybrid keyboards are a combination of both mechanical and membrane components. Each of these types of gaming keyboards differ in their cleaning requirements.
Specifically, mechanical keyboards are often preferred amongst gamers due to their key response and durability. It is best to only use a damp cloth when spot-cleaning mechanical keyboards, as the individual mechanical components may be damaged if a liquid is used. Membrane keyboards are a more economical option, and are easy to clean as the keys are made from a more resistant material. A damp cloth and mild soap should suffice to clean the keys from any dirt.
Finally, hybrid keyboards are a more recent invention, combining the best of both worlds. The switch from mechanical to membrane keys is faster in hybrid keyboards and can be enjoyed in both game playing and typing activities. Just as its components are combined, hybrid keyboards should be spot-cleaned just as one would a mechanical keyboard, and then cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Can I Disinfect My Gaming Keyboard?
It is important to be conscious of hygiene, especially when it comes to electrical items like gaming keyboards. Disinfecting or sanitising the keyboard is a viable option to reduce the likelihood of transferring germs and bacteria.
The best way to disinfect some gaming keyboards is to use an alcohol-based cleaning solution. Rubbing alcohol works well in this respect, as it is renowned for its strong disinfecting properties. It is also important to remember that the keyboard should be switched off before cleaning, and should be left to dry completely before being powered up and used again.
Likewise, an all-purpose kitchen cleaner can also be used to disinfect the gaming keyboard. However, it is important to check whether the solution is suitable for the material of the gaming keyboard before using it. In this respect, it is best to test the solution on an inconspicuous corner of the keyboard before proceeding.
A small, handheld vacuum cleaner is also a good option for keeping the keyboard clean and free of dust, as dirt and dust can have an impact on the lifespan of the keyboard. The type of vacuum cleaner should be suitable for computer cleaning and should be used on the lowest power setting.
It is also important to note that although a gaming keyboard may be water-resistant, it is not waterproof. As such, the keyboard should be kept away from any liquid, and it should never be immersed or exposed to any liquids.
Can I Use a Steam Cleaner on a Gaming Keyboard?
Steam cleaners are great for cleaning many items in and around the home, but can it be used on a gaming keyboard? While a steam cleaner can potentially clean the keyboard, it should be used with caution as the key components can be damaged from the high temperature of the steam.
If a steam cleaner is to be used, the keyboard should be removed from the setup. This is because the steam can easily travel through to other devices and cause damage. Moreover, it is important to note that using a steam cleaner on the keyboard should not be done too often, and should be reserved for very deep cleanings.
Additionally, steam cleaning should not be done with a membrane keyboard, as prolonged exposure of high temperature to the keyboard will damage the keys. On the other hand, a mechanical keyboard should be okay to steam clean, as the individual components should be able to withstand the high temperature of the steam.
It is important to note that any form of cleaning should be done carefully and with great caution. Low amounts of force should be applied, as using too much could cause damage to the keyboard. Additionally, cleaning solutions should be used sparingly and as directed.
Are Specialised Cleaners Suitable for Gaming Keyboards?
The gaming world has its own range of specialised products designed to clean gaming keyboards. Specialised cleaners can offer an optimal way to clean a gaming keyboard and can provide a much better clean than a damp cloth and ordinary soap solution.
Specialised cleaners can penetrate deep into the cracks and crevices between the keys to remove dust and dirt, unlike a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner. The solutions can also be easily wiped away with a dry cloth or paper towel. Products such as, gaming keycap sprays and chemical wipes, are a few specialised cleaners that can bring out the best in a gaming keyboard.
However, it is important to read the ingredients of a specialised cleaning product before using it, as this will provide an indication of how the cleaner will impacts the gaming keyboard. Additionally, it is also important to remember that there are some reputable manufacturers who make specialised cleaning products for keyboards, and these should be used for an optimal clean.
Lastly, it is important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning specialised products that come with the gaming keyboard. These instructions may vary depending on the type of keyboard and the cleaning solutions that can be used. By following these instructions, the best possible clean can be achieved with minimal to no damage to the keyboard.
