how to clean a non mechanical keyboard

Cleaning a non-mechanical keyboard, often called a membrane or dome-switch keyboard, is generally a bit simpler than cleaning a mechanical one, but it still requires care and attention to detail.

Read more about how to clean a mechanical keyboard:
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These keyboards don’t have individual switches that can be opened and cleaned, and their internal membrane layers are more sensitive to liquids.

However, they still accumulate all the same dust, crumbs, and grime as their mechanical counterparts, especially in the spaces between the keys.

While you won’t be dealing with individual switch components, keeping a membrane keyboard clean is still important for its longevity, hygiene, and overall typing feel.

Let’s get into how you can give your trusty membrane board a good clean without causing any damage.

Understanding Membrane Keyboard Construction

Before we dive into cleaning, it helps to understand what you’re working with.

A non-mechanical (membrane) keyboard typically works by having rubber domes or a series of plastic layers with conductive traces that make contact when a key is pressed.

There are no individual, spring-loaded switches like in a mechanical keyboard.

This means liquids are even more of a concern, as they can easily seep between the membrane layers, causing shorts or corrosion that are often unrepairable for the average user.

Because of this construction, taking off all the keycaps isn’t always recommended, especially if you’re not experienced. how to clean a gaming keyboard

Some membrane keyboards have keycaps that are very difficult to remove without breaking, or they sit directly on fragile rubber domes.

So, our cleaning approach will largely focus on surface cleaning and careful debris removal without full disassembly.

Essential Tools for Membrane Keyboard Cleaning

For cleaning a non-mechanical keyboard, your toolset is a bit more streamlined.

You’ll definitely want a can of compressed air – this is your primary weapon against dust and crumbs.

how to clean a mechanical keyboard properly

A small, soft brush (like a clean paintbrush or a soft toothbrush) is excellent for sweeping away dislodged debris.

You’ll also need a couple of microfiber cloths, one for dry dusting and another that you can slightly dampen.

For any stubborn greasy spots or sticky residue on the keycaps or case, a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) applied to a cotton swab or a corner of your microfiber cloth is very effective.

It’s really important to avoid excessive moisture when cleaning a membrane keyboard, so steer clear of spraying liquids directly onto the keyboard.

And, as always, having a small trash can nearby for all the gunk you’ll be removing is a good idea. how to clean a mechanical keyboard without removing the keys

Surface Dusting and Debris Removal

First things first, and this applies to any keyboard: unplug your keyboard from your computer. Safety first! Now, turn your keyboard upside down over a trash can. Give it a few firm but gentle shakes. You’ll likely be surprised by the amount of crumbs, pet hair, and general dust that falls out. This initial shake-out gets rid of the larger, loose debris. Next, grab your can of compressed air. Hold the keyboard at a slight angle and, using short, controlled bursts, blast the compressed air across and between all the keys. Work your way systematically across the entire keyboard surface, ensuring you cover all the gaps and crevices. This will push out the finer dust and smaller particles that were clinging on. After the compressed air, take your small, soft brush and sweep it gently across the keycaps and in the spaces between them. This helps to dislodge any remaining stubborn dust or fine particles that might have settled. You can repeat the compressed air and brushing steps a few times until you see no more visible loose debris.

Cleaning Keycaps and Keyboard Case

With the loose dust and crumbs gone, it’s time to tackle the surface grime and fingerprints. Take one of your clean, dry microfiber cloths and wipe down the top surfaces of all the keycaps and the entire keyboard case. This will remove superficial dust and smudges. For a deeper clean, take your second microfiber cloth and very lightly dampen it with plain water. I mean barely damp – it should feel almost dry to the touch, with absolutely no drips. Wring it out thoroughly if you’re using a spray. Gently wipe down the tops and sides of the keycaps. This will pick up oils from your fingers and any light grime. Then, wipe down the entire keyboard case. For any stubborn, greasy spots or sticky residue on the keycaps or case, apply a tiny amount of isopropyl alcohol to a cotton swab or a corner of your microfiber cloth. Gently rub the affected area. Isopropyl alcohol is excellent for cutting through grease. The crucial point here is to use minimal liquid and ensure no moisture seeps into the gaps between the keys or into the keyboard’s internal components. Always follow up a damp wipe with a dry microfiber cloth to absorb any remaining moisture and buff the surface.

When to Consider Partial Disassembly (and Cautions)

While full keycap removal isn’t usually recommended for membrane keyboards, some models allow for the careful removal of individual keycaps, especially if a specific key is sticky due to a spill or heavy grime. how to clean a mechanical keyboard after spill

If you decide to go this route, consult your keyboard’s manual or look for specific guides for your model.

If you can remove a keycap, you might expose a rubber dome underneath.

You can then gently clean around the base of the rubber dome with a cotton swab very lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol, but be extremely careful not to dislodge or damage the dome itself.

Avoid direct spraying or excessive liquid at all costs. how to clean a mechanical keyboard switch

The internal membrane sheets are highly susceptible to moisture and can be permanently damaged.

If your keyboard has a removable top plate (some do), you might be able to unscrew it and gain access to the underside of the keycaps and the top membrane layer.

This allows for a more thorough cleaning of the plate and keycap stems.

Again, be incredibly cautious, document with photos, and be aware that excessive moisture here can ruin the keyboard.

For most non-mechanical keyboards, the surface clean is sufficient and safest. How to cancel free trial

If a key is truly non-responsive or permanently sticky after a surface clean, it might indicate internal damage that’s beyond home repair.