Yes, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) keycaps can be washed. ABS is a common type of plastic used for keycaps, and it is generally safe to clean them using warm soapy water.
However, it’s important to note that ABS keycaps may be more prone to shine or develop a slightly glossy appearance over time, especially if they are frequently exposed to oils from your fingers or other sources.
Dos and don’ts
Dos
- Do unplug your keyboard before starting the cleaning process to avoid any electrical damage.
- Do turn the keyboard upside down and give it a gentle shake to remove loose debris.
- Do use a keycap puller to remove the keycaps for easier cleaning.
- Do take a picture of your keyboard beforehand as a reference to help you reassemble the keycaps correctly.
- Do soak the keycaps in warm soapy water to remove dust and grime.
- Do swish the keycaps in the soapy water for the first 5-10 minutes and then let them soak for an additional 45 minutes.
- Do use canned air to blow out any remaining lint or dirt from the keyboard.
- Do use a microfiber cloth dampened with soapy water to wipe down the keycaps and the keyboard surface.
- Do wring out excess water from the cloth to avoid introducing moisture to the keyboard.
- Do allow the keycaps to air dry on a towel with the letter side facing up for at least 6 hours.
- Do ensure everything is completely dry before reassembling the keycaps and plugging in the keyboard.
Don’ts
- Don’t use excessive force or harsh cleaning agents that can damage the keycaps or keyboard.
- Don’t wipe the actual switches, especially the top, as dampness can cause damage to the keyboard.
- Don’t skip the step of taking pictures or noting the keycap layout before removing them to avoid difficulties during reassembly.
- Don’t skip the step of shaking the keyboard upside down to remove loose debris.
- Don’t skip the step of using canned air to blow out remaining dirt or lint.
- Don’t submerge the keyboard itself in water or expose it to excessive moisture.
- Don’t rush the drying process; allow the keycaps to air dry for the recommended time to avoid moisture-related issues.
- Don’t use excessive heat sources like hair dryers to speed up the drying process, as they can damage the keycaps.
- Don’t forget to plug the keyboard back in only after ensuring it’s completely dry and reassembled properly.
- Don’t use abrasive materials or scrub the keycaps vigorously, as it can cause scratches or damage the surface.
5-step guide to washing ABS keycaps
Step 1
Remove the keycaps
Start by unplugging your keyboard to ensure safety. Use a keycap puller to gently remove the ABS keycaps from the keyboard. Take a picture beforehand for reference.
Step 2
Soak the keycaps
Prepare a warm soapy water mixture and soak the ABS keycaps in it. Swish them around for the first 5-10 minutes to loosen dirt and grime, then let them soak for an additional 45 minutes.
Step 3
Clean the keycaps
After soaking, use a microfiber cloth dampened with soapy water to wipe down the keycaps. Be gentle and thorough, removing any remaining grime or residue. Avoid wiping the actual switches to prevent moisture damage.
Step 4
Air dry the keycaps
Place the keycaps on a towel with the letter side facing up to air dry. Allow them to dry for at least 6 hours to ensure they are completely dry. This prevents any moisture from dripping down and potentially damaging the keyboard.
Step 5
Reassemble and enjoy
Once the keycaps are dry, reassemble them onto the keyboard, making sure to align them correctly. Plug the keyboard back in and enjoy your clean ABS keycaps!
FAQs
Can I use soap and water to clean ABS keycaps?
Yes, ABS keycaps can be cleaned using a mild dish soap mixed into warm water. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents that can damage the keycaps.
How long should I soak the ABS keycaps?
It is recommended to swish the keycaps in warm soapy water for the first 5-10 minutes and then let them soak for an additional 45 minutes.
Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean ABS keycaps?
It is generally not recommended to use rubbing alcohol on ABS keycaps as it may cause them to become shiny or develop a glossy appearance over time.
Can I wash the keyboard itself in water?
No, the keyboard itself should not be submerged in water or exposed to excessive moisture. Only the removable keycaps can be cleaned with water.
How should I dry the ABS keycaps?
After cleaning, place the keycaps on a towel with the letter side facing up to air dry. Allow them to dry for at least 6 hours before reassembling.
Can I use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process?
It is not recommended to use a hairdryer or other heat sources to speed up the drying process, as it may damage the keycaps. Air drying is the safest method.
Should I clean the switches underneath the keycaps?
It is best to avoid wiping the actual switches, especially the top, as any dampness could cause damage. Focus on cleaning the keycaps themselves.
How often should I clean my ABS keycaps?
The frequency of cleaning will depend on your usage and personal preference. It is generally a good idea to clean them every few months or as needed.
Can I use the same cleaning method for other types of keycaps?
Different keycap materials may require different cleaning methods. It’s important to check the specific cleaning recommendations for the material of your keycaps.
Can I clean ABS keycaps in a dishwasher?
It is not recommended to clean ABS keycaps in a dishwasher, as the high heat and strong detergents can cause damage to the keycaps.
Final thoughts ðŸ’
ABS keycaps can be effectively cleaned by following a few simple steps. Start by removing the keycaps from the keyboard using a keycap puller and soaking them in warm soapy water. After a proper soaking period, gently wipe down the keycaps with a microfiber cloth dampened with soapy water, being careful to avoid the switches.
Air dry the keycaps on a towel for at least 6 hours before reassembling them onto the keyboard. It’s important to avoid using harsh cleaning agents, submerging the keyboard itself in water, and rushing the drying process. By following these guidelines, you can maintain the cleanliness and appearance of your ABS keycaps.
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