What To Know
- The best way to keep your Surface Pro keyboard clean is to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating in the first place.
- Make it a habit to wipe down your keyboard with a microfiber cloth at least once a week.
- Use a Q-tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean around the edges of keys and in the crevices where sticky residue might be trapped.
Your Surface Pro keyboard is your gateway to a world of productivity and creativity. But just like any tool, it needs regular maintenance to stay in tip-top shape. A clean keyboard not only looks better but also performs better, ensuring smooth typing and a more enjoyable user experience. This guide will walk you through the best practices on how to clean a Surface Pro keyboard, ensuring your device stays healthy and functional.
The Power of Prevention: Avoiding Keyboard Contamination
The best way to keep your Surface Pro keyboard clean is to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating in the first place. Here are a few simple tips:
- Mindful Typing: Avoid eating or drinking near your Surface Pro. Crumbs and spills are the biggest culprits of keyboard contamination.
- Regular Cleaning: Make it a habit to wipe down your keyboard with a microfiber cloth at least once a week. This removes surface dust and debris before they can build up.
- Keyboard Cover: Consider investing in a keyboard cover. These thin, protective shields act as a barrier against dust, spills, and everyday wear and tear.
The Cleaning Arsenal: Essential Tools and Supplies
Before you start cleaning, gather the right tools to ensure a thorough and safe cleaning process:
- Microfiber Cloth: Soft and lint-free, microfiber cloths are ideal for wiping down the keyboard surface without scratching it.
- Compressed Air: This handy tool blasts away dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas between the keys.
- Isopropyl Alcohol (70%): A mild disinfectant, isopropyl alcohol is effective at removing sticky residue and killing germs. It’s important to use a 70% solution, as higher concentrations can damage the keyboard.
- Q-tips or Cotton Swabs: These are useful for cleaning around the edges of keys and other tight spaces.
- Soft-Bristled Brush: A small, soft-bristled brush can help loosen stubborn debris before you wipe it away.
The Gentle Approach: Cleaning the Surface of Your Keyboard
Now that you have your tools ready, it’s time to tackle the cleaning process. Remember, always power down your Surface Pro and disconnect it from any power source before you begin.
1. Dusting: Start by using compressed air to blow away dust and loose debris from the keyboard surface and between the keys. Hold the can upright and use short bursts of air to avoid damaging the keyboard.
2. Wiping: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol. Avoid soaking the cloth, as excess moisture can seep into the keyboard and damage the electronics.
3. Surface Cleaning: Gently wipe down the keyboard surface, paying attention to the edges and around the keys. Use a Q-tip or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the crevices and around the keys.
4. Drying: Once you’ve wiped the entire keyboard, use a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
Tackling Stubborn Stains: Removing Sticky Residues
Sometimes, spills or sticky residues require a bit more effort to remove. Here’s how to tackle those stubborn stains:
- Gentle Cleaning: For sticky residues, try using a slightly damp microfiber cloth with a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the keyboard.
- Q-tip Assistance: Use a Q-tip dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean around the edges of keys and in the crevices where sticky residue might be trapped.
- Patience is Key: Be patient and persistent. It may take a few passes to remove stubborn stains completely.
The Final Touches: Restoring Your Keyboard to Its Former Glory
Once you’ve cleaned the keyboard, you can take a few extra steps to restore its shine and protect it from future contamination:
- Keyboard Cover: If you don’t already have one, consider investing in a keyboard cover. These provide an extra layer of protection against dust, spills, and everyday wear and tear.
- Regular Maintenance: Make it a habit to clean your keyboard regularly, at least once a week. This will help prevent dirt and grime from accumulating and ensure a smooth typing experience.
Beyond the Keyboard: Cleaning the Surface Pro Touchscreen
Your Surface Pro‘s touchscreen is another area that benefits from regular cleaning. Here’s how to keep it sparkling clean:
- Microfiber Cloth: A microfiber cloth is the best tool for cleaning your touchscreen. It’s soft and lint-free, ensuring a streak-free finish.
- Mild Cleaning Solution: If your touchscreen is particularly dirty, you can use a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for electronics. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Gentle Wiping: Gently wipe the touchscreen in circular motions, using a light touch. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can damage the screen.
Time to Shine: Your Surface Pro Keyboard is Now Pristine
By following these steps, you can keep your Surface Pro keyboard clean and in optimal condition. A clean keyboard not only looks better but also performs better, ensuring a smooth typing experience and a more enjoyable user experience. Remember, prevention is key, so make it a habit to clean your keyboard regularly and avoid spills and crumbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean my Surface Pro keyboard?
A: It’s not recommended to use a vacuum cleaner on your Surface Pro keyboard. The strong suction can damage the delicate keys and internal components.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my Surface Pro keyboard?
A: Bleach is a harsh chemical that can damage the keyboard and its electronics. It’s best to avoid using bleach on your Surface Pro keyboard.
Q: How often should I clean my Surface Pro keyboard?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your Surface Pro keyboard at least once a week, or more often if you use it frequently in a dusty environment.
Q: What if I accidentally spill liquid on my Surface Pro keyboard?
A: If you spill liquid on your Surface Pro keyboard, immediately power it off and unplug it from any power source. Do not attempt to turn it on until it’s completely dry. If possible, tilt the keyboard to allow any excess liquid to drain out. Contact Microsoft support or a qualified technician for further assistance.
