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How Do You Clean And Maintain A Mechanical Keypad?

Published on
7 min read
How Do You Clean And Maintain A Mechanical Keypad? image

Best Tools for Cleaning Mechanical Keypads to Buy in October 2025

1 Ryaacphi Professional 10-in-1 Keyboard Cleaning Kit, Retractable Brush & Tools for Mechanical Keyboard, Laptop, MacBook, iPhone Screen, Camera Lens, AirPods, Earbuds, Monitors

Ryaacphi Professional 10-in-1 Keyboard Cleaning Kit, Retractable Brush & Tools for Mechanical Keyboard, Laptop, MacBook, iPhone Screen, Camera Lens, AirPods, Earbuds, Monitors

  • 🧹10-IN-1 KIT: CLEAN EVERY DEVICE WITH PROFESSIONAL PRECISION!
  • ✨SCRATCH-FREE FINISHES: RESTORE SCREENS WITH ZERO STREAKS, GUARANTEED!
  • 🎮GAMER ESSENTIAL: MAINTAIN GEAR'S PEAK PERFORMANCE AND RESALE VALUE!
BUY & SAVE
$11.99
Ryaacphi Professional 10-in-1 Keyboard Cleaning Kit, Retractable Brush & Tools for Mechanical Keyboard, Laptop, MacBook, iPhone Screen, Camera Lens, AirPods, Earbuds, Monitors
2 Walrfid Airpods Electronic Screen 7 in 1 Cleaner Kit Laptop Keyboard Cleaning Tool for ipad/iwatch/Computer/Phone/MacBook with 5ml Touchscreen Cleaners Mist (Grey)

Walrfid Airpods Electronic Screen 7 in 1 Cleaner Kit Laptop Keyboard Cleaning Tool for ipad/iwatch/Computer/Phone/MacBook with 5ml Touchscreen Cleaners Mist (Grey)

  • ALL-IN-2 CLEANING SOLUTION FOR TECH ENTHUSIASTS & GADGET LOVERS!
  • EFFORTLESSLY CLEANS DEEP CREVICES & DELICATE SCREENS WITH EASE!
  • COMPACT SIZE FOR ON-THE-GO CLEANING-PERFECT FOR GIFTS!
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$7.99 $9.99
Save 20%
Walrfid Airpods Electronic Screen 7 in 1 Cleaner Kit Laptop Keyboard Cleaning Tool for ipad/iwatch/Computer/Phone/MacBook with 5ml Touchscreen Cleaners Mist (Grey)
3 20 in 1 Multifunctional Cleaning Kit for Apple Airpods,iPhone,Pad Charging Port,Repair Cleaner Tool Kit for Camera Lens,Earbuds,Laptop,Mechanical Keyboard,sim ejecy Tool,Electronic Product Cleaning

20 in 1 Multifunctional Cleaning Kit for Apple Airpods,iPhone,Pad Charging Port,Repair Cleaner Tool Kit for Camera Lens,Earbuds,Laptop,Mechanical Keyboard,sim ejecy Tool,Electronic Product Cleaning

  • ALL-IN-ONE KIT FOR COMPREHENSIVE CLEANING OF VARIOUS ELECTRONICS.
  • EFFORTLESSLY REMOVE DIRT FROM EARBUDS, CAMERAS, AND KEYBOARDS.
  • COMPACT AND PORTABLE STORAGE DESIGN FOR EASY, ON-THE-GO CLEANING.
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$9.99
20 in 1 Multifunctional Cleaning Kit for Apple Airpods,iPhone,Pad Charging Port,Repair Cleaner Tool Kit for Camera Lens,Earbuds,Laptop,Mechanical Keyboard,sim ejecy Tool,Electronic Product Cleaning
4 Professional Keyboard Cleaning Kit with 32-in-1 Tools for Earbuds,Cellphones, PC, Screens,Camera Lens, Electronics Devices,Mechanical Keyboards,Compact and Portable Design(White)

Professional Keyboard Cleaning Kit with 32-in-1 Tools for Earbuds,Cellphones, PC, Screens,Camera Lens, Electronics Devices,Mechanical Keyboards,Compact and Portable Design(White)

  • VERSATILE 32-IN-1 KIT CLEANS LAPTOPS, SCREENS, AND EARPHONES EFFORTLESSLY.
  • SPECIAL TOOLS MAKE KEY REMOVAL AND DETAILED CLEANING A BREEZE.
  • 24/7 CUSTOMER SUPPORT ENSURES YOUR SATISFACTION AND PEACE OF MIND.
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$11.98
Professional Keyboard Cleaning Kit with 32-in-1 Tools for Earbuds,Cellphones, PC, Screens,Camera Lens, Electronics Devices,Mechanical Keyboards,Compact and Portable Design(White)
5 Frienda 12 Pack Keyboard Lube Switch Puller Kits Key Cap Remover Tools Mechanical Switch Opener for Mechanical Keyboard Removing Fixing Cleaning

Frienda 12 Pack Keyboard Lube Switch Puller Kits Key Cap Remover Tools Mechanical Switch Opener for Mechanical Keyboard Removing Fixing Cleaning

  • COMPREHENSIVE KIT: 8 ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR ALL YOUR KEYBOARD NEEDS.
  • DURABLE MATERIALS: MADE OF HIGH-QUALITY STEEL AND PLASTIC FOR LONGEVITY.
  • VERSATILE USE: PERFECT FOR KEYBOARD CLEANING AND VARIOUS HOUSEHOLD TASKS.
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$8.99 $9.99
Save 10%
Frienda 12 Pack Keyboard Lube Switch Puller Kits Key Cap Remover Tools Mechanical Switch Opener for Mechanical Keyboard Removing Fixing Cleaning
6 VICHYIE 20 in 1 Multifunctional Cleaner Kit for Electronic Devices, Keyboard Cleaning Brush, Headphones Cleaner Kit for AirPods, Multi-Tool for Cleaning Laptop, Earbuds, Camera, Cellphones (Black)

VICHYIE 20 in 1 Multifunctional Cleaner Kit for Electronic Devices, Keyboard Cleaning Brush, Headphones Cleaner Kit for AirPods, Multi-Tool for Cleaning Laptop, Earbuds, Camera, Cellphones (Black)

  • VERSATILE CLEANING FOR ALL YOUR DEVICES IN ONE COMPACT KIT!

  • DEEP CLEAN KEYBOARDS & HEADPHONES WITH SPECIALIZED TOOLS!

  • PORTABLE DESIGN MAKES IT EASY TO KEEP YOUR TECH SPOTLESS!

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$12.89
VICHYIE 20 in 1 Multifunctional Cleaner Kit for Electronic Devices, Keyboard Cleaning Brush, Headphones Cleaner Kit for AirPods, Multi-Tool for Cleaning Laptop, Earbuds, Camera, Cellphones (Black)
7 walrfid Laptop Phone Screen Cleaner Kit, Computer Keyboard Brush Cleaning Spray for iPhone AirPods MacBook iPad, 20-in-1 Electronic Device Clean Tool for Camera Earbud Car Screens (White)

walrfid Laptop Phone Screen Cleaner Kit, Computer Keyboard Brush Cleaning Spray for iPhone AirPods MacBook iPad, 20-in-1 Electronic Device Clean Tool for Camera Earbud Car Screens (White)

  • ALL-IN-ONE KIT: 20 TOOLS FOR COMPLETE ELECTRONICS CLEANING NEEDS!

  • ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANERS: ANTISTATIC SPRAY AND MICROFIBER CLOTH INCLUDED.

  • KEYCAP & LENS CARE: EASILY REPLACE KEYCAPS AND CLEAN CAMERA LENSES!

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$12.91 $13.99
Save 8%
walrfid Laptop Phone Screen Cleaner Kit, Computer Keyboard Brush Cleaning Spray for iPhone AirPods MacBook iPad, 20-in-1 Electronic Device Clean Tool for Camera Earbud Car Screens (White)
8 LOKEKE Multifunctional Cleaning Brush Kit, All-in-One Laptop Cleaning Tool, 32-in-1 Portable Electronics Cleaning Brush Tool Kits for Computer Tablet PC Camera Cellphone Earbuds

LOKEKE Multifunctional Cleaning Brush Kit, All-in-One Laptop Cleaning Tool, 32-in-1 Portable Electronics Cleaning Brush Tool Kits for Computer Tablet PC Camera Cellphone Earbuds

  • 32 ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR A COMPLETE DEVICE CLEANING EXPERIENCE!

  • COMPACT & PORTABLE: KEEP YOUR DEVICES CLEAN ANYWHERE, ANYTIME!

  • ECO-FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS TO MAINTAIN DEVICES & REDUCE WASTE!

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$12.99
LOKEKE Multifunctional Cleaning Brush Kit, All-in-One Laptop Cleaning Tool, 32-in-1 Portable Electronics Cleaning Brush Tool Kits for Computer Tablet PC Camera Cellphone Earbuds
9 PeakTrend 5 in 1 Keyboard Cleaning Brush Kit,Multifunctional Earbuds Cleaner with Keycap Puller,Cleaning Tools for Mechanical Keyboard,PC Laptop and Earphone (Red)

PeakTrend 5 in 1 Keyboard Cleaning Brush Kit,Multifunctional Earbuds Cleaner with Keycap Puller,Cleaning Tools for Mechanical Keyboard,PC Laptop and Earphone (Red)

  • VERSATILE 5-IN-1 KIT: MEET ALL YOUR CLEANING NEEDS EFFORTLESSLY!
  • COMPACT & PORTABLE: EASY TO CARRY, PERFECT FOR ON-THE-GO CLEANING.
  • GENTLE ON SURFACES: SOFT NYLON BRUSHES ENSURE SAFE, EFFECTIVE CLEANING.
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$6.99
PeakTrend 5 in 1 Keyboard Cleaning Brush Kit,Multifunctional Earbuds Cleaner with Keycap Puller,Cleaning Tools for Mechanical Keyboard,PC Laptop and Earphone (Red)
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Cleaning and maintaining a mechanical keyboard involves several steps to ensure its longevity and performance. Firstly, you should disconnect the keyboard from your computer or remove its batteries if it's wireless. Begin by turning the keyboard upside down and giving it a gentle shake to dislodge any loose debris. For more thorough cleaning, use a can of compressed air to blow out dust and other particles from between the keys. A small brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment can also help to reach tight spaces.

For a deeper clean, consider removing the keycaps. Most mechanical keyboards have removable keycaps that can be gently pried off with a keycap puller or a similar tool, taking care not to damage the keys or switches. Once the keycaps are removed, you can wash them in warm soapy water. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching them.

While the keycaps are drying, clean the switches and the keyboard's surface. Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth or cotton swabs to remove any grime or spills. Avoid using excessive moisture or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the electronic components.

Routine maintenance includes regularly dusting the keyboard and checking for any wear or damage to the key switches. Lubricating the switches, if necessary, can enhance their performance and longevity, but this should be done with caution, using appropriate lubricants.

Reassemble the keyboard by reattaching the dry keycaps, ensuring they are firmly seated. Regular cleaning and careful maintenance will keep your mechanical keyboard in optimal condition, preventing issues such as sticky keys or degraded performance.

How do you remove odor from a mechanical keyboard?

Removing odor from a mechanical keyboard involves a series of careful cleaning steps. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:

  1. Initial Assessment: Identify the source of the odor if possible. If it's due to a spill, mold, or general usage grime, specific cleaning approaches may be necessary.
  2. Gather Supplies: You’ll need a keycap puller, isopropyl alcohol (ideally 90% or higher), microfiber cloth, cotton swabs, a small soft brush, and potentially a vacuum with a brush attachment.
  3. Turn Off and Unplug: Ensure the keyboard is turned off and unplugged to avoid any electrical issues.
  4. Remove Keycaps: Carefully remove the keycaps using the keycap puller. This allows you to clean both the keycaps and the keyboard base thoroughly.
  5. Clean Keycaps: Soak the keycaps in a bowl of warm, soapy water for about 30 minutes. Dish soap is sufficient for this task. After soaking, use a soft brush to gently remove any residual grime. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry completely using a towel. Ensure they are fully dry before reassembly.
  6. Clean the Keyboard Base: Use a vacuum or compressed air to remove loose debris and dust from the keyboard. Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and gently clean around the switches and other crevices. Avoid letting any liquid seep into the switches.
  7. Wipe Down: Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to wipe the surface of the keyboard.
  8. Deodorize: For persistent odors, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the base (avoid the switches) and let it sit for several hours to absorb smells. Then gently vacuum or brush it away. Alternatively, leaving the keyboard and keycaps in a well-ventilated area for a few hours can help.
  9. Reassemble: Once everything is dry and odor-free, carefully reattach the keycaps.
  10. Test: Plug the keyboard back in and test to ensure all keys are functioning correctly.

Regular cleaning can help prevent odors and maintain the keyboard’s appearance and functionality.

How do you clean a mechanical keyboard on a budget?

Cleaning a mechanical keyboard on a budget can be both effective and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

  1. Unplug Your Keyboard: Safety first! Make sure your keyboard is unplugged before you start cleaning.
  2. Keycap Removal: Use a keycap puller if you have one, or carefully use a flat tool like a small screwdriver or butter knife, wrapped in a soft cloth to prevent scratching, to remove the keycaps. Be gentle to avoid damaging the switches or caps.
  3. Basic Cleaning Tools: You’ll need some affordable cleaning tools such as: A microfiber cloth or any soft, lint-free cloth. Cotton swabs and toothpicks for detailed cleaning. A small brush or used, clean toothbrush. Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher isopropyl content).
  4. Dust and Debris Removal: Turn the keyboard upside down and shake out any loose debris. Use a hand-held vacuum or a canister of compressed air to blow out dirt from the spaces around the switches. If you don’t have compressed air, gently use the brush to knock dust and crumbs loose.
  5. Cleaning the Keycaps: Soak the keycaps in warm, soapy water for about 15-30 minutes. Use a soft brush or cloth to scrub any remaining dirt or residue. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry completely before reattaching.
  6. Cleaning the Keyboard Base: Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the keyboard base. For tight spaces and around the switches, dampen a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol to carefully clean those areas. Be cautious not to let any liquid seep into the switches themselves.
  7. Deep Cleaning (Optional): If your keyboard is very dirty and the switches allow it, try using a toothpick gently to remove grime from around the switches.
  8. Reassembly: Once everything is dry, reattach the keycaps to the keyboard by firmly pressing them back onto their respective switches.
  9. Final Check: Make sure everything is securely in place, and once it is, plug your keyboard back in.

This method uses materials most people have at home or that can be acquired inexpensively, ensuring you can keep your mechanical keyboard clean without spending much.

How do you remove keycaps from a mechanical keyboard safely?

Removing keycaps from a mechanical keyboard safely is a straightforward process, but it requires a bit of care to avoid damaging the switches or the keycaps themselves. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

  1. Gather Your Tools: Use a keycap puller tool, ideally a wire puller or ring puller that usually comes with mechanical keyboards or can be purchased separately. Avoid using metal tools like screwdrivers, as they can damage the keycaps or switches.
  2. Turn Off the Keyboard: If your keyboard is connected to a computer, make sure it's turned off or unplug the keyboard entirely to prevent any accidental input or damage.
  3. Locate the Keycap to Remove: Decide which keycap you need to take off. It’s often a good idea to start with the larger keys like the spacebar, enter, or shift keys if you’re cleaning or replacing them, as they sometimes have stabilizers that need extra attention.
  4. Use the Keycap Puller: Insert the wire or ring puller over the keycap so that it grips it firmly. If using a wire puller, make sure the two wires hook underneath opposite sides of the keycap.
  5. Gently Pull Upwards: With a straight upward pull, remove the keycap. Avoid twisting or pulling at an angle, as this can damage the switch underneath. For larger keys that have stabilizers, pull one side first, then the other to avoid bending or breaking the stabilizers.
  6. Handling Stabilizers: If a key has stabilizers (like the spacebar), it may require additional care. After loosening one side with the puller, gently work the other side free. For some keyboards, you might need to unclip the stabilizer bars before the keycap releases fully.
  7. Clean or Replace Keycaps: Once removed, you can clean the keycaps and keyboard with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. If replacing, simply align the new keycap with the switch and press down firmly until it clicks into place.
  8. Reinstall Keycaps: Once cleaning or replacement is complete, carefully press each keycap back onto its switch. You should feel them snap securely into place. Ensure they are aligned properly and level with the other keys.

By using the right tools and handling the keycaps with care, you can safely remove them without damaging your keyboard or the individual components.