How to Clean Sweat Stains on Your Keyboard: Tips and Tricks

grey keyboard

As we spend more and more time in front of our computers, sweat stains on our keyboards are becoming an increasingly common problem. 

Not only do these unsightly stains look bad, but they can also affect the performance of our keyboards over time. 

In this article, we’ll explore what causes sweat stains on keyboards, how to prevent them, and the best methods for cleaning them up.

Let’s begin.

What Causes Sweat Stains on Keyboard?

Sweat stains on keyboards are caused by the natural oils and moisture that are produced by our hands when we type. 

Sweat is an unavoidable part of life, and when we use our keyboards for extended periods, they can accumulate on the surface, causing discoloration and damage. 

Some factors that contribute to sweat stains on keyboards include:

  • High temperatures and humidity
  • Intense typing sessions
  • Eating or drinking while using the keyboard

How to Prevent Sweat Stains on Keyboard

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent sweat stains from forming on your keyboard in the first place. 

First and foremost, it’s essential to maintain good hygiene by washing your hands regularly and wiping down your keyboard with a microfiber cloth at least once a week. 

Additionally, you can try the following tips to keep your hands dry while typing:

  • Use a hand sanitizer to remove excess oil and moisture
  • Keep a small towel or napkin nearby to dry your hands
  • Use a keyboard cover to prevent sweat from accumulating on the surface

How to Clean Sweat Stains on Keyboard

If sweat stains have already formed on your keyboard, don’t worry. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean sweat stains on a keyboard:

  1. Gather your cleaning materials. You’ll need a soft cloth or cotton swabs, a mild cleaning solution (such as water and vinegar or rubbing alcohol), and a small bowl.
  2. Turn off and unplug your keyboard. Before cleaning your keyboard, it’s important to turn it off and unplug it from your computer to prevent any electrical hazards.
  3. Dampen your cloth or cotton swab. Dip your soft cloth or cotton swab in the cleaning solution, making sure not to use too much liquid.
  4. Clean the affected areas. Use the dampened cloth or cotton swab to gently scrub the sweat stains on your keyboard. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as this can damage the keyboard’s surface.
  5. Dry the keyboard. After cleaning, use a dry cloth or towel to gently wipe down the keyboard and remove any excess moisture.
  6. Allow the keyboard to air dry. Let your keyboard sit and air dry for at least a few minutes to an hour before plugging it back in and turning it on.
  7. Repeat if necessary. If the sweat stains are particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat the cleaning process several times to fully remove them.

It’s important to note that not all keyboards are created equal, and some may require different cleaning methods or specialized cleaning products. 

Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to clean your keyboard and spot-check first before using a cleaning solution on the entire keyboard. 

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to take preventative measures to avoid sweat stains on your keyboard in the first place, such as using a keyboard cover or wiping down your keyboard regularly.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, sweat stains on keyboards are a common problem that can be easily prevented and cleaned up with the right techniques. 

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your keyboard looking and performing its best for a long time. 

If you’d like to learn more about easy cleaning and maintenance for your keyboard, be sure to check out Don’t Let a Dirty Keyboard Slow You Down: Tips for Easy Cleaning and Maintenance.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope you found it helpful and informative.

-Baking Soda Guy

Image by Simon from Pixabay