At a Glance
- A clean keyboard is a hygienic keyboard, reducing the spread of germs and bacteria.
- Hold the compressed air can upright and spray it over the keyboard’s surface, focusing on the crevices and gaps between the keys.
- If you’ve removed the keycaps, you can use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the key switch itself.
The Razer Huntsman Elite is a premium mechanical keyboard known for its responsive keys and sleek design. However, like any keyboard, it can accumulate dust, grime, and debris over time, affecting its performance and aesthetics. This guide will walk you through the best practices on how to clean your Razer Huntsman Elite, ensuring it stays in tip-top shape for years to come.
Why Clean Your Razer Huntsman Elite?
Keeping your keyboard clean is essential for several reasons:
- Improved Performance: Dust and debris can obstruct keystrokes, leading to missed inputs and frustrating typing experiences.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: A clean keyboard looks and feels better, adding to your overall gaming or work setup.
- Prolonged Lifespan: Regular cleaning can prevent damage to the keyboard’s internal components, extending its lifespan.
- Hygiene: A clean keyboard is a hygienic keyboard, reducing the spread of germs and bacteria.
The Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin cleaning, gather these essential tools:
- Compressed Air: This is crucial for removing dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas.
- Microfiber Cloth: A soft, lint-free cloth is ideal for wiping down the keyboard’s surface.
- Isopropyl Alcohol (70%): Use this to disinfect the keyboard and remove stubborn stains.
- Cotton Swabs: These are perfect for cleaning around the keys and in tight spaces.
- Toothbrush (Soft-Bristled): A soft-bristled toothbrush can gently remove debris from between the keys.
- Keycap Puller (Optional): This tool can help remove keycaps for deeper cleaning, but it’s not strictly necessary for routine cleaning.
Disconnecting and Preparing Your Keyboard
Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to disconnect your Razer Huntsman Elite from your computer. This will prevent any accidental damage to the keyboard or your system.
1. Unplug the Keyboard: Disconnect the USB cable from your computer.
2. Remove the Keycaps (Optional): If you want to deep-clean your keyboard, use a keycap puller to safely remove the keycaps. Be careful not to bend or damage the keycaps.
3. Turn the Keyboard Upside Down: Gently shake the keyboard to dislodge any loose debris that may have accumulated.
Cleaning the Keyboard’s Surface
1. Use Compressed Air: Hold the compressed air can upright and spray it over the keyboard’s surface, focusing on the crevices and gaps between the keys. This will blow away dust and debris.
2. Wipe with a Microfiber Cloth: Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the keyboard’s surface, removing any remaining dust or grime.
3. Disinfect with Isopropyl Alcohol (Optional): If needed, dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and gently wipe the keyboard’s surface, paying attention to areas that might have come into contact with your hands. Avoid getting alcohol directly on the keyboard’s electronics.
Cleaning the Keys and Switches
1. Cleaning Between the Keys: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub between the keys, removing any accumulated debris.
2. Cleaning the Keycaps (Optional): If you have removed the keycaps, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean each keycap individually. Pay attention to the keycap’s underside and the key switch.
3. Cleaning the Switches (Optional): If you’ve removed the keycaps, you can use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the key switch itself. Be careful not to damage the switch’s internal components.
Cleaning the Razer Huntsman Elite’s Underside
1. Flip the Keyboard Over: Turn the keyboard upside down and use compressed air to blow away any dust or debris that may have accumulated on the underside.
2. Wipe with a Microfiber Cloth: Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the keyboard’s underside, removing any remaining dust or grime.
Putting Everything Back Together
1. Dry the Keyboard: Allow the keyboard to air dry completely before reassembling it.
2. Replace the Keycaps (Optional): If you removed the keycaps, carefully place them back on the switches, ensuring they are properly aligned.
3. Reconnect the Keyboard: Plug the USB cable back into your computer.
Maintaining Your Clean Razer Huntsman Elite
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your keyboard regularly, ideally every 1-2 weeks, to prevent dust and debris from building up.
- Avoid Spills: Always be careful with liquids around your keyboard. If a spill occurs, immediately unplug the keyboard and dry it thoroughly.
- Use a Keyboard Cover: A keyboard cover can help protect your keyboard from dust and debris when not in use.
The Final Touch: Keeping Your Keyboard Sparkling
Now that your Razer Huntsman Elite is sparkling clean, it’s time to enjoy its enhanced performance and aesthetics. Remember, regular cleaning and proper maintenance will ensure your keyboard stays in tip-top shape for years to come.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use water to clean my Razer Huntsman Elite?
A: No, water can damage the keyboard’s internal components. It’s best to stick to compressed air, microfiber cloths, and isopropyl alcohol.
Q: How often should I clean my Razer Huntsman Elite?
A: It’s recommended to clean your keyboard every 1-2 weeks, but you may need to clean it more frequently depending on your usage and environment.
Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean my Razer Huntsman Elite?
A: While a vacuum cleaner can be helpful for removing dust and debris, it’s important to use a low-power setting and avoid direct contact with the keyboard’s keys and switches.
Q: Should I remove the keycaps every time I clean my keyboard?
A: Removing the keycaps is not necessary for routine cleaning. However, if you want to deep-clean your keyboard, removing the keycaps will allow you to access the key switches and clean them more thoroughly.
Q: What are some tips for preventing my keyboard from getting dirty?
A: To prevent your keyboard from getting dirty, consider using a keyboard cover when not in use, cleaning your workspace regularly, and avoiding eating or drinking near your keyboard.