Transform Your Typing Experience: Essential Tips on How to Clean Surface Book Keyboard

The Surface Book is a powerful and versatile device, but its keyboard can be a magnet for dust, crumbs, and other debris. A dirty keyboard can lead to sticky keys, typing errors, and even damage to the device. That’s why it’s important to know how to clean Surface Book keyboard properly. This guide will walk you through the best practices for keeping your Surface Book keyboard clean and functioning smoothly.

Why Cleaning Your Surface Book Keyboard Matters

Regular cleaning of your Surface Book keyboard offers numerous benefits:

• Improved Typing Experience: A clean keyboard ensures smooth keystrokes, eliminating the frustrating experience of sticky or unresponsive keys.
• Prevents Damage: Accumulated dirt and grime can clog the key mechanisms, potentially leading to malfunctions or even damage to the keyboard.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: A clean keyboard simply looks better, enhancing the overall appeal of your Surface Book.
• Hygiene: Let’s face it, keyboards can harbor bacteria and germs. Cleaning your keyboard regularly promotes better hygiene, especially if you share your device.

Essential Tools for Cleaning

Before you start cleaning, gather the following tools:

• Compressed Air: This is crucial for removing loose debris and dust from hard-to-reach areas.
• Microfiber Cloth: A soft, lint-free microfiber cloth is ideal for wiping down the keyboard surface.
• Isopropyl Alcohol (70%): This solution is effective for cleaning stubborn stains and disinfecting the keyboard.
• Cotton Swabs: Use these to apply alcohol solution to specific areas and clean between keys.
• Toothpick or Small Screwdriver (Optional): These can be used to gently remove stubborn debris from under the keys.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Surface Book Keyboard

Follow these steps to clean your Surface Book keyboard effectively:
1. Power Off and Disconnect: Before cleaning, ensure your Surface Book is powered off and disconnected from any external devices.
2. Remove Loose Debris: Use compressed air to blow away any loose dust, crumbs, or debris from the keyboard surface and between the keys.
3. Wipe Down the Surface: Dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol and gently wipe down the keyboard surface. Be careful not to soak the cloth, as excessive moisture could damage the device.
4. Clean Between Keys: Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and gently clean between the keys. Avoid applying too much pressure, as you could damage the keys or the keyboard mechanism.
5. Remove Stubborn Debris (Optional): If there’s stubborn debris lodged under the keys, use a toothpick or a small screwdriver to gently pry it out. Be extremely cautious to avoid scratching or damaging the keyboard.
6. Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, allow the keyboard to air dry completely. Avoid using a hairdryer, as the heat could damage the device.

Additional Tips for Cleaning Your Surface Book Keyboard

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or bleach on your Surface Book keyboard. These can damage the surface and the internal components.
• Regular Cleaning: It’s best to clean your Surface Book keyboard regularly, at least once a week, to prevent the buildup of dust and debris.
• Protect Your Keyboard: Consider using a keyboard cover or a screen protector to minimize dust and debris accumulation.

Beyond the Keyboard: Cleaning Your Surface Book

While focusing on the keyboard is essential, don’t forget to clean other parts of your Surface Book:

• Touchscreen: Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the touchscreen.
• Trackpad: Similar to the keyboard, use a microfiber cloth and isopropyl alcohol to clean the trackpad surface.
• Ports and Connectors: Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the ports and connectors on your Surface Book. Be careful not to force anything into the ports.
• Body and Base: Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the body and base of your Surface Book.

Keep Your Surface Book Sparkling Clean: Final Thoughts

Keeping your Surface Book keyboard clean is vital for maintaining its functionality and extending its lifespan. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your keyboard remains free from dust, grime, and debris, providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Remember to clean your keyboard regularly and avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive moisture. With proper care and cleaning, your Surface Book will continue to perform at its best.

Information You Need to Know

1. Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean my Surface Book keyboard?
No, using a vacuum cleaner on your Surface Book keyboard is not recommended. The suction power can be too strong and could damage the delicate keys or internal components.
2. Is it safe to use a disinfectant wipe on my Surface Book keyboard?
While disinfectant wipes can be used to kill germs, they are not recommended for cleaning your Surface Book keyboard. The chemicals in some wipes can damage the keyboard surface or the internal components.
3. How often should I clean my Surface Book keyboard?
Ideally, you should clean your Surface Book keyboard at least once a week to prevent the buildup of dust and debris. However, if you use your device frequently in a dusty environment, you may need to clean it more often.
4. What if my Surface Book keyboard is still sticky after cleaning?
If your Surface Book keyboard is still sticky after cleaning, there might be a deeper problem. Consider contacting Microsoft support or taking your device to a qualified repair technician.
5. Can I use a damp cloth to clean my Surface Book keyboard?
While a damp cloth can be used to clean the keyboard surface, it’s important to avoid getting any moisture into the key mechanisms. Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol and be careful not to soak the cloth.