How to Clean Macbook Pro Keyboard

Your MacBook Pro is a dependable companion, assisting you with work and leisure. However, with immense power comes the unavoidable result of a filthy keyboard. Crumbs, dust, and the odd coffee spill may all ruin your typing experience. Fear not, because we'll walk you through the easy and effective procedures for cleaning your MacBook Pro keyboard and maintaining it in peak shape in this article.

Materials You'll Need

Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the following materials:

1. Microfiber cloth
2. Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
3. Cotton swabs
4. Compressed air
5. A soft brush (e.g., a clean, unused toothbrush)

Now, let's get started!

Step 1: Power Off Your MacBook Pro

Before embarking on the keyboard cleaning journey, it's crucial to power off your MacBook Pro. Shutting off the gadget provides safety throughout the cleaning procedure, preventing inadvertent harm.

Turning off the laptop allows you to manage it without fear of unwanted consequences. Attempting to wipe the keyboard while the device is switched on might result in faults or damage. 

Step 2: Remove External Attachments

Before embarking on the keyboard-cleaning journey, disconnect all external accessories, such as USB drives and charging cables, from your MacBook Pro. It ensures a clear workspace and prevents any hindrance during the cleaning process.

You create an unobstructed view of the keyboard by removing these attachments, making it easier to identify and target areas that may need attention.

This precautionary step is essential to safeguard your external devices and streamline the cleaning procedure, allowing you to focus solely on restoring your MacBook Pro's keyboard to its pristine condition. 

Step 3: Turn Your MacBook Pro Upside Down

Flip your powered-off MacBook Pro upside down, allowing loose debris to fall out. Gently tap the bottom to encourage the release of trapped dust and crumbs, being cautious not to apply excessive force.

Turning the laptop upside down gives gravity a helping hand in dislodging particles that may have found their way between the keys. It's a simple yet crucial preparatory measure to get started on the next step.

Step 4: Use Compressed Air

Hold your MacBook Pro at a slight angle and use compressed air to blow away loose debris. This step is crucial for dislodging particles from hard-to-reach areas between the keys.

Direct the air in a controlled manner, moving from left to right and top to bottom. The goal is to clear any trapped dust or crumbs that tapping and flipping alone may not have removed.

It ensures a thorough cleaning process and prepares the keyboard for the subsequent steps. Be cautious not to tilt the MacBook Pro too much or use excessive force, as this could damage the keys or internal components.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Keyboard with a Microfiber Cloth

After using compressed air to remove loose particles, take a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Gently wipe down the MacBook Pro keyboard, focusing on the spaces between keys, this will help remove that strange oily shine on the magic keyboard.

Avoid oversaturating the cloth because excess moisture might seep into the keyboard and cause damage. The microfiber cloth helps lift and dissolve grime, oils, and stains on the keys, ensuring a thorough cleaning.

Step 6: Clean Between Keys with Cotton Swabs

Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and carefully navigate it between the keys of your MacBook Pro keyboard. The cotton swab is a targeted tool for cleaning tight spaces that a cloth might miss.

Ensure it's only slightly damp, preventing excessive liquid from entering the keyboard. Glide the swab between keys, absorbing and removing any remaining dirt or grime. 

Step 7: Brush Away Remaining Debris

Using a soft brush, such as a clean toothbrush, carefully sweep away any leftover residue on the keyboard's surface.

This step is essential for eliminating particles that may have become adhered to the keys or concealed in difficult-to-reach regions. Brush gently to prevent scratching the keys or damaging the keyboard. The brush's gentle bristles easily remove any remaining material, providing a complete cleaning operation. 

Step 8: Let Your MacBook Pro Dry

After you've finished cleaning your MacBook Pro, make sure to let it air dry completely. This step ensures that any remaining moisture from the cleaning solution is thoroughly evaporated. Place your MacBook Pro in a well-ventilated area for at least 10-15 minutes before turning it back on to accomplish this.

Patience during this drying period is essential to prevent potential damage to the internal components. Once you're confident that the keyboard is dry, you can safely power on your MacBook Pro and resume normal usage, enjoying a clean and refreshed typing experience.

Step 9: Power On Your MacBook Pro

Ensure your MacBook Pro is completely dry before powering it on after completing the cleaning process. Allow it to air dry for at least 10–15 minutes.

This crucial step prevents potential damage by ensuring that any residual moisture evaporates. Once you're confident that the keyboard is dry, power on your MacBook Pro.

Test each key to ensure they are functioning correctly. If you encounter any issues, recheck for moisture or debris. Taking the time to let your MacBook Pro dry thoroughly is essential to maintaining the integrity of the internal components and ensuring a trouble-free typing experience.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your MacBook Pro keyboard in pristine condition, consider the following maintenance tips:

1. Regular Cleaning: Make keyboard cleaning a routine task to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris.
2. External Covers: Use keyboard covers to protect your MacBook Pro from spills and dust when not in use.
3. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands before using your MacBook Pro to minimize the transfer of oils and dirt to the keyboard.
4. Eating and Drinking: Avoid eating or drinking over your MacBook Pro to prevent accidental spills and crumbs.

Conclusion

A clean MacBook Pro keyboard improves your typing experience and extends the life of your computer. You can maintain your MacBook Pro looking and operating like new with less care and the correct materials. Follow these basic actions regularly, and your faithful friend will continue to serve you well for many years. Have fun typing!