A silicone keyboard cover is an invaluable accessory that helps protect your keyboard from dust, spills, and everyday wear and tear.
However, over time, these covers can accumulate grime and become a breeding ground for germs.
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the functionality and hygiene of your silicone keyboard cover.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of cleaning and caring for your silicone keyboard cover, ensuring it remains pristine and germ-free.
Benefits of a Silicone Keyboard Cover
Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s highlight the numerous benefits of using a silicone keyboard cover.
First and foremost, it acts as a protective shield against dust, crumbs, and liquid spills that could otherwise seep into your keyboard and cause irreversible damage.
Additionally, the soft and flexible nature of silicone offers a comfortable typing experience, reducing typing noise and improving keystroke response. Moreover, silicone covers are often translucent, allowing the original keyboard design to shine through, adding a touch of personalization to your device.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Cleaning your silicone keyboard cover is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with just a few simple steps:
- Remove the Cover: Gently lift the silicone cover from the keyboard. Start from one corner and work your way around to avoid any damage.
- Shake Off Loose Debris: Take the cover outside and give it a gentle shake to dislodge any loose crumbs, dust, or debris.
- Wash with Mild Soap: Prepare a mixture of lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water and gently wipe the silicone cover’s surface. Make sure not to use harsh chemicals that may damage the silicone material.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the cover with clean water to remove any soap residues.
- Air Dry: Allow the cover to air dry completely before putting it back on the keyboard.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Agents
When cleaning your silicone keyboard cover, it’s crucial to use the right cleaning agents to avoid damaging the material.
As mentioned earlier, mild dish soap and lukewarm water are the safest options. Stay away from harsh chemicals, such as bleach, alcohol, or abrasive cleaners, as they can deteriorate the silicone’s integrity and shorten the cover’s lifespan.
Do’s and Don’ts for Safe Cleaning
To ensure the longevity of your silicone keyboard cover, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while cleaning:
Do’s:
- Clean the cover regularly, ideally once a week.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge for gentle cleaning.
- Allow the cover to dry completely before placing it back on the keyboard.
Don’ts:
- Don’t use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals for cleaning.
- Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as it may damage the cover’s texture.
- Refrain from using a hairdryer or any direct heat source for drying, as it can warp the silicone.
Related Article: How to Put on a Silicone Keyboard Cover: Step-by-Step Guide
Removing Tough Stains Effectively
Over time, your silicone keyboard cover might accumulate tough stains that regular cleaning cannot eliminate. In such cases, a more potent solution is required.
One effective method is to create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and air dry as usual.
Drying Techniques and Timeframe
Proper drying is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. When air drying, ensure the cover is placed on a clean and dry surface, away from direct sunlight.
Allow it to dry for at least 2-3 hours, depending on the surrounding humidity level. If you need to use the cover sooner, you can pat it dry with a soft, absorbent cloth before air drying.
Maintaining a Germ-Free Cover
Silicone keyboard covers can become breeding grounds for germs and bacteria, especially if not cleaned regularly.
To maintain a germ-free cover, consider using an antibacterial wipe or a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for an occasional deep clean. These agents will help eliminate harmful bacteria and keep your workspace hygienic.
Preventing Damage and Wear
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to maintaining your silicone keyboard cover’s integrity.
Here are some tips to prevent damage and wear:
- Avoid eating or drinking over the keyboard to prevent spills.
- Keep sharp objects away from the cover to avoid punctures.
- Clean your hands before using the keyboard to prevent oil and dirt buildup.
DIY vs. Professional Cleaning
While cleaning your silicone keyboard cover can easily be done at home using the methods mentioned earlier, you might consider professional cleaning for older, heavily stained covers.
Professional cleaning services have specialized tools and expertise to remove stubborn stains and revive the cover’s appearance.
Related Article: How to Clean Keyboard Cover and Keep It Germ-Free
Long-Term Durability Tips
To extend the lifespan of your silicone keyboard cover, follow these long-term durability tips:
- Store the cover in a dust-free environment when not in use.
- Avoid exposing the cover to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
- Rotate the cover periodically to distribute wear evenly.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options
For environmentally-conscious individuals, there are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cleaning agents.
Instead of using chemical-laden products, consider using natural ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or baking soda to clean your silicone keyboard cover. These options are gentle on the environment while still effective in removing dirt and stains.
Overcoming Common Cleaning Challenges
While cleaning a silicone keyboard cover is relatively easy, you might encounter some challenges along the way.
For example, stubborn stains, foul odors, or persistent stickiness can be frustrating to deal with. In such cases, refer to the earlier sections of this guide for targeted solutions to these common challenges.
Silicone Cover Care for Hygiene
Maintaining the hygiene of your silicone keyboard cover is vital, especially if you share your workspace with others or frequently touch shared equipment.
By following the cleaning and care instructions in this guide, you can ensure that your silicone cover remains clean, germ-free, and in excellent condition for a long time.
FAQs About How to Clean Silicone Keyboard Cover
Is it advisable to use silicone keyboard cover?
Using a silicone keyboard cover can be a good idea as it helps protect your keyboard from dust, spills, and other contaminants.
It can extend the lifespan of your keyboard and keep it clean.
How do I make my keyboard protector sticky again?
If your keyboard protector has lost its stickiness, you can try washing it with mild soap and water, then letting it air dry.
Alternatively, using a small amount of rubbing alcohol can help restore its tackiness.
How do you clean the rubber on a keyboard?
To clean the rubber parts of your keyboard, use a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of water and a mild detergent.
Gently wipe the rubber surfaces, and make sure to dry them thoroughly.
How do you clean laptop keyboard covers?
Cleaning laptop keyboard covers is similar to cleaning regular keyboard protectors. Wash them with mild soap and water, rinse, and let them dry.
Alternatively, use rubbing alcohol to restore stickiness.
Which is better TPU or silicone keyboard cover?
Both TPU and silicone keyboard covers offer good protection, but TPU is generally more durable and provides better tactile feedback.
Silicone covers are softer and quieter to type on.
Does a keyboard cover cause overheating in a laptop?
No, a properly fitted keyboard cover should not cause overheating in a laptop.
It should not obstruct the laptop’s cooling system and allows proper airflow to dissipate heat.
Can you use hydrogen peroxide to clean a sticky keyboard?
It is not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide to clean a sticky keyboard.
Hydrogen peroxide can be harsh on the materials and might damage the keyboard or its protective coating.
Can you use WD-40 on a sticky keyboard?
Using WD-40 on a sticky keyboard is not advisable.
WD-40 is a lubricant, and its application on a keyboard can make it too slippery for comfortable typing.
What to do if my screen protector is not sticky?
If your screen protector is not sticky anymore, you can try cleaning the screen with a microfiber cloth and a small amount of water.
If that doesn’t work, consider getting a replacement screen protector.
How do you clean silicone rubber?
To clean silicone rubber, use a mixture of warm water and mild soap. Gently scrub the surface with a soft cloth, rinse it thoroughly, and let it air dry.
Why does rubberized coating get sticky?
The stickiness of rubberized coatings is often caused by the breakdown of the material over time.
Exposure to heat, humidity, and certain chemicals can lead to the degradation of the rubber, resulting in a sticky texture.
Does rubbing alcohol clean keyboards?
Yes, rubbing alcohol can effectively clean keyboards.
It helps remove dirt, oil, and grime from the keys and surfaces. Use a soft cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to wipe the keyboard gently.
Final Thoughts About How to Clean Silicone Keyboard Cover
In conclusion, keeping your silicone keyboard cover clean is a small effort with significant rewards. Regular cleaning not only safeguards your keyboard from spills and dust but also ensures a germ-free and hygienic workspace.
Remember to use mild soap and avoid harsh chemicals to maintain the cover’s integrity. Address tough stains with baking soda paste and prioritize proper drying to prevent mold growth.
Embrace eco-friendly options for a greener approach to cleaning. By following these simple steps and incorporating care into your routine, you can extend the lifespan of your silicone cover, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant typing experience for the long haul.
