Keeping Your Keyboard Clean and Germ-Free
The Longevity of Viruses on Surfaces
According to research conducted by professors from Princeton University and the University of California, Los Angeles, viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 72 hours. This means that if you come into contact with harmful bacteria and then sit down to work, washing your hands throughout the day may not be enough to prevent recontamination from your keyboard.
Even if you leave the office on Friday and return on Monday, the same bacteria could still be present on your keyboard. This includes the virus that is currently causing widespread concern.
The Danger of Spreading Viruses
Although keyboards are typically touched by fewer people compared to door handles, the risk lies in picking up viruses from the keyboard and potentially spreading them to others, even after washing your hands.
Steps to Mitigate the Risk
While there’s no need to completely avoid using your computer, there are several measures you can take to reduce the risk of contamination:
1. Using Disinfectant and Isopropyl Alcohol
Unlike screens, keyboards can be cleaned using disinfectant and isopropyl alcohol. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the applicator is damp rather than soaking wet to avoid damaging the keyboard’s internal components.
2. Cleaning Your Keyboard: A Step-by-Step Guide
To properly clean your keyboard, follow these steps:
- Unplug the keyboard or turn off your laptop.
- Turn the keyboard upside down to remove debris, but avoid shaking it.
- Use cleaning putty or a can of compressed air to remove excess dirt and grime.
- Wipe the keys and the rim of the keyboard with an antibacterial multi-purpose wipe or a cloth dampened with antibacterial spray.
- Alternatively, create a solution of alcohol and water, and use a spray bottle or dip a cloth into the solution before wiping down the keyboard. Avoid spraying the keyboard directly or using a dripping wet cloth to prevent liquid from seeping between the keys.
- Allow the keyboard to air-dry completely.
3. Maintaining a Clean Work Environment
After cleaning your keyboard, thoroughly wash your hands to ensure the environment remains clean. By regularly cleaning your keyboard, you can maintain a hygienic work station and reduce the chances of harmful bacteria spreading via your hands.
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5 Comments
Ever tried letting your keyboard dip its keys in a sunbath? Works like a charm for getting rid of the invisible nasties.
Oh, so now we’re treating keyboards like delicate flowers? Just use a vacuum and be done with it.
A little isopropyl alcohol never hurt anybody, just dab lightly and swipe away those germs!
Just flip it upside down and give it a good shake; it’s like keyboard yoga for dust bunnies!
A gentle brush and some compressed air will work wonders, no need for a deep dive into the keyboard’s soul!