There are several benefits to using rubber keypads. They are strong, ultra-durable, able to withstand moisture, and offer an ergonomic, comfortable feel. But like all keypads, they are also susceptible to dirt and grime. Over time, debris may settle on the surface of the keys, covering up their respective letters or numbers. And if they aren’t cleaned on a regular basis, some of this debris may seep down into the circuit board where it poses a direct risk to the device’s functionality. So, what’s the best way to clean a rubber keypad?
Feather Duster
There are several different ways to clean rubber keypad, one of which is to simply run over the surface of it using a feather duster. Assuming the dirt is minor and not embedded deep into the keys or circuit, this method should suffice. Simply brush off the keys with a feather duster, paying close attention to the diving areas between the keys. Using a feather duster is a safe and effective way to clean rubber keypads that doesn’t involve any special cleaning chemicals.
Canned Air
A second solution is to use canned air. Containing gases such as difluoroethan compressed into a liquid, canned air is highly effective at cleaning hard-to-reach crevasses, such as those found between rubber keys. While holding the can upright (note: always hold canned air upright and not upside down), perform short bursts of air throughout the rubber keypad. Continue doing this until you’ve covered the entire surface of the keypad, or until there is no longer dirt visible on the surface. Most people will agree that canned air is more effective at cleaning keypads than feather dusters, but you really can’t go wrong with either of these two options.
Rubbing Alcohol
There are times, however, when dirt or grime will become caked on the surface of a rubber keypad. When this occurs, neither a feather duster nor canned air will do the job. Instead, you’ll need to use isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Place a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a lint-free microfiber cloth and gently wipe down the keys. You might be wondering why rubbing alcohol works better than water. Well, alcohol eventually dries, leaving no moisture behind. Water, on the other hand, may linger for hours, days or even longer, damaging electrical circuits.
