How to Fix a Sticky Laptop Key

Many of us use our computers every day, sometimes all day. Therefore, it is normal for dust, dirt and grime to get into the small spaces between our devices, including the keyboard.

Stuck dirt can often result in a sticky laptop key, making typing much more difficult. So how can you safely fix a sticky laptop key?

A few forewarnings

It can be difficult to remove a key from your keyboard, but it’s important not to use sharp objects during such a process. While a sharp tool may seem like the best option for getting under a key, it can do significant damage to the keyboard itself. So make sure to use a slightly blunt object for this procedure (which we’ll discuss later).

You should also only clean detached keys with water. Keep water far away from the laptop itself as it certainly doesn’t mix well with electricity.

It’s also best to turn off your laptop before attempting to clean the keys. This way you won’t accidentally perform functions on your laptop when you press the keys and the whole process will be easier overall.

Now let’s explore how to fix sticky keys on laptop.

1. Use compressed air

If your laptop key is just a little stiff, you might be able to get away with non-invasive cleaning techniques like compressed air. Compressed air canisters are great for cleaning tech because they get into the little nooks and crannies of your equipment without causing any damage.

Many use compressed air to clean desktop PCs, game consoles, and other delicate equipment.

To do this, slowly move the canister around the key and continuously blow compressed air through it until you feel the key release.

You can also use other products to easily clean your keyboard, e.g. B. a fine brush or a keyboard vacuum cleaner. Note, however, that these solutions, along with compressed air, are good at removing dust, crumbs, and similar debris from your laptop. They probably won’t be effective for moving tougher dirt.

To thoroughly clean a sticky laptop key, you’ll likely need to remove it from the laptop.

2. Remove the key

To remove a laptop key, you will need to use either tweezers or a screwdriver. You can also use a special key remover, but you don’t have to bother buying one.

These items are perfect for storing under keys without dealing damage. You can also use a dull knife, such as to spread butter, if you don’t have tweezers or a screwdriver handy. But you should exercise caution and use such tools cautiously when handling fragile devices.

It may also be possible to remove your laptop key using just your fingers, but this can be a bit tricky and time-consuming.

To remove your key, gently slide your tool underneath to get a good grip.

Then angle the tool up to gently pull the key away. Do not slide your tool too far under the keyboard as this may cause damage. Simply tilt your tool until the key clicks from the base.

cleaning your keys

If you want to thoroughly clean your keys, you can soak them in warm water with dish soap. Let them soak for a while so all the dirt is removed. You can also use a cotton swab to remove stubborn dirt from the back of your keys.

Rubbing alcohol on a cloth or cotton swab can also be very useful for removing dirt. Alternatively, you can use isopropyl alcohol to achieve the same effect. You can even use gift wrap to easily remove dirt from your keys, although this may not work for all types of dirt.

After you have cleaned your keys, they must be thoroughly dried before you reattach them to the keyboard. You can let them dry for a few hours or pat dry with a cloth or paper towel.

Sticky laptop keys are frustrating but can be fixed

Trying to type with one or more sticky laptop keys can be beyond irritating. But it’s not a permanent condition. Using the tips above, you can safely fix sticky keys on your laptop to get rid of dirt and get back to typing.