Discussion Is it okay to wash keyboard in dishwasher?

[Order 66]

I would assume the answer is no, but I did find articles saying yes, but a lot of people on Reddit say no.

 

[Eximo]

Many cheap membrane keyboards are simple enough that a wash won't kill them. But for the most part you don't know what is inside that might start corroding after washing.

Higher end mechanical or multimedia keyboards or anything with a screen on it, certainly not.

 

[punkncat]

I would suggest a good wipe down with a rag and isopropyl.

I have had mixed luck with trying this, even after seeing a couple of influencers make vids about it. The real trick is that you absolutely positively have to make sure it is fully dried before hooking back up.

 

[Order 66]

Otherwise, I don't really know how to clean a keyboard other than the ways you have suggested.

 

[Eximo]

I should add that most keyboards have some form of lube or grease at minimum on the hinges for the larger keys like space and shift, washing removes this and the keys might start sticking or squeaking.

Key removal and more simple cleaning techniques are better, though there is the risk of breaking tabs and clips. One of the reason mechanical keyboards are more popular with enthusiasts, being able to swap switches and key caps completely solves a lot of keyboard cleaning and maintenance tasks.

 

[Ralston18]

Another factor: dishwasher dry cycle.

What happens to the keyboard when the heat comes on..... ?

 

[JohnBonhamsGhost]

i've only ever used a good extended brush vacuum attachment.
go over once with keys attached for dust, a second time with keys removed for any particles or junk that's fallen behind the keys.

then if needed wipe any fingerprints/stains with a sanitizing wipe.

 

[Bob.B]

I would assume the answer is no, but I did find articles saying yes, but a lot of people on Reddit say no.

I would not do that.
With power off turn the keyboard up side down and tap the back a few times then tilt the keyboard left and tap then right and tap you might find a lot of crud falls out.

Some glass cleaner and a paper towel seems to work well for surface crud.