23 Sep
2019
23 Sep
'19
5:17 p.m.
On Sep 23, 2019, at 7:24 PM, Kevin Parker via cctalk
<cctalk at classiccmp.org> wrote:
I resurrected an old keyboard and mouse I like. Not wishing to gross anyone
out but it looks like over time there was a build-up of oil etc from my
hands etc and over time being stored away its turned to a really almost hard
paste like stuff on both the mouse and keyboard.
I've tried number of agents to clean it off but limited success.
Are you talking about the key caps?
Best bet might be to take them off. Usually they do come off. If so, you can test
various solvents. Alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol) might work. Paint thinner, but test
it first to make sure it doesn't dissolve the key cap.
An adhesives specialist friend of ours has recommended WD-40 as a slow but safe solvent to
take off many adhesives. You'd want to clean it off carefully afterwards since it
leaves a messy residue when it dries (WD-40 is NOT a lubricant even though some cans of
the stuff claim it is).
Another option might be to put all the key caps in a mesh container and run them through
the dishwasher.
paul