Cleaning an old keyboard

[Paul Koning]

> 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