Does Removing Key Caps Damage the Keyboard?

Last Updated:

We may earn commissions for purchases made through links on our site. Learn more on our about us page.

Keyboard with colorful keys - Does Removing Key Caps Damage the Keyboard?

Removing the keycaps could damage your keyboard. It depends upon many factors. Such as how rough you’re with the board, how often you attempt to remove them, and so much more. This is why we are here to help!

Here we will be providing information on the risks of removing the keycaps and how often you really need to be removing them. Leaving you with everything you need to know for the next time you need to clean that keyboard!

 

Can Removing Keycaps by Hand Damage the Keyboard?

Yes, removing the keyboard caps by hand can damage the keyboard. This can happen because if we rip the key off the board too hard or too fast, it can pull the whole key switch out from underneath it. This will result in needing to replace the keyboard.

Lucky for you, there are plenty of tools on the market specifically for removing the keys in a non-harmful way. Even better, there are cleaning products out there specifically made for cleaning keyboards, which might ultimately help you not have to remove the keys at all.

 

Do the Keys Become Loose if You Often Take them Out?

Removing the keys just to put them back in multiple times throughout time, they will get loose. However, keys could get loose anyways after long-term use. This is why it’s important to remove them as little as possible.

If you’d like to attempt to fix the loose key, there is something you can try. Once the key is lined up with the spring underneath it, press down on the key, slightly moving it from side to side until the key goes back into place. 

 

How Often is it too Often to Remove the Keyboard Keys?

Refrain from removing your keyboard keys more than once a month. If you are concerned about cleaning the computer accessory, wipe it down with disinfectant. Save your deep cleans for once a month or six weeks at a time. 

Look into keyboard cleaning products to refrain from removing the keys for longer than a month. These products can range from gel to smaller brushes to even mini air blowers. They will certainly help you keep your keyboard clean without the hassle of removing the keys.

 

Final Thoughts on Damage to the Keyboard Caused by Removing the Keycaps

Removing the keycaps too often and by hand could cause damage to your keyboard, resulting in the purchase of a replacement. In addition, the keys could become loose if taken out and not placed back in properly. 

Keep the keyboard deep cleaning schedule to a minimum, only taking the kay caps off once a month for deep cleaning. This does not mean you can’t use a disinfectant to wipe down the surfaces of the keyboard.

 


Leave a Reply