How To Clean A Black Widow Keyboard

Your Razer BlackWidow keyboard, a gaming essential, is now a grime magnet. Spilled drinks and dust bunnies threaten its performance; immediate cleaning is crucial.

This guide provides a step-by-step method to safely and effectively clean your BlackWidow keyboard. Protect your investment and restore its peak performance with these crucial steps.

What You'll Need

Gather these essential tools for a successful cleaning:

• A keycap puller (included with some keyboards, or purchase separately)
• Compressed air
• Small bowl of warm water
• Mild dish soap (avoid harsh chemicals)
• Microfiber cloths (lint-free)
• Small brushes (like a paintbrush or toothbrush)
• Screwdriver (only if you plan a deep clean, involving disassembly. Be cautious!).

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Step 1: Unplug and Prepare

Unplug the keyboard from your computer.

Taking a photo of the layout is highly recommended. It will help you remember key positions after cleaning.

Step 2: Remove the Keycaps

Use the keycap puller to carefully remove each keycap. Begin with the larger keys like the spacebar or shift keys.

Store the keycaps in a safe place like a container to avoid losing them.

Step 3: Clean the Keyboard Surface

Use compressed air to blast away loose dust, crumbs, and debris from the keyboard surface.

Focus on getting into the crevices and around the switches.

Step 4: Clean the Keycaps

Fill a bowl with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Do not overdo the soap.

Soak the keycaps in the soapy water for 15-30 minutes.

Gently scrub each keycap with a soft brush to remove stubborn dirt.

Rinse the keycaps thoroughly with clean water and allow them to air dry completely. You can use a microfiber cloth to pat them dry.

Step 5: Deep Cleaning (Optional but Recommended)

For sticky or heavily soiled areas, lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with warm, soapy water. Do not soak the cloth. It should not drip water.

Gently wipe down the keyboard surface, paying attention to sticky spots.

Follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess moisture.

Step 6: Reassemble the Keyboard

Ensure the keycaps and the keyboard surface are completely dry. This prevents damage to the keyboard.

Refer to the photo you took earlier and carefully reattach each keycap to its corresponding switch.

Press firmly until you hear a click, ensuring the keycap is securely in place.

Step 7: Final Check and Plug In

Once all the keycaps are in place, double-check the layout and press each key to ensure it functions correctly.

Plug the keyboard back into your computer and test all the keys and functions.

Important Considerations

Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia-based cleaners. They can damage the keyboard.

Never submerge the entire keyboard in water.

If you are attempting a deeper clean involving disassembly, proceed with caution and consult online resources or manuals. You could cause damage.

For stubborn stains or spills, repeat the cleaning process or consider using a specialized keyboard cleaner.

Ongoing Maintenance

Clean your BlackWidow keyboard regularly to prevent buildup and maintain peak performance.

Invest in a keyboard cover to protect it from dust and spills when not in use.