How to remove the keys on a keyboard

Many people need to remove a keyboard key to clean the key itself or underneath it. For example, cleaning under a key may be necessary when a drink is spilled on the keyboard or food crumbs or other debris are present.

How to remove a key

Before removing any keyboard keys, unplug the keyboard or turn off the computer.

To remove a standard key, start by pressing down on the key in front of the one you want to remove. Insert a flat object below the key, such as a small flathead screwdriver or a car key, as shown in the picture. Once placed below the key, twist the flat object or push down to lever the key until the key pops off. To remove more than one key, repeat this process until all keys are removed.

Once the key is removed, you likely see hair, dust, dirt, or food particles under the key, as shown in the picture. Any of these substances can be removed with compressed air, a damp cloth, or cotton swabs.

If you're removing the key because of a substance spill, clean and dry the bottom of the key, the keyboard, and the key shaft.

Once everything is clean, position the key back in the normal position by pressing it down until it snaps back into place.

Removing, cleaning, and replacing the key does not fix the problem

If you followed the instructions above and successfully placed the key back on the keyboard, but the problem persists, we recommend replacing the keyboard. There may be a problem with the keyboard circuit board, and buying a new keyboard is cheaper than trying to fix or replace that component.