Master the Art: A Step-by-Step Guide to Switch Cleaning and Lubing

Master the Art: A Step-by-Step Guide to Switch Cleaning and Lubing

Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts know that a well-maintained keyboard is a joy to use. One of the most crucial aspects of keyboard maintenance is keeping your switches clean and properly lubricated. This guide will walk you through the process of cleaning and lubing your switches, ensuring they perform at their best for years to come.

Why Clean and Lube Your Switches?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's briefly discuss why this process is important:

1. Improved smoothness: Lubrication reduces friction between switch components, resulting in a smoother keystroke.
2. Reduced noise: Proper lubing can significantly reduce switch noise, especially for clicky switches.
3. Extended lifespan: Regular cleaning and lubing can extend the life of your switches by preventing wear and tear.
4. Consistent feel: Cleaning removes debris that can affect switch performance, ensuring a consistent typing experience.

For more general maintenance tips, check out our ultimate guide to mechanical keyboard maintenance.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start, gather these essential tools:

• Switch opener
• Small brush (e.g., a soft paintbrush)
• Compressed air can
• Switch lubricant (e.g., Krytox 205g0 for linear switches, Tribosys 3203 for tactile switches)
• Fine-tipped brush for applying lube
• Switch puller
• Keycap puller
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Microfiber cloth
• Optional: ultrasonic cleaner

Step 1: Disassemble Your Keyboard

1. Unplug your keyboard.
2. Remove all keycaps using a keycap puller.
3. If your keyboard allows, remove the switches using a switch puller.

Step 2: Open the Switches

1. Use your switch opener to carefully open each switch.
2. Separate the top housing, bottom housing, stem, and spring.

Step 3: Clean the Switch Components

1. Use compressed air to blow out any visible debris from each component.
2. For stubborn dirt, use a small brush dipped in isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the parts.
3. If you have an ultrasonic cleaner, you can use it for a deeper clean. Place the components in the cleaner with a mixture of warm water and a drop of dish soap for 3-5 minutes.
4. Dry all parts thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

Step 4: Lubricate the Switches

Note: Different switch types require different lubrication techniques. For a detailed explanation of switch types, refer to our guide on mechanical keyboard switch types.

Lubing Linear Switches

1. Apply a thin layer of lube to the stem legs and the areas of the stem that contact the housing.
2. Lightly lube the inside of the top and bottom housing where the stem makes contact.
3. Apply a small amount of lube to the spring ends.

Lubing Tactile Switches

1. Apply lube to the stem legs, avoiding the tactile legs to preserve the tactile feel.
2. Lightly lube the inside of the top and bottom housing, avoiding areas that contact the tactile legs.
3. Lube the spring ends as with linear switches.

Lubing Clicky Switches

Clicky switches are typically not lubed to preserve their distinctive sound. If you decide to lube them, focus only on the spring to reduce ping without affecting the click.

Step 5: Reassemble the Switches

1. Carefully place the spring back into the bottom housing.
2. Insert the stem into the bottom housing, ensuring it's oriented correctly.
3. Snap the top housing back onto the bottom housing.

Step 6: Test and Reinstall

1. Before reinstalling all switches, test a few to ensure they feel and sound as expected.
2. If satisfied, reinstall all switches into your keyboard.
3. Replace the keycaps.
4. Test all keys to ensure proper functionality.

Maintenance Tips

• Perform this process every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
• Keep your keyboard clean to reduce the frequency of deep cleaning. Our essential mechanical keyboard maintenance tips can help with daily upkeep.
• Consider investing in high-quality switches to extend the time between maintenance sessions. Check out our guide on the best places to buy mechanical switches for reliable sources.

Conclusion

Cleaning and lubing your mechanical keyboard switches might seem daunting at first, but with practice, it becomes a rewarding process. Not only does it improve your typing experience, but it also extends the life of your beloved keyboard. Remember, patience is key – take your time and enjoy the process of fine-tuning your mechanical keyboard to perfection.

By following this guide, you're well on your way to maintaining a keyboard that not only looks great but performs exceptionally. Happy typing!