geekhack

geekhack Community => Keyboard Keycaps => Topic started by: Austin Powers on Tue, 17 September 2013, 01:35:55

Title: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Austin Powers on Tue, 17 September 2013, 01:35:55
I always wanted to ask this but afraid some people would say "it's a pointless thread".I'm sure out there, there's someone curious about this. So here it goes, do you put them on straight away or having patience to clean it and wait it to dry?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: meiosis on Tue, 17 September 2013, 01:40:27
I dunk them in rubbing alcohol for a few minutes and let them dry for an hour in the sun.


Imagine where the other persons hands have been >.<
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 17 September 2013, 01:51:02
Generally not.

Nearly all sets and individual key caps I get are new, and I tend to trust the sender.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: The_Beast on Tue, 17 September 2013, 01:52:33
If they are from a GB, no.

If they're from another member, I soak them in warm soapy water for an hour shaking them once to twice and then let them air dry. Akimbo says to put them in a pillow  case and throw them in the dryer on low to speed up the process, but I've never been that impatient to put on a set of caps.

Somtimes I'll soak them over night if they are really dirty (like a used model M's caps seem to be)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: darkfire32 on Tue, 17 September 2013, 02:08:03
For a new set of keys, I wash them in warm soapy water and then air dry. Then I take paper towel with isopropyl alcohol and rub each keycap. Its not that I don't trust the sender, I don't really trust the manufacturing process. Plus, I'm a biology student so I can get paranoid about small details regarding germs.

Its still not as bad as when I received an old, used model M. Washed them with soap and water, left them in the soap water overnight, then clean with isopropyl alcohol. Repeat three times.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: meiosis on Tue, 17 September 2013, 02:10:02
For a new set of keys, I wash them in warm soapy water and then air dry. Then I take paper towel with isopropyl alcohol and rub each keycap. Its not that I don't trust the sender, I don't really trust the manufacturing process. Plus, I'm a biology student so I can get paranoid about small details regarding germs.

Its still not as bad as when I received an old, used model M. Washed them with soap and water, left them in the soap water overnight, then clean with isopropyl alcohol. Repeat three times.

My god, ever since I finished my biochem series I can't stand leaving food out even for 30 minutes.. I get OCD of germs at the microscopic level as well as scratches.. Wash my hands like 10 times a day >.<
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: bahamot on Tue, 17 September 2013, 02:15:34
How bout second hand keyboard?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: dragonxx21 on Tue, 17 September 2013, 02:25:41
I didn't wash my new key caps as they were... well... new.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: cactux on Tue, 17 September 2013, 02:53:44
Yes I do. I use acetone to make sure that all the bacterias are gone lol
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: bueller on Tue, 17 September 2013, 02:55:40
I work in IT, my body is impervious to germs picked up off of keyboards. Got sick constantly the first couple of years though  :mad:
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SoniStreet on Tue, 17 September 2013, 03:05:59
OP, I assume you mean second hand? Because I just ordered dark greys from WASDKEYBOARDS and they are factory-new, so there is no way I would need to clean them. it really sounds like you mean someone has used your keycaps, which in it's self doesn't really sound new.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: terran5992 on Tue, 17 September 2013, 03:16:48
Nope.avi
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: oaklandishh on Tue, 17 September 2013, 03:21:14
Not unless they look nasty. Think of all the little children in third world countries who are rolling in trash for fun and growing up fine. I think I will be  find  from a little second hand key cap usage.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: bueller on Tue, 17 September 2013, 03:24:46
Not unless they look nasty. Think of all the little children in third world countries who are rolling in trash for fun and growing up fine. I think I will be  find  from a little second hand key cap usage.

Yeah my sister is one of those people that washes their hands constantly and uses that purell ****, consequently she has no immune system and is sick CONSTANTLY.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Austin Powers on Tue, 17 September 2013, 03:42:36
OP, I assume you mean second hand? Because I just ordered dark greys from WASDKEYBOARDS and they are factory-new, so there is no way I would need to clean them. it really sounds like you mean someone has used your keycaps, which in it's self doesn't really sound new.

Thick PBT produced my imsto are counted as second hand keycaps?

I'm new to this though. I forgot to add in "how to wash thick pbt keycaps". Some plastic material resists certain chemical. Tried googling them but can't find them. :(
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: RabRhee on Tue, 17 September 2013, 03:57:29
Fit them onto the keyboard, then immerse the whole thing in 2 feet of cold water with bleach in, making sure its connected to the PC and powered up so all that cleaning electricity can swill around.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: cactux on Tue, 17 September 2013, 04:54:24
What does not kill you makes you stronger.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: cactux on Tue, 17 September 2013, 04:55:59
.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: cactux on Tue, 17 September 2013, 04:56:28
.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: phoenix1234 on Tue, 17 September 2013, 05:03:01
Yes, I do generally.
It is because not only I need to clean bacteria but also I need to have the keycap shinier.
Usually, I dip the keycaps in dishwasher soap for about 30 minutes before I wash and clean them with a small toothbrush.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 17 September 2013, 06:30:56
So far I've only washed used keycaps. I just put them in hot soapy water for a while, scrub a little bit and rinse a few times then throw them in a sock and tie a knot in it and put it in the dryer on low for a bit.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: fohat.digs on Tue, 17 September 2013, 07:17:50
I always wash keycaps from second-hand boards.

Pull them off, mix a spoonful of powdered laundry detergent (I like Charlie's) and a spoonful of Oxi-Clean (or Biz) in a liter of hot water and soak for 20-30 minutes. Rinse several times (at least 3) in a wire strainer or colander.

I lay out a T-shirt on the bed, and "sling" each key once to throw the water out of the underside, and toss it aside. Within another 20-30 minutes they are dry and ready to use.

This is enough to perfectly clean 99% of any keys I have ever gotten, and I avoid heat.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: MOZ on Tue, 17 September 2013, 07:22:30
Nah, I don't clean them. I have a rock-solid immune system, eating of street food laced with unimaginable amounts of germs, dust and what not. :D
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: quake4mhg on Tue, 17 September 2013, 20:40:01
Yes yes. I wash at least 2 times, first with Lysol, second time with liquid detergent. No matter where I get it.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 17 September 2013, 20:46:00
Of course not, why on earth would anyone do that?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Game Theory on Tue, 17 September 2013, 20:54:06
Surprisingly enough for me, IT person who always washes hands after touching someone elses keyboard, no except for when getting a complete keyboard (from ebay).  I guess I just do not want a dumpster dived keyboard.  Never thought about it getting second hand key caps.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: jonathanyu on Tue, 17 September 2013, 21:32:49
I don't wash my caps when I receive it, expect one time there was a insect in the bag with the keycaps
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SoniStreet on Wed, 18 September 2013, 01:59:25
I don't wash my caps when I receive it, expect one time there was a insect in the bag with the keycaps

But that only happens with green key caps, coze they are made in the jungle.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Wed, 18 September 2013, 02:17:24
I don't wash my caps when I receive it, expect one time there was a insect in the bag with the keycaps

But that only happens with green key caps, coze they are made in the jungle.

The green ones are not ripe yet - leave them for a while and they turn red.,
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: noisyturtle on Wed, 18 September 2013, 02:19:59
Why would you do this? Real question, if they are factory direct what would washing them accomplish?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: mattics on Wed, 18 September 2013, 02:55:01
For a new set of keys, I wash them in warm soapy water and then air dry. Then I take paper towel with isopropyl alcohol and rub each keycap. Its not that I don't trust the sender, I don't really trust the manufacturing process. Plus, I'm a biology student so I can get paranoid about small details regarding germs.

Its still not as bad as when I received an old, used model M. Washed them with soap and water, left them in the soap water overnight, then clean with isopropyl alcohol. Repeat three times.

My god, ever since I finished my biochem series I can't stand leaving food out even for 30 minutes.. I get OCD of germs at the microscopic level as well as scratches.. Wash my hands like 10 times a day >.<

I am surprised you guys are ok with keyboards, mice and desks given the amount of germs all over them  :))

But in all seriousness, is this not doing much more harm than good? Surely you are better off in the long run exposing yourself to harmless (or not very harmful) germs and letting your immune system get some "target practice" for when it needs to fight off what is potentially an illness? I hear that people who picked their nose (and eat it I presume) as a child (or still do as an adult) usually have a better immune system because of this.

Having said that I would 100% clean used keycaps though, just as I would shower every morning, or wash my hands after going to the toilet or otherwise getting them dirty. But just not 5 showers per day  :p
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 18 September 2013, 06:53:50
Why would you do this? Real question, if they are factory direct what would washing them accomplish?

Some people just like to clean everything and I suppose there could always be some dust or possible grease or oil residue depending on where they originate and also due to shipping etc.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: BliTzKiN on Wed, 18 September 2013, 10:31:34
OCD :D
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: esoomenona on Wed, 18 September 2013, 10:32:32
I don't even clean dirty, used caps. I just put them in a Ziploc bag, and stick them in my box.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Photoelectric on Wed, 18 September 2013, 10:37:44
Only second-hand caps by soaking them in soapy water.  No reason to go crazy, as living in large cities my whole life, there is no way to avoid exposure to viruses and common bacteria while leading a normal life.  Keycaps aren't any worse than public transportation support handles and rails, etc. 
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: yearn4 on Wed, 18 September 2013, 10:41:28
Yes yes. I wash at least 2 times, first with Lysol, second time with liquid detergent. No matter where I get it.

when i read this, i pictured you and ivanivanovich, side by side, cleaning keycaps together LOL
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: MTManiac on Wed, 18 September 2013, 11:07:14
Fit them onto the keyboard, then immerse the whole thing in 2 feet of cold water with bleach in, making sure its connected to the PC and powered up so all that cleaning electricity can swill around.

same process, only I use acetone and bleach.

only buy pbt keys though, those silly abs melt away pretty quickly in that bath  :thumb:
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 18 September 2013, 11:51:07
I toss my caps into a bowl of warm water and add denture tabs. Wait 20 minutes. Longer if they're really dirty. Then let them sit on a towel in front of a fan to dry. Do this for caps I've typed on for a while (clean all my daily drivers about once a month) and for secondhand caps I get. Caps from GBs I don't bother with until I get them dirty.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: tricheboars on Fri, 20 September 2013, 12:09:53
I toss my caps into a bowl of warm water and add denture tabs. Wait 20 minutes. Longer if they're really dirty. Then let them sit on a towel in front of a fan to dry. Do this for caps I've typed on for a while (clean all my daily drivers about once a month) and for secondhand caps I get. Caps from GBs I don't bother with until I get them dirty.

i have been wanting to try the denture tabs method. what brand do you go with? the thread on this site about the denture tabs had some whacked-ass sweedish denture tabs brand that doesnt exist in the US.

these tabs have a ton of chemicals in them and i just want to make sure i am not going to damage a set of WYSE and Model M caps that really need a good cleaning.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Tarzan on Fri, 20 September 2013, 12:16:32
I toss my caps into a bowl of warm water and add denture tabs. Wait 20 minutes. Longer if they're really dirty. Then let them sit on a towel in front of a fan to dry. Do this for caps I've typed on for a while (clean all my daily drivers about once a month) and for secondhand caps I get. Caps from GBs I don't bother with until I get them dirty.

i have been wanting to try the denture tabs method. what brand do you go with? the thread on this site about the denture tabs had some whacked-ass sweedish denture tabs brand that doesnt exist in the US.

these tabs have a ton of chemicals in them and i just want to make sure i am not going to damage a set of WYSE and Model M caps that really need a good cleaning.

I use generic denture tabs from Giant or Safeway.  They do a good job, but some keycaps will need a bit of extra scrubbing with a paper towel or rag to remove built-up crud.

They may have a lot of chemicals, but if they're safe enough to use on dentures, I suspect they're not going to harm keyboard caps.  Plus, they leave them with a nice minty-fresh smell.   ;D
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: TheSoulhunter on Fri, 20 September 2013, 13:07:07
Nope!
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: kenmai9 on Fri, 20 September 2013, 13:24:48
Yeah. I received some dirty caps a while ago and was appalled that the user didn't even bother to rinse the keys once. No one wants another persons finger grime with their keys!!
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Hyde on Fri, 20 September 2013, 15:33:23
Yes yes. I wash at least 2 times, first with Lysol, second time with liquid detergent. No matter where I get it.
when i read this, i pictured you and ivanivanovich, side by side, cleaning keycaps together LOL

LOL indeed IvanIvanovich was Lysol.  Haha this made my day.

And no I never clean my keycaps, I only get keycaps new or from group buy which is also new.  It didn't cross my mind about the factory germs because otherwise you have to clean every new keyboard/mouse that you buy.

:P
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: morflleh on Sun, 22 September 2013, 00:45:19
i clean it with wet wipes only

(http://www.wikimu.com/DataFile/Testimonial/33.jpg)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Dansor on Tue, 24 September 2013, 11:14:15
Hmm... I never even thought of that up until now.

But now that you mention it... ugh... all those disgusting microbes and adorable water bears on my 2 precious second-hand keycaps...

I need to find some lysol!
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: pichu23 on Tue, 24 September 2013, 11:16:38
If it's new then no. But if it's a buy from someone then yes.
But I tend to wash them before sending them out if I were to sell them. ;D
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: terrpn on Tue, 24 September 2013, 21:24:06
no............but i did stay at a holiday inn express :confused:
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: scruffles on Wed, 25 September 2013, 03:52:00
I lick them.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Grim Fandango on Wed, 25 September 2013, 04:10:16
Only when they are second hand. If the sender tells me they are clean / barely used etc. then I do not bother.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: phetto on Thu, 26 September 2013, 05:32:04
I never wash my clacks, too scared
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 26 September 2013, 05:50:46
I never wash my clacks, too scared

Should be fine - just don't use acetone!
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: iri on Thu, 26 September 2013, 07:00:55
I'm a biology student so I can get paranoid about small details regarding germs.
My god, ever since I finished my biochem series I can't stand leaving food out even for 30 minutes.. I get OCD of germs at the microscopic level as well as scratches.. Wash my hands like 10 times a day >.<
you both need a good holiday trip across india!
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: fohat.digs on Thu, 26 September 2013, 08:14:59
I'm a biology student so I can get paranoid about small details regarding germs.

Sometimes you just have to let things go.

Until a century and a half ago, the human race had no idea that germs existed at all. "Surgeons" performed their operations such as amputations and blood-letting without washing their hands or their instruments. There was a communal cup at the well that everyone drank from. Bathing was a weekly/monthly/annual event. Refrigeration was unheard-of. Yes, people died young and mortality rates were high (what the heck does that mean, anyway? the "mortality rate" has always been 100% and always will be).

Not to say that you should not be clean and careful, but how many billions of germs are swarming on your skin right now, and how many do you suck in with every breath you take?

And not to mention "social" activities such as shopping, public transportation, meetings, any team or spectator sport, having sex, or any manual labor .....

There is no "iron-clad" immune system, but keeping your body healthy, strong, and fit is generally the best defense, because we are programmed/evolved to resist the pathogens in our environment.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: terran5992 on Thu, 26 September 2013, 08:20:40
So washing is better than not washing?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Tarzan on Thu, 26 September 2013, 08:54:47
I think it depends on the seller.  If the keycaps are in good condition, seem clean, and I'm comfortable using them myself, then I don't bother washing them.

However, getting a set off of some eBay find is always dodgy, there I usually drop them in hot water with denture tabs as a matter of course.

So washing is better than not washing?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 26 September 2013, 09:11:13
i have been wanting to try the denture tabs method. what brand do you go with? the thread on this site about the denture tabs had some whacked-ass sweedish denture tabs brand that doesnt exist in the US.

these tabs have a ton of chemicals in them and i just want to make sure i am not going to damage a set of WYSE and Model M caps that really need a good cleaning.

I just went to Walgreens and got the cheapest tabs I could find. If its meant to go on dentures which go in your mouth, I assume its fine for your fingers and caps. You won't damage anything. I've cleaned literally every cap set I own with them: Model M, SP caps, Cherry caps, Imsto PBT caps, everything.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Dansor on Thu, 26 September 2013, 09:44:09
I'm making my new policy -
    New keycaps - rinse in warm water just to remove chemicals
    Old keycaps that are visibly grimy - use wipes to clean.
    Old keycaps that look clean - roll around in my mouth for a couple minutes to enhance my immune system with foreign germs and someday gain superpowers

Laugh now, but when I'm King of the Germs, you will be singing a different tune.

Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: phetto on Thu, 26 September 2013, 09:58:03
People are just exaggerating, why would anyone clean new keycaps, thats a really strange behaviour. Are you guys cleaning your hands after shaking hands with someone as well? :D
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 26 September 2013, 10:10:15
People are just exaggerating, why would anyone clean new keycaps, thats a really strange behaviour. Are you guys cleaning your hands after shaking hands with someone as well? :D

Doesn't everybody??  :p
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: phetto on Thu, 26 September 2013, 10:17:15
Dont be scared of germs. I havent had a cold ever, or anything really. Just because I was raised with the belief that a little bit of germs is good for you and increases you immune system. It worked out really well. :D
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Dansor on Thu, 26 September 2013, 10:53:51
http://www.livescience.com/10601-germs-good.html

However, and I'm not making a judgement call here, it's entirely possible that the "Keyboard Enthusiast" set and the "OCD Handwasher" set have more than the statistically expected overlap.

:)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 26 September 2013, 11:02:27
Dont be scared of germs. I havent had a cold ever, or anything really. Just because I was raised with the belief that a little bit of germs is good for you and increases you immune system. It worked out really well. :D

I don't get sick either, just the occasional sinus/allergy type junk.

My kids on the other hand.....they get sick fairly regularly.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Ch0nG on Thu, 26 September 2013, 17:06:21
New keycaps? No, since they're new I don't see a need to clean them. I haven't bought used keycaps (yet) but I'd probably just clean them with a wipe before first use (unless they were really dirty).

As for keycaps I currently have, I clean them when they start to look dirty. Throw each row in it's own bucket of water and a denture/retainer cleaner tab overnight and dry them completely with a soft towel or via air if I have time. I'm currently repairing my DasKeyboard, I just pulled the (dirty!) keys last night and am letting them soak today in the water/denture cleaner mix. Hopefully they'll be nice and minty fresh tomorrow.  :p
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 26 September 2013, 17:14:37
People are just exaggerating, why would anyone clean new keycaps, thats a really strange behaviour. Are you guys cleaning your hands after shaking hands with someone as well? :D

Doesn't everybody??  :p

Perhaps we should all just wear rubber gloves to shake hands.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 26 September 2013, 19:28:55
Dont be scared of germs. I havent had a cold ever, or anything really. Just because I was raised with the belief that a little bit of germs is good for you and increases you immune system. It worked out really well. :D

I don't get sick either, just the occasional sinus/allergy type junk.

My kids on the other hand.....they get sick fairly regularly.

They have more vectors for disease infection than you do. as they are in a crowded environment and they can't shut up ever...

That is the main difference.

(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion/e111de78.gif)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Dansor on Thu, 26 September 2013, 19:51:34
Hmmm... You've piqued my curiosity.
There are a number if obvious, but still interesting, reasons children get sick more often than adults.

For others who enjoy over-analyzing things: http://www.childrensoscillo.com/features/healthy-kids/
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: tbc on Thu, 26 September 2013, 21:41:06
there are EXCEPTIONALLY few real germaphobes out there.  most people are actually washing their hands to clean the dirt/oil.

if nothing else, wash your hands to respect other people before you shake their hand/touch their stuff.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: iri on Fri, 27 September 2013, 03:29:49
I havent had a cold ever
only flu?
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: hazeluff on Sat, 28 September 2013, 11:08:55
Not new keys. I'd be comfortable eating off them or rubbing them against my private parts.

Washed keys i pulled from an old keyboard I bought tho, but then again that's not 'new'.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 28 September 2013, 11:12:47
Not new keys. I'd be comfortable eating off them and then rubbing them against my private parts.

hopefully in that order haha!
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 29 September 2013, 01:22:45
Not new keys. I'd be comfortable eating off them or rubbing them against my private parts.

Rowdy makes a mental note not to buy any key caps from hazeluff.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Pacifist on Tue, 01 October 2013, 00:37:49
So put the keys in denture stuff and then dry em out?

I like the  keys to be really pretty when I use em
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 01 October 2013, 05:32:29
So put the keys in denture stuff and then dry em out?

I like the  keys to be really pretty when I use em

Yes.

There are lots of threads about it (probably).  I use 3 denture tabs in warm water, drop the tabs in and let the fizz up until the water turns blue.  Drop the keycaps in, make sure they are all under the water, then leave them until the water turns clear (or turns brown, depending on how dirty they are).  Drain the water.  I like to t\rinse them in cold water before laying them out to dry, on newspaper is good.  I tend to leave them for a couple of days, but as long as they are dry you should be good to put them back on the keyboard.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Zeal on Tue, 01 October 2013, 06:13:05
No, never thought about washing my keycaps. Then again, I'm still fairly new to GH and haven't bought any second hand caps yet :o
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: fohat.digs on Tue, 01 October 2013, 06:25:26
newspaper is good.  I tend to leave them for a couple of days, but as long as they are dry you should be good to put them back on the keyboard.

If you sling the water out of them by hand, they dry in minutes. A T-shirt spread out on the bed works well, does not have to be a clean one, for me at least.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Reomero on Tue, 01 October 2013, 18:06:23
No, never thought about washing my keycaps. Then again, I'm still fairly new to GH and haven't bought any second hand caps yet :o

"yet" :p
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Pacifist on Tue, 01 October 2013, 19:41:43
Getting some second hand caps in the mail.

Gonna have to find some denture cleaning stuff
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: tormentor on Tue, 01 October 2013, 19:43:10
I didn't even think about this. I just started and the few caps I've bought were new or from group buys. I can see what you mean for used ones though.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Pacifist on Tue, 01 October 2013, 20:06:42
How good is efferdent to clean them? And If I'm just cleaning ~25 keys, do I need 3 tabs or just one? I dug around the house and only found one tab
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Tue, 01 October 2013, 22:47:10
Getting some second hand caps in the mail.

Gonna have to find some denture cleaning stuff

Most supermarkets or chemists should sell it.

How good is efferdent to clean them? And If I'm just cleaning ~25 keys, do I need 3 tabs or just one? I dug around the house and only found one tab

I use 2 tabs for a full 104 set.  One should suffice for only 25 keys.

Try it - it is all you have now anyway.  If it really doesn't work (unlikely) then you can always go and buy a box of tabs.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: fohat.digs on Wed, 02 October 2013, 17:23:43
Powdered laundry detergent (with a bit of Oxi-Clean optional) in hot water works great and is easy and cheap.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: mauri on Wed, 02 October 2013, 23:20:59
No, germs are good for you, I'm building a resistance for all the illnesses in the world and become a superero
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: infiniti on Fri, 04 October 2013, 05:27:41
I got my CC 3D second hand.  His name is Bob.  He likes bubble baths.

(http://imageshack.us/a/img849/6040/lur5.jpg)

Note: The bubble bath uses a no tears formula. ;)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Fri, 04 October 2013, 05:35:33
I got my CC 3D second hand.  His name is Bob.  He likes bubble baths.

Show Image
(http://imageshack.us/a/img849/6040/lur5.jpg)


Note: The bubble bath uses a no tears formula. ;)

I actually LOLed over this :))
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: justnits on Fri, 04 October 2013, 13:11:16
the first time i use my keycool 87 directly from china, i had severe itch all over my body. i didn't noticed it until after a few minutes into using it, i've been scratching my arms, body and neck.
then it occurred to me that ever since i touch this new keyboard, i've been doing it. so i just took them keycaps off and soak them in a basin of water and i poured in some shower gel. i leave them there to soak in while i took alcohol-free baby wipes and wipe the rest of the board. after i'm done with that, i went back to the caps in soap water and give each caps a good rub. then i rinse them, dry them off with towel and blow them dry with a blower. tada~ no more itchiness :P

i recently got another keyboard from china, ikbc f-104, it comes with a set of free vortex doubleshot pbt keycaps as well. instantly i felt hints of itchiness building up on me again, so off to the water basin they go! (except the keyboard, it gets baby wiped)

so from now on, all my keycaps have to get baptised first before joining into the keyboard family :)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: tricheboars on Fri, 04 October 2013, 15:38:46
the first time i use my keycool 87 directly from china, i had severe itch all over my body. i didn't noticed it until after a few minutes into using it, i've been scratching my arms, body and neck.
then it occurred to me that ever since i touch this new keyboard, i've been doing it. so i just took them keycaps off and soak them in a basin of water and i poured in some shower gel. i leave them there to soak in while i took alcohol-free baby wipes and wipe the rest of the board. after i'm done with that, i went back to the caps in soap water and give each caps a good rub. then i rinse them, dry them off with towel and blow them dry with a blower. tada~ no more itchiness :P

i recently got another keyboard from china, ikbc f-104, it comes with a set of free vortex doubleshot pbt keycaps as well. instantly i felt hints of itchiness building up on me again, so off to the water basin they go! (except the keyboard, it gets baby wiped)

so from now on, all my keycaps have to get baptised first before joining into the keyboard family :)

this guy is allergic to chinese
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Fullcream on Fri, 04 October 2013, 17:15:29
Washing new key caps seems a bit over kill to me, unless you're like "justnits" with the China itch thing. I have always washed keycaps from second hand keyboards. Besides getting the germs off, it somehow makes me feel as if now the keyboard is TRULY mine and I possess it.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: darkfire32 on Fri, 04 October 2013, 17:46:30
In addition to germs, you got to make sure that there's no residual semen stains on second-hand keyboards/caps. I don't know about other people here, but I only want my semen to stain my keyboard.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Pacifist on Fri, 04 October 2013, 17:57:55
So I washed it the way rowdy said.

Only difference is I put the keys on some paper towels
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Fri, 04 October 2013, 18:22:34
In addition to germs, you got to make sure that there's no residual semen stains on second-hand keyboards/caps. I don't know about other people here, but I only want my semen to stain my keyboard.

Makes a mental note to NEVER buy keycaps from darkfire32.
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 04 October 2013, 18:43:30
You can ask my early friends on GH, i had some serious beef with used good on GH
used keycaps? eww....
Even with the idea of cleaning them, that grossed me out

but then i tried cherry ds...i immediately got over it, and immediately realized it didn't really matter as long as they got a good clean

doesn't mean i still go after NIB boards and new-er caps..

i do not mind used julysicles either  ^-^
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: YMSNoms on Fri, 04 October 2013, 19:02:34
Normally smash mine in a cold dish washer wash in a little fruit box that is like a plastic cage works well
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: rowdy on Fri, 04 October 2013, 20:12:51
You can ask my early friends on GH, i had some serious beef with used good on GH
used keycaps? eww....
Even with the idea of cleaning them, that grossed me out

but then i tried cherry ds...i immediately got over it, and immediately realized it didn't really matter as long as they got a good clean

doesn't mean i still go after NIB boards and new-er caps..

i do not mind used julysicles either  ^-^

I also would not mind used Julysicles - if anyone has any that they would like to give me ;)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: Dubsgalore on Fri, 04 October 2013, 20:28:17
Hehehe tell me man if you find anyone ;)
Title: Re: Do you wash your new keycaps after receiving it?
Post by: SNF on Wed, 09 October 2013, 04:40:35
Would thick topre PBT caps be safe to wash?  What's the best method?

And does cleaning them occasionally, prevent shine/wear?