The computer keyboard is a tool we use daily, often for hours at a time. However, reports suggest it might harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat! But is this claim true? In this article, we’ll explore whether computer keyboards are among the dirtiest items in your environment, why they can get so dirty, and how to keep them clean.
Are Computer Keyboards Really That Dirty?
1. The Study Behind the Claim
Several studies have shown that keyboards can harbor high levels of bacteria. For example, a 2008 study by Which? Computing found that some keyboards contained up to five times more germs than a toilet seat. The warm environment and frequent use make keyboards an ideal breeding ground for microbes.
2. How Dirty Are They Compared to Other Objects?
While keyboards can indeed be dirty, they’re not necessarily the dirtiest items around. Everyday objects like mobile phones, kitchen sponges, and remote controls are also notorious for harboring bacteria. However, since keyboards often come into direct contact with your hands, they pose a unique hygiene risk.
Why Do Keyboards Get So Dirty?
1. Food and Drink Spills
Eating at your desk or drinking coffee while working can lead to crumbs and liquid spills, creating an inviting environment for bacteria.
2. Rarely Cleaned
Unlike toilet seats or kitchen counters, keyboards are often overlooked during regular cleaning routines, allowing dirt and bacteria to accumulate.
3. Skin Contact and Sweat
Your fingers transfer natural oils, sweat, and dead skin cells onto the keyboard, contributing to its grime.
Risks of Using a Dirty Keyboard
1. Health Hazards
A dirty keyboard can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli or Staphylococcus, which may lead to illnesses if you touch your face or eat without washing your hands after using the keyboard.
2. Reduced Lifespan
Dirt and debris can get lodged under the keys, affecting the keyboard’s functionality over time.
How to Keep Your Keyboard Clean
1. Daily Habits
- Wash your hands before and after using the keyboard.
- Avoid eating or drinking near your computer.
2. Weekly Cleaning Routine
- Use compressed air to remove debris from between the keys.
- Wipe the surface with a disinfectant wipe or a microfiber cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
3. Deep Cleaning
For mechanical keyboards or those that are particularly dirty:
- Unplug the keyboard or remove the batteries.
- Take off the keycaps using a keycap puller.
- Soak the keycaps in warm soapy water and wipe the base gently.
Are Keyboards the Dirtiest Thing in the World?
While keyboards can be exceptionally dirty, calling them the dirtiest thing in the world is an exaggeration. Items like kitchen sponges and mobile phones often contain similar or even higher levels of bacteria. However, the ease with which keyboards come into contact with your hands—and subsequently your face—makes them a unique concern in terms of hygiene.
Conclusion
The idea that a computer keyboard is the dirtiest thing in the world may be slightly overstated, but the risks associated with an unclean keyboard are real. Regular cleaning and mindful habits can go a long way in maintaining both the cleanliness of your workspace and your health.
