How to clean a MacBook keyboard

Step 0: lock the keyboard

Before you wipe anything, open SeventyClean and click Lock to clean. The keyboard, trackpad and mouse are blocked and the screen goes black, so you can clean without opening an app, selecting everything or deleting a file by mistake. To unlock, hold both Command keys for 3 seconds.

Download the free SeventyClean trial (7 days, macOS 13+).

1. Power down and flip the MacBook

A dry microfiber cloth handles dust and fingerprints. Wipe gently over the keys and the palm rest.

2. For stains, a barely damp microfiber

Lightly dampen the cloth with water or isopropyl alcohol at 70 percent max. Never spray anything directly on the keyboard. Wring it out well: damp, not wet.

3. Dust between keys: compressed air

A can of compressed air, held upright and close, clears crumbs. Tilt the Mac so the dust falls outward.

Mistakes to avoid

• No household cleaner or harsh wipes.
• No liquid dripping between the keys.
• Do not type at random to test it: that is exactly what SeventyClean prevents.

Get SeventyClean and clean stress-free, for life.