Keyboard protectors, also known as keyboard skins, prevent moisture, dirt, debris, and dust from getting inside a keyboard.
There are many different types of computer keyboard covers, but they can generally be grouped into the following categories: keyboard bags, keyboard protective covers, keyboard protective skins, and keyboard stickers. In this article, we’ll speak about the silicone keyboard cover and its protective features.
What Is the Point of Keyboard Cover?
Covers generally reduce contact of the keyboard with the environment, shielding it from corrosion damage from liquid spills and buildup of dust and debris, requiring frequent cleaning and maintenance. Silicone is a plastic material, so it easily deforms when a key is pressed, allowing full key travel and tactile feedback. Some people use keyboard covers for aesthetic reasons, but they are mostly used to keep the keyboard clean and prolong its life.
Which Keyboard Cover Is the Best?
If you are looking for the most flexible and waterproof keyboard cover, silicone, polyurethane plastic, and Tensor Processing Units are great choices. These materials can be washed, so if you do spill something, it’s easy to clean it. To show off your style, you may prefer one of a bright color or pick a clear cover that lets your keyboard backlight shine through.
In 2022, the market proposes to customers various keyboard covers that:
- cheat sheet for keyboard shortcuts, which saves you from googling them every time you need them;
- thin silicone keyboard covers that allow your backlighting to show right through to use your device in low light conditions;
- covers with air vents to prevent overheating and rubberized feet for better stability;
- anti-allergy latex covers and others.
Whatever cover you pick for your keyboard, it keeps the latter looking new and lovely.
Are Silicone Keyboard Covers Washable?
Over time, oils from the skin, dirt from the environment, and spilled food may collect on the silicone keyboard cover, making it look and feel unpleasant. Don’t rush to buy a new one; these covers are easily washable. Clean your silicone keyboard cover with warm water and mild soap, shake off the water, and let it air dry.
To keep the silicone keyboard cover safe, avoid washing it in the dishwasher or washing machine or exposing it to extreme temperatures. Harsh detergents or chemicals are forbidden to use as they can damage your cover.
How Often Should I Clean My Keyboard Cover?
Of course, you can clean your keyboard cover whenever it gets dirty, but most microbiologists agree that everyone should wipe down their desk and keyboard at least once a week even if it looks tidy. Considering how frequently we use computers, you can imagine how many bacteria the keyboard surface contains. If you share a computer with colleagues, especially during flu season, it’s highly recommended to wipe the keyboard cover at least once per day.
How Do You Install Keyboard Skins?
Keyboard skins are designed to keep the keyboard fresh, but applying them can be a little bit tricky. First of all, make sure that cover skin fits keyboard size. To easily install one, wipe over your keys and keep the guidance:
- Simply remove the sealed plastic package and place the cover over your keyboard.
- The silicone mold and material will naturally ensure the cover stays in place while creating protection.
- Don’t hurry and take your time to check each key as you go to ensure none are still stuck to the guide layer.
As you see, keyboard skin installation isn’t a complicated process if you are gentle with delicate items. You can do it on your own and enjoy the new protective keyboard cover.
