Did you know that your office keyboard might be 400 times dirtier than a toilet seat? Keyboards are one of the most frequently used – and most neglected – items in the office. They gather bacteria, crumbs, and grease from your fingers, creating a breeding ground for germs. This affects the look of your keyboard and can spread germs in the workplace, which in turn impacts employee health and productivity. Regular keyboard cleaning is an easy yet effective way to maintain a healthier workspace.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the importance of keeping your office keyboard clean and provide you with effective cleaning methods. Plus, we’ll discuss why hiring professional cleaning services could be the best option for your business.

Why Office Keyboards Are Dirtier Than You Think

Office keyboards are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, but they can quickly become a hotspot for bacteria. Keyboards are touched regularly throughout the day and pick up dust, oils, crumbs, and other debris. These particles not only affect the appearance of the keyboard but also contribute to the spread of germs throughout the office.

A study from the University of Arizona, noted in recent CBS research, found that a typical desktop has 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. Some of these germs can live on surfaces for up to 24 hours! However, to make matters even worse, research by HuffPost UK finds that computer keyboards can be 20,000 times dirtier than toilet seats! This raises some serious hygiene concerns in shared office environments.

After all, in shared office spaces, germs can spread rapidly. This often results in more sick days, decreased productivity, and lower employee morale. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the UK’s workplace health regulator. They emphasise that occupational hygiene aims to stop health issues at work. This is achieved by managing risks and controlling the number of harmful substances to which workers are exposed.

3 Simple Steps to Clean Your Office Keyboard Effectively

This approach aligns with NHS England’s National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness 2025. They recommend using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub to clean hands and surfaces. These guidelines also cover equipment hygiene.

Step 1: Turn Off & Unplug Your Keyboard

Before starting any cleaning process, ensure that your computer is turned off and your keyboard is unplugged. If you’re using a wireless keyboard, remove the batteries to ensure safety during the cleaning process. This step helps avoid potential electrical damage. It also ensures you don’t accidentally trigger any keys during cleaning.

Step 2: Remove Visible Debris

With your keyboard unplugged, start by turning it upside down to shake out any loose dirt, crumbs, or dust. Use a soft brush, like a small paintbrush or a soft toothbrush, to gently clean between the keys. A can of compressed air can also be used to blow away any stubborn dust. Hold the can upright to prevent condensation from getting into the keyboard.

Step 3: Disinfect & Wipe Down the Surface

Once you’ve removed the visible debris, it’s time to disinfect the surface. Dampen a microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and gently wipe down the surface of the keys. Be careful not to let any liquid seep under the keys. Avoid using excessive liquid to prevent moisture damage. Allow the keyboard to dry thoroughly before reconnecting it to your computer.

Why Professional Cleaning Might Be the Best Option for Your Office

Cleaning your office keyboard on your own is good, but hiring professionals yields a more thorough and consistent result. In a busy office, keyboards and equipment are used by many people every day. This constant use makes it difficult to maintain hygiene through occasional cleaning alone.

Here’s why professional cleaning can be beneficial for your office:

  • Professional cleaners provide regular, detailed cleaning services. They ensure that every corner of your office is sanitised, not just the high-traffic spots.
  • Our team opt for eco-friendly, non-toxic products that are safe for both your employees and the environment. These reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.
  • Outsourcing your cleaning saves your team time and resources. This allows them to concentrate on their work instead of worrying about the cleanliness of their equipment.

Occupational Health helps employers support employee well-being by ensuring safe workplace conditions. When you hire professional cleaners, you enhance productivity and promote employee health.

Keep Your Workspace Clean & Productive

Maintaining a clean keyboard is essential for both hygiene and productivity. Over time, keyboards can host harmful bacteria. This can jeopardise your team’s health and decrease office efficiency. Regular cleaning helps prevent the spread of germs. It also extends the lifespan of your equipment and keeps the environment cleaner for everyone.

When it comes to cleaning, there’s a significant difference between a quick wipe and a professional deep clean. Professional cleaning ensures every corner of your workspace is clean and sanitised. This promotes long-term health and helps create a positive, productive environment. Whether it’s a one-time deep clean or ongoing maintenance, our team offers tailored solutions to meet your unique needs.

Recent research in BMC Public Health has shown that workplace settings impact staff health and well-being. This impacts sickness absence, presenteeism, and productivity. So, equipment hygiene is vital for a healthy workplace strategy.

Invest in Cleanliness for a More Productive Workspace

Keeping your office keyboard clean isn’t just about appearances, but about fostering a healthy work environment.

Keeping things clean:

  • Reduces the spread of harmful germs
  • Prevents potential health issues in the workplace
  • Enables employees to focus and work more effectively

At Dorset Commercial Cleaning, we focus on eco-friendly cleaning options made to fit your business’s unique needs. We offer dependable and thorough cleaning services for everything from keyboards to common areas. This helps keep your workplace healthier and more productive.

Call 01202 986700 or request a free consultation and enhance the cleanliness and hygiene of your office.