7-Step Guide: What to Do If You Spill Water on Keyboard? (Detailed Recovery Tips)

If you spill water on keyboard, immediately power it off and unplug it. If possible, remove the battery. Turn the keyboard upside down to drain excess water and let it dry for at least 24 hours. If you're skilled, you can disassemble it to dry the internal components with a cloth. Finally, carefully reassemble and test to ensure it works.

Let's go into detail about how to fix a water damaged keyboard by following this 7-step guide.

Step 1: Power Off and Unplug Immediately

When water spills on your keyboard, it can create abnormal circuits that may damage it beyond repair. So, the first step of how to fix a keyboard with water damage is to unplug your keyboard.

For laptops, shut them down and disconnect from the power source. For wireless keyboards, remove the batteries to avoid electrical damage. If you're using a wired keyboard, promptly unplug it from your computer. If it’s a USB keyboard, carefully detach the connector. Handle everything gently to minimize water exposure to the electronic components.

 

Mechanical Keyboard	Laptop Keyboard
Wired keyboard: Unplug the connector, turn off your computer, disconnect the keyboard from the computer Wireless keyboard: Turn off the power, disconnect it from other devices, and remove the keyboard batteries (if applicable).	Turn off your laptop If wet, use the circuit breaker to turn off the outlet Unplug any USB drives, dongles, or accessories from the laptop Remove batteries if needed

Step 2: Assessing the Water Damage

Inspect your keyboard for visible water damage: Look for water spots, mineral deposits, or corrosion on the surface. Minor damage might include a few sticky keys or a small spill on the surface. If you see liquid under the keys or pooling on the surface, the damage could be extensive.

You should also check the internal components, like the circuit board, for any signs of water damage. A thorough inspection will help you decide if you can fix the keyboard yourself or if you need to take it to a professional.

Note: The level of damage can differ based on the liquid involved. While water may cause little harm, liquids like spilled coffee or soda can be more damaging to the keyboard's internal components.

Step 3: Remove Excess Water

Turn Keyboard Upside Down to Drain Water

To fix a wet keyboard, remember to flip it over. Place it in a well-ventilated place or on a soft towel to help the water evaporate or be absorbed. You can gently shake it to remove excess liquid, but be careful not to shake too hard, as this can spread the water inside. This step is crucial for properly repairing a water-damaged keyboard and preventing further damage.

Wipe Off Excess Water with a Soft Cloth

To clean your keyboard, use a towel, an absorbent cloth, or a lint-free cloth to blot and wipe the surface. Gently patting the keys can help soak up moisture without pushing it deeper into the keyboard. Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or any materials that may leave behind dust and debris.

For sticky spills such as coffee or soda on your keyboard, start by using a lint-free towel. Also, prepare some cotton swabs soaked in 99% isopropyl alcohol. Lightly dampen the towel and wipe down the keyboard and the keycaps.

For smaller areas, use the soaked cotton swabs to clean them more effectively. To avoid damage, clean the keyboard with isopropyl alcohol, which effectively removes liquids containing sugar and salt.

Step 4: Disassemble Keyboard (if Possible)

1, For mechanical keyboards

When a mechanical keyboard gets wet, water can seep under the keycaps. If the spill involves a sticky liquid like coffee, soda, or juice, it's important to remove the keycaps quickly and rinse them thoroughly with clean water.

Use a keycap puller or a small flathead screwdriver to lift them off gently, and keep track of their positions for reassembly. This process is similar to standard keyboard cleaning, learn how to clean your keycaps and keyboard here.

Don't worry if you don't have a keycap puller, some alternatives can help you remove keycaps. Check out this video about how to remove keycap without a keycap puller. For more information, check out the best keycap pullers and instructions on how to make one.

2, For laptop keyboards

Disassembling a laptop keyboard can be complicated. Begin by removing the screws on the underside of the laptop using a small screwdriver. Next, open the lid and carefully pry up the keyboard, which is typically secured by plastic clips or a bezel. A plastic tool can help you maneuver around the edges.

If the spill involved sticky liquids (such as soda or coffee), lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (not water or glass cleaner) and carefully wipe the underside of the keys and surrounding components. Avoid getting liquid on internal circuits. For grease or residue on the outer casing only (not the keyboard itself), you may use a mild cleaning solution on a cloth to wipe the surface.

Mechanical Keyboard	Laptop Keyboard
Use a keycap puller to remove keycaps Gently lift off the keycaps Noting their positions for reassembly Rinse the keycaps with clean water and let them dry separately	Remove the keyboard’s screws (If needed) Use a plastic tool to maneuver around the edges Open the lid and carefully pry up the keyboard

Step 5: Dry Thoroughly

After a spill, thoroughly drying your keyboard is crucial to prevent corrosion and long-term damage. Eliminate all moisture to protect the electronic components.

Air Dry Thoroughly

To speed up the drying process, point a fan at the keyboard to circulate air and evaporate moisture. Avoid using a hairdryer on a hot setting or leaving it in the direct sun, as heat can damage the machine. If using a hairdryer, set it on low or cool, hold it a few inches away, and keep it moving to prevent damage.

Use Compressed Air (Optional)

Use compressed air to blast any remaining water from your keyboard's internal components. This is especially helpful for forcing moisture out of tight spaces and under the keys and minimizing the risk of damage to the keyboard.

This method is used to remove liquid from hard-to-reach areas. Its primary benefit is blowing liquid out from under keycaps, switches, and the tiny crevices of the circuit board that you can't reach with a cloth.

Use A Desiccant (Optional)

Consider using silica gel packets to help dry your keyboard. These small packets, commonly found in shoeboxes or electronics packaging, are great desiccants that absorb moisture from the air. Simply place desiccant packs under and over the keyboard in a sealed space, like a drawer or box, to remove moisture over a few days.

Desiccants are most effective when used as a final, comprehensive drying method. Particularly after you've already turned off the keyboard, unplugged it, and disassembled it to get rid of as much visible water as possible.

Use Uncooked Rice Grains (Be Careful)

Uncooked rice is an effective moisture absorber, making it useful for drying wet electronics like keyboards. However, this technique is not recommended as rice can get trapped beneath the keycaps and switches, leading to sticky keys and a gritty feel.

If you choose to use this method, you must create a barrier (like a thin cloth) between the keyboard and the rice to prevent direct contact. Leave the keyboard in a sealed container with the rice for at least 24 to 48 hours to allow it to absorb moisture.

Allow Keyboard to Dry Completely (24 - 48 Hours)

Drying can take 24 - 48 hours, depending on the method used. While one day may be enough, waiting 48 hours is safer to prevent hidden moisture damage. Don't rush and reconnect the keyboard prematurely, as it may lead to a short circuit and unwanted risks.

Step 6: Reassemble & Test it carefully

After you've cleaned and dried the keyboard, make sure it's completely dry. Once you're certain it is, plug the keyboard into a USB wall charger or a mobile phone charger. This lets you test if it's working without risking damage to your computer in case there are still internal issues.

If the keyboard shows no signs of problems when plugged into the charger, you can proceed to the final step. Plug it into your computer and test every key to ensure they all work as expected. Don't forget to try some common hotkeys to make sure everything is fully functional.

For laptop users, after reassembling, reinstall the battery (if removable) and close the laptop's back panel. Do not plug in the charger yet; power on the laptop using just the battery. If the operating system loads, this indicates success and no short circuit.

Next, test the keyboard by opening a text editor like Notepad and pressing every key, including function and number pad keys, ensuring each key functions correctly. If all keys work, plug in the charger and use the laptop normally for a few hours to check for any lingering issues.

If you find that your keyboard is typing symbols instead of numbers after drying, you may need to troubleshoot further. You can find tested solutions for this problem in this article: 15+ Tested Fixes Keyboard Typing Symbols Instead of Numbers.

Step 7: Seek Professional Help (If Needed)

If DIY methods haven't resolved your wet keyboard, it's best to seek professional help. Water damage can lead to long-term issues like corrosion. Contact the manufacturer or a trusted repair service for expert assessment. Acting quickly is essential, as professionals have the tools and expertise to tackle complex damage.

9 Tips to Prevent Water Spills on Your Keyboard

Spilling liquid on your keyboard can cause significant damage. To protect your device and extend its lifespan, follow these 9 tips to prevent water spills and keep your workspace safe.

1, Use a keyboard cover: A keyboard cover is an easy way to protect your device from spills. These thin, silicone sheets fit snugly over your keyboard, acting as a waterproof barrier against liquids, dust, and crumbs. This simple accessory can extend the life of your keyboard and give you peace of mind when working near drinks.

2, For laptop users, consider a laptop stand: Beyond keyboard covers, using a laptop stand can help protect your device from spills by raising it off the desk. This creates a buffer zone, preventing liquids on the surface from seeping into your laptop's internal components. When choosing a stand, look for one that also provides good ventilation to keep your laptop cool.

 

3, Avoid eating or drinking over your keyboard: To keep your keyboard safe, establish a "no-drink zone" on your desk. Keep all beverages and food away from your immediate workspace, and consume them in a separate area to avoid any risk of a spill.

4, Keep drinks at a safe distance: In case you need a beverage while working, it's best to keep liquids at a safe distance, at least 30cm (12 inches). Place your drinks on a stable surface, far enough away so a slip of the hand won't accidentally spill liquid onto your device.

5, Use spill-proof containers (bottles with secure lids or mugs with spill-resistant tops): Choose spill-proof containers with secure lids or spill-resistant tops. These specially designed containers help prevent leaks, offering extra protection even if they are accidentally knocked over. By using these containers, you can greatly reduce the risk of liquid spills.

 

6, Consider a water-resistant/waterproof keyboard: If spills are a recurring issue, it might be time to upgrade to a water-resistant keyboard. These models are designed to handle splashes and minor accidents, making them ideal for everyday use. Look for IP ratings on the packaging or product page - IP32 to IP54 indicates resistance to light spills, while IP64 to IP68 means the keyboard is waterproof and can even handle submersion. To find a reliable option, check out our curated list of the Best Waterproof Mechanical Keyboards.

7, Keep cleaning supplies nearby (microfiber cloth within reach): Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. By keeping a microfiber cloth close by, you're prepared to clean up a spill immediately, preventing the liquid from having a chance to seep into your keyboard's internal components.

8, Use a desk mat with raised edges: A desk mat with raised edges can act as a barrier to contain spills, keeping the liquid from reaching your keyboard. This provides an extra layer of protection and makes it easier to clean up any messes.

 

9, Slow down and be mindful: Be mindful of your actions when you're working, and take a moment to consider where you're placing your drink or food. A little bit of attention can go a long way in preventing a costly accident.

FAQs

Should I use a paper towel to dry a spilled keyboard?

No, using a paper towel can leave behind fibers and dust, which may cause further issues.

Should I use a lint-free cloth to clean the spilled keyboard?

Yes, a lint-free cloth is recommended as it helps absorb moisture without adding debris.

Should I use a hairdryer to dry my wet keyboard?

Yes, you still can use a hairdryer to dry your wet keyboard, but this method is not recommended. If you do, use the lowest heat or cool setting and keep it at least a few inches away from metal contacts to prevent damage.

Should I turn on my laptop after I spilled water on it?

No, it’s crucial to avoid turning on your laptop immediately after a spill. Turning it on while there is still moisture inside can cause a short circuit, which can permanently damage the internal components.

Should you soak your wet keyboard in rice?

It's not advisable to soak your keyboard in rice because the rice can get trapped under the keycaps, leading to sticky keys. However, if you decide to use this method, make sure to place a thin cloth as a barrier between the keyboard and the rice. Seal the keyboard in a container with the rice for at least 24 to 48 hours to allow the rice to absorb moisture effectively.