Macbooks are costly devices that can be delicate in certain critical areas. Anyone who has owned one is aware of the keyboard luster that develops over time. Although it is not completely avoidable, its progression can be hindered with regular upkeep.
Here’s how to prevent Macbook keyboards from becoming shiny.
What Causes the Shine?
The reason this common sheen appears on Macbooks and occurs relatively swiftly compared to other laptops is that Apple employs ABS plastic for its keys. ABS refers to Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, and this kind of plastic has certain benefits compared to others used for keycaps. It is both resilient and cost-effective in comparison to substitutes.
The factors contributing to the shiny keys, which become more apparent and develop faster than keyboards made with different plastics, arise from several elements. The first is physical – the matte surface of the keys diminishes over time with usage, and since the matte finish is particularly fine and as minimal as possible, this can occur rapidly. You’ll notice this more on the keys and sections of the space bar that you use most, as that’s where the most frequent contact from typing occurs.
The second factor is where you can significantly slow down the rise of increasingly shiny keys.
Prevention Tips
Our hands and fingers generate oils and sweat throughout the day. They are also quite adept at collecting dirt – all of which can build up on your keys and contribute to their shininess over time. Before sitting down at your Macbook, try to wash your hands first. This will help eliminate excess finger oils and dirt. Additionally, avoid eating over your keyboard to prevent more grease, grime, and debris from accumulating.
ABS plastic is notably sensitive to heat and ultraviolet light. Typing outdoors, particularly in sunlight, can gradually deteriorate the plastic, which you’ll start to notice as shine over time. Whenever possible, try to refrain from using your Macbook in very hot conditions or outside in direct sunlight.
Using a cleaning product like iKlear, which many Apple stores utilize on their display models weekly, keeps oil and grease levels low and minimizes the shine that accumulates. While completely preventing Macbook keyboard shine isn’t feasible, you can delay it, and now you understand how. If this is a major concern for you, consider investing in a keyboard cover; however, eventually, the act of typing will wear down your keyboard, even if dirt and grease are kept at bay.