Macbooks are high-priced devices that are delicate in certain critical areas. Anyone who has owned one is aware of the keyboard gloss that develops over time. While it cannot be completely avoided, it can be mitigated with consistent upkeep.
Here’s how to keep Macbook keyboards from becoming glossy.
Why the Gloss?
The reason this well-known shine occurs on Macbooks and develops relatively swiftly compared to other laptops is that Apple uses ABS plastic for its keys. ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, and this type of plastic has certain advantages compared to other materials used for key caps. It is both sturdy and economical compared to alternatives.
The factors contributing to the shiny keys, appearing more pronounced and quicker than keyboards made from other plastics, are multifaceted. The first is physical – the matte finish of the keys diminishes over time with typing, and since the matte application is particularly fine and as thin as feasible, this can occur rapidly. You will also observe it on the keys and sections of the space bar you use most frequently, as those areas experience the most consistent impact from typing.
The second cause is where you can truly slow the process of accumulating shine on the keys.
Prevention Tips
Our fingers and hands generate oil and sweat throughout the day. They are also proficient at collecting dirt – all factors that can build up on your keys and make them shinier over time. Before each session at your Macbook, attempt to wash your hands first. This will aid in removing excess finger oils and dirt. Additionally, avoid eating above your keyboard to prevent extra grease, grime, and dirt from building up.
ABS plastic is also particularly reactive to heat and UV rays. Typing outside and in sunlight, especially, can gradually deteriorate the plastic, which you will notice as shine over time. When feasible, aim to avoid using your Macbook in extremely hot environments or outside in direct sunlight.
Employing a cleaning solution like iKlear, which numerous Apple stores apply to their display models weekly, keeps oil and grease to a minimum and decreases the level of shine it will accumulate. Although Macbook keyboard shine isn’t completely avoidable, you can slow it down, and now you are informed of how. If this is a significant concern, you can invest in a keyboard cover, but ultimately, the act of typing will wear your keyboard out, even if dirt and grease cannot reach it.