got his used low-profile keyboard with cherry mx red switches. apart from one broken key, everything works but - the thing reeks of ciggs. I’ve washed the keycaps and the case, but as you can see, the switches are caked with the gunk. any advice on what to do, clean (how?) or abandon, as replacing the keys is out of the question. thanks!
yes, the caps and the case, not on the keys, don’t want something to seep into them
As long as you use 90% iso and leave it unplugged for a few hours (which might honestly be overkill if you’re conservative with the iso) you don’t have to worry about damaging the electronics.
I use isopropanol regularly for cleaning flux off boards after soldering, it is fine and with 5v you wont fry it if it is still a little wet. Just clean it off good then let it dry and if you have concerns wait a little longer. You should be able to feel if there is stuff left in the keys.
not worrying about frying, more like loose gunk and water and stuff can get in the key and disrupt its operation. some dude suggested an alcohol “bath”, don’t know if they meant submerging the whole thing or just goint to town with spraying and scrubbing.
I think spraying would be a good shout. I don’t think you’ll damage the board that way.