No, you can't lubricate blue switches with a lubricant designed for lines.
No, you can't lubricate blue switches with a lubricant designed for lines.
I'm really panicking right now because of all the acetone I breathed while trying to remove the Vaseline from the key switches. I took them apart, left them in acetone, and even tried boiling water, but nothing worked. The clicking sound is missing, and I don't know what to do next.
The purpose of lubricating a switch is to reduce noise, which is what I understood. What were your expectations? You might consider using 95% or higher isopropyl alcohol. Boiling water wasn’t a good choice because it could melt the plastic. Acetone can also affect certain plastics and rubbers in a similar way.
Vaseline and petroleum jelly are among the worst choices for lubricating switches. They can damage plastic over time and are extremely difficult to remove. It’s safer to replace the switches altogether. Many users rely on uninformed TikTok tips, sharing “tech tips” without understanding the risks. If you’re serious about removing it, use a high concentration of isopropyl alcohol—it might help—but be aware of the heat and acetone effects. These methods often cause lasting damage, making switches unresponsive or faulty. For standard switches like Gateron or Cherry MX, they’re usually inexpensive enough to replace without much hassle. You can also opt for pre-lubed switches or a proper recommended lubricant. I’ve personally worked with Gateron Yellows and found them to be among the smoothest, though not completely silent or extremely clicky.
I mentioned 95% isopropyl. It seems there was a mix-up already—things are definitely off now. You may have to swap out all the switches.
I've identified a minor adjustment by removing the stem from its original position and smoothing the area between the two sides when the keys are pressed. This helps prevent the two plates from colliding and producing the clicking noise. Additionally, the copper plate inside the switch appears to absorb the sound due to a small amount of vaseline residue on it; it's difficult to insert a paper towel into there.
Begin by separating the copper sheets within the switch. Place them inside a container filled with isopropyl alcohol. Allow them to dry for some time. Then, use a soft-bristled brush dipped in water to gently clean each plate. If you have a protective glove suitable for IPA, brush them while fully submerged. Caution: improper handling may warp or break the plates, preventing proper operation. Repeat the process until everything is clear. For hard-to-reach areas, consider crafting a custom tool or vigorously swishing the brushes in the alcohol solution. Remember: always wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated space.