Model M keycaps have weird dirt on them that I can't get off

[green-squid]

Yesterday I washed the keycaps from the M and turns out, some of them have a weird type of dirt that I can't get off! It's forse on some than others. What should I do? Ultrasonic cleanimg is not an option. Should I use bleach?

[Mattr567]

Use baking soda, it's in the texture.

Turn the baking soda into a paste and scrub.

[green-squid]

Okay! We have that at home! Thank you!

[wobbled]

Failing that use one of those magic erasers, I'd imagine they do essentially the same thing though

[snoopy]

I had good results with dental cleaning tablets.

[digital_matthew]

You can also try a citrus based cleaner like Goo Gone. Works for me.

[polemon]

Isopropyl alcohol didn't help?

[fohat]

I use powdered laundry detergent and hot water. Bad specimens need maybe a bit of scrubbing with a toothbrush.

[FXT]

I agree with using denture cleaning tablets. Works really well.

[green-squid]

Baking soda worked great! I will post pictures once I'm done with everything. Thank you Mattr!

[JP!]

I'll add Oxiclean to the list.

[c3rt]

I had this exact same problem with my Model M. Tried bleach and alcohol already and they both didn't work :/
OP said baking soda worked, is there a specific concentration or solution that I have to use? Thanks.

[green-squid]

I had this exact same problem with my Model M. Tried bleach and alcohol already and they both didn't work :/
OP said baking soda worked, is there a specific concentration or solution that I have to use? Thanks.

nah, just whatever you find at home.

[fohat]

Powdered laundry detergent (+ Oxi-clean for more power) is the way to go. If soaking with a hot water solution isn't enough, a light scrub with a toothbrush (with or without a bit of powder on it) will almost always do the job.

Bleach and alcohol are seldom the answer, although alcohol is good for some inks.