Fixing Sticky Keys on MacBook: Easy Solutions

The problem of sticky keys usually arises from dust accumulation, liquid spills, or general wear and tear – and can affect typing speed, accuracy, and overall productivity. With that said, whether you’re a casual user or not, our guide is designed to restore your keyboard’s functionality with minimal hassle. Read on to find out! 

What Are Sticky Keys?

Sticky key issues usually fall into one of two categories: repeating keystrokes or keys that don’t come back up. On both MacBooks and Windows laptops, you might encounter keys that feel physically jammed and won’t rebound when pressed. Or some keys begin rapidly typing the same character over and over, requiring multiple presses to stop. Either way, sticky key problems can make a keyboard difficult or impossible to use, slowing you down. However, in most cases, sticky keys can be returned to normal operation – let’s teach you how!

How To Turn Off Stick Keys on MacBook

Sticky keys is an accessibility feature built into macOS designed to help users with disabilities type easily. But it can sometimes be triggered accidentally and make your keyboard repeat keystrokes. Thankfully, turning sticky keys off is simple and can be done in just a few clicks.

Here’s a quick shortcut to disabling sticky keys on a MacBook if you find it causing typing issues:

• Click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences”
• Select “Accessibility”
• Choose “Keyboard” from the options
• Uncheck the box next to “Enable Sticky Keys”
• Confirm you want to turn off Sticky Keys when prompted

And just like that, you’ve disabled sticky keys! 

Quick Tip For Mac: To ensure sticky keys is disabled, try using a keyboard shortcut (like Command-C for copy) in the usual simultaneous way. If it works as expected, Sticky Keys have been successfully turned off.

How to Fix Sticky Keys On MacBook

Fixing sticky keys on a keyboard can be a bit of a hassle, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s definitely manageable.

Option 1: Cleaning the Surface

Tools required: Soft cloth

Isopropyl alcohol (or mild cleaning solution)

Step-by-step guide: 

• Before you start, ensure your computer is turned off or detached from the keyboard if it’s external.
• Gently wipe the keys and the surrounding areas with a soft cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol or a mild cleaning solution. Avoid using too much liquid.
• After wiping, use a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
• Test the keys to see if they are still sticky. If they are, you might need to try a more thorough cleaning method.

Option 2: Using Compressed Air

Tools required: Can of compressed air

Step-by-step guide:

• Tilt the keyboard so that the sticky keys are facing downwards.
• Spray the compressed air around the sticky keys from different angles. The force of the air can dislodge particles and debris causing stickiness.
• After using the air, check if the keys’ movement has improved.

Option 3: Removing the Keycaps

Tools required: Keycap puller (or a small flat tool like a screwdriver)

Cleaning solution and cloth

Step-by-step guide:

• Carefully use the keycap puller to remove the keys. If you’re using a flat tool, gently pry up the edges of the keycaps.
• Use a cloth dampened with a cleaning solution to wipe under the keycaps.
• Separately, clean the removed keycaps.
• Make sure everything is dry before reattaching the keycaps.

Additional Tips:

• Before attempting to remove keycaps or apply cleaning solutions, you need to check the manufacturer’s guidelines, especially for MacBooks.
• Use minimal force when removing keycaps and cleaning around delicate components.
• Regularly cleaning your keyboard can prevent the keys from getting stuck – so you should make that a habit. 

How To Fix Sticky Keys Through Software Settings 

• Click on the Apple logo at the top left corner of your screen, and select “System Preferences.”
• In the System Preferences window, click on “Accessibility.”
• Within the Accessibility options, click on “Keyboard” from the list on the left.
• Find the option for “Enable Sticky Keys” and uncheck the box. 
• Also, uncheck the option “Press the Shift key five times to turn Sticky Keys on or off” to prevent accidental activation.
• Your changes are saved automatically. Close the window to finish.

And that’s about it! 

5 Things To Avoid When Fixing A Sticky Key

When fixing a sticky key on your keyboard, it’s very important that you do it carefully. A keyboard is a surprisingly delicate part of your computer – (trust us on this). So, here’s a friendly guide on what to avoid so you can get those keys unstuck without damaging your keyboard.

1. Avoid Excessive Force

Gentle is the way:  When prying off keycaps or pressing down on keys, use a gentle touch. Forcing the keys can break them or damage the mechanisms underneath.

Use the Right Tools: If you’re removing keycaps, use a proper keycap puller or a flat, thin tool. Using bulky or sharp objects can damage the keys or the keyboard.

2. Avoid Too Much Liquid

Damp, Not Wet: If you’re cleaning with a liquid solution, make sure your cloth is damp, not dripping wet. Excess liquid can seep into the keyboard and damage the electronics.

Choose the Right Cleaner: Use isopropyl alcohol or a mild cleaning solution. Harsh chemicals can damage the key’s surface or the keyboard’s circuitry.

3. Avoid Rushing the Process

Take Your Time: If you rush, you might miss spots that need cleaning or improperly reassemble the keys, leading to more issues.

Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, give enough time for the keyboard to dry completely before reassembling or powering up your device.

4. Avoid Ignoring Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Check the Manual: Different keyboards have different designs. What works for one might not work for another. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.

5. Avoid Using Inappropriate Tools

No Sharp Objects: Avoid using anything sharp or metallic that could scratch the keys or the keyboard surface.

Be Wary of DIY Fixes: While some DIY solutions can be helpful, others might be more harmful than beneficial. You need to stick to proven methods and tools.