ABS keycaps’ notorious "greasy shine" can make your keyboard look like it survived a fryer battle. Don’t replace them just yet – try these proven fixes first.

How: Dip a microfiber cloth in 70% isopropyl alcohol, gently scrub keycaps.
Why: Dissolves oils without damaging ABS plastic.
Pro Tip: Avoid soaking – ABS warps at 60°C+ temperatures.

How: Apply non-gel toothpaste to a soft brush, buff in circular motions.
Why: Mild abrasives restore micro-texture for 2-3 weeks.
Warning: Overuse thins the plastic – limit to monthly use.

How: Lightly spray automotive matte clear coat (e.g., Rust-Oleum) on cleaned keycaps.
Why: Adds scratch-resistant layer with factory-like texture.
Caution: Mask stems and test on one keycap first.

How: Dampen a melamine foam sponge (Mr. Clean), gently rub shiny areas.
Why: Removes oxidized plastic layer, revealing fresh surface underneath.
Limit: Use sparingly – removes ~0.1mm plastic per session.

How: Wet-sand with 2000-grit sandpaper, finish with polishing compound.
Why: Aggressive but effective for heavily worn keycaps.
Risk: Uneven sanding may cause "bald spots".

While these hacks work temporarily, custom PBT keycaps solve the grease war permanently:

Why PBT Wins:

• Oil Resistance: Denser molecular structure repels skin oils.
• Matte Forever: Textured surface stays grit-free even after 1M+ keystrokes.
• Heat Tolerance: Withstands 220°C vs ABS’s 105°C – no warping during cleaning.
• Color Stability: Dye-sublimated legends won’t fade like ABS’s laser etching.

Bonus: Many custom keycaps brands now offer PBT options with:

• RGB-friendly semi-translucent variants
• Textured artisan designs for grip
• Pre-lubricated stems for smoother presses