How to Fix a Spacebar: Quick & Easy Guide for Windows & Mac

Try one of these easy fixes if your spacebar suddenly stops working

Co-authored by Hannah Dillon

Last Updated: August 28, 2024 Fact Checked

Has your spacebar suddenly stopped working? This is a frustrating issue, especially if you use your computer for work, school, or fun. In this article we'll go over all the ways you can try to fix your spacebar, including cleaning it, fixing keyboard drivers, and more.

Reasons Your Spacebar Isn't Working

The spacebar on your computer or laptop may not be working because the device cannot recognize the key. This can happen when the rubber dome or switch holding the key in place is dirty or damaged.

1

Remove Dust From the Spacebar

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Remove debris from under the keys on your keyboard. Dust in your keyboard is one of the most common reasons behind a spacebar that doesn't work. To clean under the spacebar and remove dust, use a can of compressed air. Position the nozzle under and around the key and spray, using the air to dislodge dirt, crumbs, or other debris that could be under there.
- Don't turn the can of compressed air upside down and spray. This will cause the propellant to be sprayed out of the can, which could damage your keyboard. This propellant is also very cold, and could cause injury.

2

Clean the Spacebar & Switches

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Remove the spacebar keycap and clean underneath it with isopropyl alcohol. Another common reason spacebars stop working is sticky residue from spilling liquid on your keyboard. Whether you have a mechanical keyboard or membrane keyboard, you can clean under the spacebar keycap by removing it.
- Unplug, disconnect, or turn off your keyboard before continuing.
- Use a keycap puller, paper clip, or screwdriver to gently pry the spacebar keycap from the keyboard.
- Dip a cotton swab in 70% or higher isopropyl alcohol (though 99% isopropyl alcohol is recommended). The cotton swab should be saturated but not dripping wet.
- Clean up any residue under the spacebar with the dampened swab. Also be sure to clean the underside of the spacebar keycap and the switches (if you have a mechanical keyboard).
  - If the switches are very dirty, take a fresh cotton swab and dip it in the isopropyl alcohol. Press the tip of the swab into the switch, pushing up and down on it, so the excess alcohol flows into the switch to loosen and dissolve any residue.
- Allow the keyboard to dry for a few hours to a day before reassembling it and attempting to use it again. To reattach the spacebar, simply press the keycap back into place.