What is a washable keyboard?
A washable keyboard is specifically designed to withstand regular cleaning and disinfection without compromising performance. Unlike conventional keyboards, washable models feature sealed electronics that protect against water, dust, and other contaminants, allowing them to be safely wiped, sprayed, rinsed, or washed as part of routine hygiene procedures.
While wipeable keyboards are designed for surface cleaning and disinfection, fully washable keyboards offer a higher level of protection. Their sealed construction allows for more thorough cleaning methods, including rinsing and washing, making them particularly suitable for environments with strict hygiene requirements.
Depending on the model, washable keyboards can offer varying levels of protection, measured by internationally recognised IP ratings. All our keyboards provide at least IP65 protection, while selected models achieve IP68 certification for maximum resistance during intensive cleaning processes.
Why choose a cleanable keyboard?
Cleanable keyboards make it easier to maintain hygienic workstations without interrupting daily workflows. Their design allows for quick and effective disinfection between users, patients, or shifts, helping organisations follow hygiene protocols and reduce risk of contamination.
Built for demanding environments, washable keyboards are designed to withstand frequent cleaning and exposure to approved disinfectants. The result is a durable and reliable input device that supports infection prevention and delivers consistent performance day after day.
In which environments are washable keyboards used?
Our washable keyboards are trusted wherever hygiene, safety, and reliability are essential. From healthcare and laboratories to food production and industrial workplaces, they help organisations maintain clean workstations while supporting daily operational requirements.
In hospitals, GP practices, and dental clinics, washable keyboards support infection prevention by enabling fast and effective disinfection between patients and procedures. Laboratories benefit from hygienic input devices that help reduce contamination risks in sensitive testing environments.
Food and pharmaceutical manufacturers rely on washable keyboards to support compliance with strict hygiene standards and cleaning protocols. In warehouses and industrial settings, their durable construction helps ensure reliable performance despite dust, dirt, and frequent cleaning.
Washable keyboards are also widely used in vehicles, mobile workstations, and medical OEM applications, where robust, easy-to-clean input devices are required for consistent day-to-day operation.
What should you consider when buying a washable keyboard?
Choosing the right washable keyboard depends on your environment and cleaning requirements. One of the most important factors is the IP rating, which indicates how well the keyboard is protected against dust and water. For environments with frequent cleaning or exposure to liquids, keyboards with IP65 to IP68 protection offer a high level of resistance.
If the keyboard will be used in healthcare, laboratories, or other hygiene critical settings, it is also important to consider relevant medical certifications and compliance requirements.
Compatibility is also a key factor. Make sure the keyboard works with your operating system and setup, whether you require Mac or Windows compatibility, or wireless connectivity.
Finally, consider the materials and overall durability of the keyboard. High-quality silicone surfaces, sealed housings, and resistance to common disinfectants ensure that the keyboard can withstand regular cleaning without affecting performance.
Choosing a model that fits your specific environment, and cleaning protocols will help ensure long-term reliability and hygiene compliance.
Certifications and quality standards for washable keyboards
Certifications and quality standards play an important role when selecting a washable keyboard for professional environments. They confirm that the device meets strict requirements for safety, hygiene, and reliability, particularly in healthcare, laboratories, and other regulated industries.
Man & Machine keyboards comply with key international standards, ensuring safe operation and legal market access:
- CE/UKCA: Required for sales in Europe and Great Britain, confirming that the product meets applicable safety, health, and environmental regulations.
- IP rating: Indicates the level of protection against dust and water ingress, ensuring the keyboard can withstand frequent cleaning.
- EN 60601: A medical electrical equipment standard that ensures electromagnetic compatibility, reducing the risk of interference with sensitive medical devices.
- RoHS: Limits the use of hazardous substances in electronic components, supporting safer electronics and environmental protection.
- REACH: Regulates chemicals used in products and restricts substances of very high concern in electronic equipment.
Download certificates and other documentation
Why choose Man & Machine for washable keyboards?
For over 40 years, Man & Machine has been developing specialised hardware solutions for environments where hygiene, safety, and reliability are essential. From healthcare and laboratories to food production and industrial workplaces, our washable keyboards are designed to support infection prevention, patient safety, and efficient daily workflows.
We offer a wide range of washable keyboard solutions to suit different cleaning requirements and application. Our fully sealed silicone keyboards, including the Really Cool and Slim Cool series, provide IP68 protection and can be immersed in disinfecting fluids for extended periods of time. For added convenience, both ranges are available with integrated touchpads.
For environments that require regular surface disinfection, the Its Cool and Very Cool series combine a familiar keyboard experience with a hygienic design. Models such as the Its Cool Flat, Very Cool Flat, and Y Cool feature removable silicone covers that can be autoclaved, while the Its Cool Flat Wireless offers the flexibility of a cable-free workspace without compromising hygiene.
All fully sealed silicone keyboards are manufactured at our headquarters in Maryland, USA, where our ISO 9001:2015-certified facility combines engineering expertise, in-house production, and rigorous quality standards. In addition to high-quality products, we provide dedicated support, expert advice, and customisation options to help B2B customers find the right solution for their environment.
Request advice or a quote for washable keyboards
Need help finding the right washable keyboard?
Whether you are looking for a keyboard for healthcare, laboratory, industrial, or production environments, our team is here to help. Contact us for expert advice, product recommendations, or a tailored quotation based on your specific requirements.
We are happy to assist by phone or through our contact form and help you find the hygienic keyboard solution that best fits your environment and workflow.
