What's the best way to do this?

Question

I want to take very old batteries out of keyboard. Problem is it looks like they've leaked battery acid or some sort of material. What do you think it is and what is the safest way I should take these batteries out?

Answer 1

Exactly what it is, leaked electrolytic paste.  It's not dangerous like you see in the old sci-fi movies, but it can cause irritation to skin after a few minutes of contact.  Better to use those household cleaning gloves.  Take the batteries out and throw them away, or put them in a recycling system if you have one.

If they're alkaline batteries, use vinegar or lemon juice to clean up the leakage.  If they're old, OLD batteries, use banking soda, like Arm & Hammer.  In either case, use Q-Tips or an old toothbrush to scrub the area clean, along with paper towels towels to wipe up any excess.  Never again use the toothbrush for personal hygiene, no matter how well you think you've cleaned it.  And that's about all there is to it.  Not hard at all, really.