got his used low-profile keyboard with cherry mx red switches. apart from one broken key, everything works but - the thing reeks of ciggs. I’ve washed the keycaps and the case, but as you can see, the switches are caked with the gunk. any advice on what to do, clean (how?) or abandon, as replacing the keys is out of the question. thanks!
Look into TSP (trisodium phosphate) to get rid of cigarette tar. You can get it at the hardware store, likely near the paint solvents.
what do I do with the thing, apply and wipe, scrub, dunk?
I’d start with apply and wipe, then maybe a soft bristle toothbrush if you need it.