Should the Surface keyboard smell like mothballs?

Question

I just received my new Surface direct from Microsoft, and it was a bundle that included a Surface keyboard. Upon opening the keyboard box, all I could smell was mothballs. It is definitely coming from the keyboard. It's strong. It's different from the chemical smell you get from some packaged products involving fabrics. I know that's usually the "new fabric smell" but I've never heard of it ever being mothballs. Is this normal?

Answer 1

Hi NicolleLeney,

Thank you for reaching Microsoft Community.

Was the box for the typecover still sealed when you received it?

Have you tried cleaning the typecover? See: Clean and care for your Surface (microsoft.com) for tips.

I'm not sure what should be the smell of the typecover out of the box but you may contact our online Microsoft Store support for further assistance and for options available in case you need to have it replaced due to the strong smell. See: Contact Microsoft Store Support.

We also welcome our other Community members who may have a similar experience to share here.

Answer 2

This is definitely not normal. If it were me, I'd return it for full refund and repurchase. I've never encountered a typecover that smelled at all. Contact Microsoft Store Support.