How to Clean a Mousepad

Although a mouse pad allows you to achieve greater speed, precision and comfort while doing computer work, it is often overlooked and thus neglected. When was the last time you cleaned your mouse pad? Dead skin cells, dust, dirt and oil easily collect on this smooth, rolling surface, interfering with mouse performance. Read on for cleaning instructions, and enjoy even more speed, precision and comfort than before.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Place the mouse pad on a flat, non-wood surface away from its computer.

2. Determine what material comprises the mouse pad. Generally, the bottom will be made of rubber composites and the top is fabric.

3. Apply a dime-sized dollop of mild shampoo to a fabric-topped mouse pad using a wet washcloth and gently work it over the entire surface. For hard-surface mouse pads (i.e., those with plastic tops), apply a dime-sized dollop of shampoo or dish soap, or spray a similar amount of general household cleaner and work it over the entire surface using a wet sponge.

4. Rinse the cleanser from the mouse pad using warm water. Continue to steadily apply the water until all foam and bubbles have disappeared.

5. Pat the mouse pad with a dry washcloth until dry. Let the mouse pad sit out to dry away from the computer until all saturation has evaporated. Do not place a wet mouse pad on wooden furniture or back near the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Less is more. Do not overdo the application of cleaning products, as they can build up and have the same effect as the initial pollutants.
• If you continue to encounter mouse problems after cleaning the mouse pad, look into purchasing a replacement. Also, consider that the mouse itself may need a cleaning to improve roller function.