How to Clean a Ball Computer Mouse

Taking proper care of computer components can help extend the life of your computer. One component that many people overlook is the mouse. If your mouse isn't tracking right take a few minutes to clean the device. You will be amazed at how much better it works after the cleaning.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer mouse (the type with the rolling ball on the bottom)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls
• Safety pin
• Cotton swabs

Cleaning a Mouse

1. Unplug the mouse from the computer unit. This will not only make it safer to clean the device, it will also make it easier to maneuver.

2. Turn the mouse upside down so that the ball is facing upward.

3. Rotate the compartment holding the ball in place in a counterclockwise motion. The compartment should then lift off allowing you access to the ball.

4. Remove the ball from the mouse and clean using a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. Set the ball aside for the time being

5. Using a cotton swab, gently clean the area inside the mouse to remove any dirt and dust that may have accumulated.

6. Clean the crevices on the topside of the mouse using the tip of the safety pin. Be sure to pay special attention to the ridge around the edge of the mouse.

7. Soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and use it to clean the outside of the mouse thoroughly. This will help kill the germs living on the surface of the component.

8. Allow the ball and the mouse to dry thoroughly. This should only take a few minutes.

9. Drop the ball back into the compartment and place the compartment cover back on the mouse and secure the ball by turning the cover clockwise.

10. Plug the mouse back into the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Rubbing alcohol works better at cleaning computer components than most detergents or cleaners. Because it evaporates quickly it is less likely to do harm to the pieces of the computer.