How to Clean Your Computer's Ball Mouse so It Runs Smoothly

computer mouse

Not all of us have upgraded to the new laser computer mouses ( mice?). We still use the older ball type computer mouse.

Well, after trying to explain to my sister-in-law how to clean hers via the telephone, I decided to write this article.

If your ball type mouse is sluggish or sticking it is probably dirty.

It only takes a few minutes of your time to clean it for a smooth running mouse.

I guess you could call this computer housekeeping or computer maintenance!

Things You'll Need

• Your ball type mouse
• a few q-tips
• rubbing alcohol
• a small rag or kleenex.

Instructions

1. 

   Turn your ball mouse upside down as shown ot the photo of mine. See the round cover with the little arrows? Turn that entire round cover the opposite direction of the arrows to loosen and remove the cover.

   Be careful because nothing but the cover is holding the ball in place and it can easily roll away if you are not careful.

2. 

   OK, now with the cover off and the ball out of the mouse, look inside and you should see three small rollers. Two of the rollere are long and skinny and one is short and thicker.

   Dampen the end of a q-tip with a little rubbing alcohol. Carefully clean all three of the rollers with the q-tip. You may need to use several q-tips redampened with the rubbing alcohol.

   Sometimes little strings or pieces of lint wrap around the rollers and take a little more effort to remove.

3. 

   Once the rollers are clean, use the small rag or kleenex to wipe out the inside area that holds the ball, the ball itself and any parts or the mouse that looks soiled, especially the bottom.

   Wipe down your mouse pad and let dry.

   Make sure all areas are dry before going on to the next step.

4. Hold the mouse upside down, place the ball inside of the mouse and replace the cover. Tighten the cover in the direction of the arrows.

   Make sure the cover is on tight.

   Viola!! The mouse you thought was a goner is now running smoothly!

Tips & Warnings

• It is a good idea to clean the mouse at least once a month to prevent buildup around the rollers

• Your mouse ball will stay cleaner if you wipe down your mouse pad after each time you use your computer.