Your mouse pad likely gets a lot of use on a daily basis. Over time, oils from your hand, dust, dirt, and grime can build up on the surface, affecting its glide and potentially transferring germs back to your hand. That’s why it’s important to clean your mouse pad regularly. Here’s how to do it properly for both cloth and hard surface mouse pads.
Table of Contents
Supplies You’ll Need
- Dish soap or gentle laundry detergent
- Water
- Soft-bristle toothbrush or cleaning brush
- Microfiber cloth
- Towel
Cleaning a Cloth Mouse Pad
Cloth mouse pads have a fabric surface that tends to absorb oils and attract dirt more easily than hard pads. Follow these steps to clean cloth pads:
1. Remove Loose Debris
Turn the mouse pad over and gently shake it to dislodge any crumbs or dust on the surface. You can also use a lint roller to remove pet hair, lint, etc.
2. Create a Cleaning Solution
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a small squirt of dish soap or gentle laundry detergent. The soap helps lift grease and dirt from the fabric.
3. Scrub the Surface
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush or other gentle scrub brush to work the cleaning solution into the pad’s surface. Gently scrub in a circular motion to lift dirt from the crevices in the fabric weave. Pay special attention to dirty areas.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse the pad under cool running water until the water runs clear. This removes all traces of soap from the fabric.
5. Air Dry
Lay the mouse pad flat on top of a dry towel or hang it to air dry completely before using again. Don’t place it in direct sunlight, which can fade fabrics over time.
Cleaning a Hard Surface Mouse Pad
Hard mouse pads made of plastic, metal, or glass clean up more easily than fabric pads since debris doesn’t get lodged in the smooth surface. Here’s how to clean them:
1. Dust the Surface
Turn the pad upside down and gently shake it to dislodge dust and debris. You can also use a lint roller or microfiber cloth to dust the surface.
2. Mix Cleaner
Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle or bowl. Avoid using harsh cleaners, which could damage the pad’s surface over time.
3. Wipe Down
Dip a soft microfiber cloth in the cleaning solution and wring it out so it’s just damp. Gently wipe down the entire surface of the mouse pad until it’s clean. For stubborn spots, let the cleaner soak in for 30 seconds before wiping.
4. Dry Completely
Use a fresh, dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface dry. Allow it to finish air drying before placing your mouse back on it.
Maintenance Tips
- Give your mouse pad a quick wipe down once a week to prevent heavy buildup between deeper cleanings.
- Wash your hands before extended computer use sessions to limit oil transfer to the pad.
- Every 3-4 months, do a thorough soap and water cleaning as described above.
- Look for mouse pads with spill-resistant or waterproof surfaces if you tend to eat and drink at your desk. They’ll be easier to keep clean long-term.
- Rotate through 2 mouse pads so you always have a clean one handy while the other is drying from washing.
- Replace worn, heavily stained, or damaged mouse pads so you always have an optimal mousing surface.
With regular easy cleanings, you can keep your mouse pad looking like new for optimal glide and hygiene. Just be sure to use gentle cleaning methods instead of throwing it in the washing machine, which can damage many mouse pads. With the proper care, most quality mouse pads should last 1-2 years or longer.
Common Questions
What is the best way to dry a mouse pad?
Simply lay it flat or hang it up and allow it to completely air dry before using it again. Don’t use direct heat sources.
Can I put my mouse pad in the washing machine?
It’s not recommended. The agitation and heat from washing machines, especially on hot cycles, can damage many mouse pads.
How do I get rid of stubborn stains?
For tough grease, dirt, or ink stains, try letting the cleaning solution soak for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing. This gives the soap time to lift the pigment from the fibers or surface.
What cleaning solutions should I avoid?
Steer clear of harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, acetone, etc. Stick to gentle dish soap or laundry detergent in warm water. Acids and abrasives can damage the pad’s surface.
Summary
- Clean cloth and hard surface mouse pads regularly to prevent dirt and oil buildup
- Use a gentle cleaning solution of warm water and mild dish soap/detergent
- Gently scrub stains with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly after cleaning
- Allow mouse pads to completely air dry before use to prevent moisture damage
- Clean gently to avoid fraying cloth pads or dulling hard pad surfaces
Keeping your mouse pad clean improves glide and tracking for optimal cursor control. It also helps eliminate germs on this frequenty touched computer accessory. Follow these cleaning tips and your mouse pad will help you work and play in comfort for years to come.
