In this guide we're going to look at how to clean a mouse pad, using a few different methods and techniques to get the best finish possible.
We spend an awful lot of time at our mouse pads, and these surfaces can often pick up all sorts of dirt and grime due to their heavy usage.
Regardless of the materials they use and how well they are looked after, mouse pads can get grimy very quickly and make your desk look very untidy and unprofessional, as well as affecting how well your mouse can move on the surface.
Can you wash a mouse pad?
The first thing you should do is remove any loose debris from the pad before cleaning it. This will prevent dust getting into the pad's fibers and causing them to become dirty again. Use a mini crumb vacuum to clean any crumbs or dust.
You'll also need some kind of cleaning solution that won't damage the material or leave streaks behind.
The most common type of cleaner used for cleaning mouse pads is alcohol-based, but there are other options available too.
If you don't have any cleaning solutions in the house, then simply use warm water with a bit of dish soap added to it.
If you want to be really thorough about cleaning your mouse pad, you could try using a commercial product designed specifically for this purpose .
These tend to be more expensive than regular household cleaners though, so if you're not sure whether you'd like to invest in one, it might be better to stick with what you know works.
The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
How often should you clean a mouse pad?
The first thing to consider is whether it's worth cleaning your mouse pad at all. If you don't use it regularly, then it may not really need cleaning.
However, if your mouse pad is getting used daily, it will quickly develop grime and dust, as well as watermarks and other issues that can ruin its surface and make your desk look untidy.
Cleaning your mouse pad at least weekly is best in these circumstances to avoid causing issues.
This will prevent any build-up of dust and grime from getting too far into the fibers of the pad itself.
What should you clean your mouse pad with?
A simple way to clean a mouse pad is to simply wash it with dishwashing liquid.
This method works really well if you don't mind getting some soap into your mouse pad, but it's not ideal if your pad is made of materials that aren't suitable for this kind of washing.
If you want to keep your mouse pad looking pristine, it's important to rinse it thoroughly before cleaning. This will remove any dust particles or debris from the pad.
Another option is to use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess dirt and grime without totally submerging or swamping the mouse pad.
How can you clean it without water?
If you want to avoid water due to certain materials, try using an alcohol wipe, as this will dissolve very quickly and also has disinfectant properties.
The easiest way to clean a mouse pad is to simply leave it to air dry. This will take a day or two depending on the materials, but if you don't mind waiting then this is the method to go for.
If you want to speed things up, you can use a hairdryer to blow hot air onto the pad or place the pad in an airing cupboard.
Never put your mouse pad into a tumble dryer however as this will likely damage and wear out the surfaces more quickly.
The reverse side of a mouse pad will usually be made from some sort of fabric or rubberized material, which means it's easy to spot any stains or marks on the underside.
How to clean a gel filled mouse pad?
We recommend using shampoo as the cleaning agent as it'll be much more gentle on your mousepad than laundry detergent or dishwashing soap. Apply a small amount to your damp microfiber cloth and begin scrubbing away at problem areas.
How to clean an RGB or wired mouse pad
RGB or wired mouse pads are becoming much more common, and naturally these pads can't be submerged or this will damage them considerably.
Instead, use alcohol wipes and microfiber cloths to keep your electronic mouse pad in top shape.
Mouse pads aren't exactly cheap, so it's worth investing in a good quality one that lasts.
But ensuring that you get the best out of your pad also means taking good care of it, so use these tips to ensure your pad stays in pristine shape for longer and keeps your surfing smooth.