Learning how to clean a mouse pad is an essential part of the upkeep of your PC gaming setup. A build up of grime can throw off the optical sensor in your mouse and slow down its movement, all while harboring germs. So, a clean once every few months brings a multitude of benefits.
While you can just buy a new mousepad quite regularly, as even the how to clean your computer, for instance. What's more, the following instructions aren't just for traditional mouse pads. In fact, if you're searching for how to clean your desk mat or large surface cover, applying the steps below should do the trick.
Also, cleaning your desk items doesn't just apply to gaming setups, as hygiene applies to both work and play. This is particularly true for workplaces that use a hotdesking policy, as sharing a pad contributes to the spread of germs, bacteria, and viruses. So, without further delay, here's how to clean a mouse pad.
How to clean a fabric mousepad
Just like all soft materials, fabric mouse pads accumulate filth fast, and it's not always easy to see. Thankfully, you won't need any specialist products to dispel dirt, as you've probably already got what you need in your kitchen cupboard.
Here's what you need to clean a mouse pad:
- Warm water
- Mild liquid dish soap
- A soft brush or sponge
- A towel
- Rubber gloves (optional)
Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning your mouse pad, as you might end up damaging its surface – dish soap is fine. Meanwhile, although you will need to gently scrub your mousepad, you must use a soft brush as stiff bristle brushes will damage the fabric surface.
Once you've got everything you need, you can start cleaning your mousepad:
- Fill a sink, basin, or bath tub (for a desk pad) with warm water up to in inch or two in depth
- Place your mouse pad in the water and add a pea-sized drop of dish soap (two or three for a bath)
- Gently scrub the pad surface with a soft brush or sponge
- Rinse with clean water to remove residual soap
- Pat the mat with a dry cloth, then place it face down on a towel
- Let the pad dry laid flat, in a dry, warm area for a few hours – don't be tempted to hang it up or fold it
Voila! Your mouse pad should now be clean and germ-free. Feel free to head to your sink or basin and bask at the mucky water-dwelling within – you've earned it. If you find the process hasn't fully cleaned your mat – it's worth checking how clean it looks after the initial rinse – you can simply repeat the above steps. Any mark that isn't removed after a second run probably won't be removable without a more severe process.
How to clean an RGB mousepad
It might be obvious, but do not submerge an RGB mouse pad in water. That's not to say you can't clean your flashy rectangular light show, but it involves far less liquid and some extra, precautionary steps.
Here's what you need to clean an RGB mousepad:
- Mild liquid dish soap
- A microfiber cloth
- Rubber gloves
You'll want to treat your RGB mouse pad like any other electronic device, which means not exposing it to anything other than a damp cloth. Even then, ensuring it's completely dry before plugging it back in is mandatory, as even a single drop of water could ruin its electrical bits.
- Soak a microfiber cloth in warm soapy water
- Wring the cloth out until it's damp, removing as much water as possible
- Unplug your RGB mouse pad
- Gently wipe the centre of your mouse mat and gradually make your way to the edges
- Apply less pressure near RGB strips and electronics boxes to prevent excess moisture getting close to them
- Dunk your cloth in the soapy water again and wring it out
- Repeat this wiping and cloth-refreshing process at least three times to help remove stubborn dirt
- Rinse your cloth with fresh non-soapy water, wring dry, and wipe the mat to remove soap residue
- Dry the mat with a dry cloth
- Leave the mouse pad to completely dry before plugging it back in
Your mouse pad is now ready to return to your best LED lights.
Whether you're cleaning a mousepad, an RGB mousepad, or a desk mat, we'd advise against using domestic cleaning wipes or spray cleaners, as they might contain chemicals and ingredients that could damage your mat. If you're planning on using them anyway, make sure to read the label, as it'll help you protect your wrists and mat from harm. Plus, be sure to wipe the mat down with a cloth dampened with fresh clean water to wipe away any chemical residue from the wipes or spray cleaners.
For more ways to spruce up your gaming setup, why not check out our guide to the best gaming mouse guide.