How To Clean A Mouse Pad Correctly And Can It Be Washed + Photos And Videos

2024 Author: Bailey Albertson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-17 22:26

How to clean your favorite mouse pad

A mouse pad is a common accessory on a computer desk. Correctly selected, it makes the mouse slide faster, protects the tabletop from abrasion. The rug gets dirty over time. It is a pity to throw it out because of the dirt, because with good care it will last a long time. How to properly clean or wash my mouse pad?

The history of the first mouse stands

The term "mouse pad" appeared in 1983, and the accessory itself a little earlier. According to the New York Times, its inventor is the founder of the Moustrak company, Bob McDermand. He himself, however, did not consider himself as such, claiming that he had already heard about such ideas somewhere.

Modern models of rugs are made from different materials.

Today, rugs are made from different materials:

• plastic;
• glass;
• aluminum;
• rubber;
• bung;
• the cloth.

Since the mouse pad is used quite extensively, it may leave traces of sweat and grease from the user's hands. You can get rid of them by cleaning.

How to properly clean your mouse pad

The recommendations for how to wash your mouse pad will vary depending on the material it is made from. The general rule for all products is not to machine wash. In the best case, this type of care will shorten the service life by 3-4 times, in the worst case, you will have to throw out the mat.

Caring for your plastic product

Plastic rugs are the most affordable, which cannot but affect their quality. They do not last long, since the top layer is cracked. Another disadvantage of such a product is the rustling while moving the mouse.

Plastic rugs are the cheapest and easiest to clean

Of the advantages, ease of care can be noted. If your plastic mat doesn't have a rubber backing, just rinse it in warm water and detergent. If there is a rubber backing, let the garment dry well after washing.

How to clean a cloth or rag rug

Cloth (cloth, rag) mats do not provide accurate movements, but the mouse glides over them softer. Such products are preferred by most users, as they are inexpensive and easy to maintain.

For cleaning you need:

• warm water;
• mild shampoo. Better if it comes with silicone. The shampoo will leave an invisible film on the surface and the mouse will glide better;
• brush with medium bristles.

The mouse pad in the form of a carpet is quite in line with modern trends

Procedure.

1. Dampen the rug with warm water.
2. Pour in some shampoo and rub gently over the entire surface until lather forms.
3. Take a brush and clean the mat with gentle circular motions.
4. Rinse off the foam. Repeat the procedure if necessary.
5. Allow the mat to dry flat on a flat surface for at least 24 hours.

Cleaning the Razer rag play mat - video

How to wash a product with a gel filler

Most gel-filled mats have a cushion that supports the arm and relieves stress on the joints of the hand. Such devices are suitable for those who work at the computer all day.

The pad with wrist pad relieves stress on the joints of the hands when working

The care rules for these rugs are almost the same as for fabric products with a rubberized base. The main difference is that the gel pad should not be pressed hard so that it does not deform.

How to clean dirt from a rubber or cork mat

Taking care of your rubber mat is extremely simple: wash it with warm water and detergent and dry it.

The cork mat is specific - it is rigid, while providing easy sliding of the mouse. Such a product must not be immersed in water. As it gets dirty, wipe it with a damp cloth and office equipment cleaner.

The cork mat cannot be washed with water

Features of caring for products made of non-standard materials

1. A mouse pad can also be a gadget with an electronic filling inside. Of course, you cannot wash it. For cleaning, use only special napkins or office equipment sprays.
2. Glass mats can be wiped clean with ammonia. It removes dirt and leaves no streaks on the surface.
3. Natural leather and bamboo rugs are afraid of water. They can swell, lose their shape. You only need to clean them with special products and napkins.
4. The aluminum mat can be wiped with a cloth dampened with warm water.
5. Use soapy water to clean the microfiber mat. Rinse the product in it and lay to dry without twisting.

Mouse pads made of unusual materials - gallery

A leather rug is more of a stylish accessory than a faithful assistant

Despite the apparent fragility, glass rugs can last for years

Microfiber mat is used not only as a mouse stand, but also as a monitor cleaner

Reversible mouse pads

For users with high demands, manufacturers have released double-sided rugs. They can be used for various types of computer games: smooth surface for speed, rough surface for high accuracy. Care for a double-sided rug should be carried out taking into account the type of surface.

1. Clean the smooth surface with damp wipes about once a month.
2. For stubborn dirt, wash it with a sponge and soapy water, then wipe the surface with a cotton pad moistened with alcohol.

The rough part is more demanding to maintain. You will need a special brush, the bristle of which is directed to one side.

1. Using gentle strokes in one direction, brush away dust and dirt.
2. If it is heavily soiled, clean it carefully. Apply a little lather to your hands and gently wipe the nap.
3. Remove soap residue with a damp cloth.

Reversible mat with different types of surfaces can be used for different types of computer games

How to wash a mouse pad in the bathroom - video

User reviews on how to wash mouse pads

Remember that the rug tends to get dirty by absorbing sweat and grease from your hands. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of it periodically. When cleaning, take into account the material of the product and its characteristics. Remove dirt correctly, then your favorite mouse pad will serve you for more than one year.