A dirty computer mat is not only an aesthetic inconvenience. Dust and stains can prevent a good grip with the mouse, reducing the responsiveness of the device in a game or work. And this, let’s face it, always has a bad effect on the user’s nervous system. So we recommend that you figure out how to clean a mouse pad correctly, especially since it is quite easy to do.
Types of rugs
The cleaning method is chosen depending on the materials from which the rug is made. There are several options:
- Plastic mat glued to a rubber base. It is of different quality. In particular, this includes the most popular and cheapest option, which is used by the majority of people. Such mats do not provide high-quality grip with the mouse. They are consumables, as they acquire a non-marketable appearance quite quickly. In many cases, they are easier to replace than to clean.
- Fabric on a rubber base. This type often includes gamer mats and gaming surfaces. This mat has a soft, comfortable cover and a durable lining made of high-quality rubber. The most comfortable and easy-to-care option. But not the cheapest.
- Leather Beautiful, pathetic, but not the most comfortable. Does not provide the mouse with perfect gliding.
- Wooden. Made of cork base. Interesting, ecological, but not recommended for people with delicate skin. For a mouse, contact with such a surface can also be dangerous.
- Glass. Durable, provides excellent gliding. However, the user’s tactile sensations may not be the most pleasant.
- Aluminum. It has the advantages and disadvantages of the previous version.
Now let’s figure out how to properly clean rugs made of these materials.
Plastic
If the dirt is minor, simply wipe the mat with a damp cloth.
For more thorough cleaning:
- Pour warm, but not hot, water into a suitable container.
- Dissolve any non-aggressive detergent in water – shampoo, laundry soap, dishwashing liquid.
- Wet the sponge and wipe the mat on both sides, removing dirt. Then dry thoroughly.
If the mat is old and falling apart, don’t bother with cleaning – just replace it. And let the new rug be of high quality and durable.
Fabric
The game mat with a fabric cover can be easily washed.
- Pour warm water (about 30 degrees) into a basin, dissolve shampoo or dishwashing detergent.
- Rinse the rug gently. Then dry.
Never use a wet mat. Do not bend or twist.
To improve the sliding of the mouse, you can use detergents with silicone. They will create a good silicone coating.
The fabric surface can be machine washed on delicate mode, without using the spin and drying functions. However, hand washing will be more reliable, especially if the rug cost you a lot. The same cleaning method is used if there is a pillow with a gel filler. Do not press too hard on the pillow to keep it in shape.
Importantly! Cheap cloth rugs can shed. Wet a small area and apply a white paper towel. If after a few minutes no traces remain, then the mat can be washed.
Leather
The owner of such a rug should get special wet wipes for the skin. You can buy them in some hardware stores. You can also use universal wet wipes.
For complex pollution, it is better to purchase special means for cleaning the skin.
In general, if you drink coffee at the computer and handle the mouse with greasy hands, then a leather mat is not for you. It is better to buy something more practical.
Wooden
Cork mats should not be soaked in water. Buy wet wipes for wooden furniture at a hardware store. Wipe the surface as it becomes dirty. You can also use alcohol wipes for the computer.
Glass
To clean this type of rug, you will need a regular windshield wiper and a microfiber cloth. Follow the instructions on the detergent.
If you don’t have a windshield wiper at hand, wash the glass in a soapy solution or wipe it with wet wipes. Then drop any alcohol-containing product on it. Gently rub with a flannel (or similar fabric) cloth.
You can simply wipe with alcohol wipes.
Aluminum
Wash such a rug in a warm soapy solution, and then rinse it in clean, cold water. Then wipe it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
You can also polish the surface for better grip with the mouse. Pour a drop of coconut or other vegetable oil and rub properly with a piece of woolen cloth.
Other recommendations
If there are LEDs or other decorative elements on the mat, it should be cleaned only with special means. Napkins for cleaning office equipment are suitable for simple ones.
Do not use aggressive detergents containing acids. They can damage the coating of your rug.
Maintain cleanliness at the workplace: do not eat at the table, handle the mouse only with clean hands. Then the mat will serve you longer, and it will be easier to take care of it.