Clean your computer mouse properly, remove dust, increase lifespan

Dirt and sweat can reduce the sensitivity and lifespan of your mouse. Regularly cleaning your mouse not only helps it run more smoothly but also protects the user's health. Here are detailed instructions for each type of mouse.

Table of Contents:
1. For ball mouse
2. For wired optical mouse
3. For wireless mouse

Why do we need to clean our computer mouse regularly?

- A dirty mouse can affect performance.
- Bacteria that accumulate on the surface of the mouse can be harmful to your health.
- Dust can jam buttons or reduce optical accuracy.
- A clean mouse increases durability and reduces breakdowns.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING COMPUTER MOUSE

1. For ball mouse

Step 1 : Remove the ball: gently press the bottom cover and turn counterclockwise to remove the ball from the mouse.
Step 2 : Wash the ball with soapy water and dry.

Step 3 : Use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol to clean the scroll bars inside the mouse. If there are hard objects stuck to them, use your fingernail or a sharp object to pry them off (be careful to pry gently to avoid scratching the scroll bars).
Step 4 : Clean the bottom surface of the mouse and the carpet or surface the mouse comes into contact with.
Step 5 : Attach the ball to the mouse and turn it clockwise.

2. For wired optical mouse

Cleaning an optical mouse is simpler, just use a cotton swab to clean or use a spray bottle to clean the optical eye of the mouse, then wipe the bottom and contact surface of the mouse and you're done.

3. For wireless mouse

If you use a Bluetooth mouse or a wireless mouse, remember to replace the battery regularly. When cleaning a wireless mouse, you need to unplug the USB plug from the computer, then remove the battery and leave it in a dry place, away from moisture. Use an alcohol wipe to clean the mouse (do not wipe the battery slot and USB plug). Then wait for it to dry and use it.

When using a computer mouse for a long time, dust can accumulate, affecting the sensitivity and lifespan of the device. Therefore, periodic cleaning of the mouse is necessary to keep the mouse working stably and durably.

If your mouse shows signs of stuck buttons or slow movement, you can refer to the instructions  on how to properly clean your computer  to quickly fix it.

Micah Soto

Update 23 February 2025