How to clean a computer mouse

One of the most essential parts of a computer that cannot be done with out is the mouse. This tiny oval shaped device, resembling a mouse in real, is capable of making the computer to function as per the instruction of the user, with the command of a few clicks only. Sometimes, the conventional mouse is also attached with laptops in order to make them more user friendly for people who find it difficult to operate the touch pad mouse. Conventional mouse is of two types, the one with a rubber ball affixed into the slot at the bottom, which reads the movement in correspondence to 'X' axis and 'Y' axis and the other is the optical mouse, where the proceedings are carried on by means of infrared technology. The most common problem that mouse faces is the accumulation of dirt on its surface. In case of the deposition of dirt and grime in the sensory areas, the performance of the device is also minimized to a disturbing level. Therefore, the only way to make the mouse functionally better again is to clean it. Regular cleaning is also a part of the proper maintenance regime of the same that can be done even if the mouse has not accumulated dirt.

Computer mouse

Difficulty level: Easy

Time required: 30 minutes

Resources required

1. The instruction manual from the manufacturer of the mouse

2. Dry and clean cotton cloth

3. Mild computer cleaning solution

4. Cotton swab

5. Paperclip

6. Small knife

7. Screwdriver

8. Alcohol

9. Container

Instructions

1. Shut down the whole system first and read the manual

Before you begin the mouse cleaning regime, ensure that the system is properly shut down. Check carefully that the main wire to the power supply slot is removed. Locate the mouse port of the computer, which is generally found at the back of the system. But at times it may also be attached to the computer by means of a USB port. Once you have found out the connecting port, unplug it totally. Finally check and be confirmed that there is no electric supply anywhere in the whole system. Now, get hold of the manufacturer’s manual where the whole process of recommended steps are given that are to be followed meticulously while cleaning the mouse. In case if the manual is not found or no cleaning regime is stated there in the manual you can search the net and get necessary feedback and useful guidelines on your project.

2. Clean the wire

It is not that the surface of the mouse which is handled the most and is the most dirt prone area. The wire connected to the mouse can also gather grime and depositions over the time. Thus, get hold of the dry cotton cloth and dip it in some computer cleaning solution. Avoid too much of solution while cleansing as it can make the surface to be cleaned, oily and slippery. Likewise, too less cleansing solution can also not be proper as it will not be effective against the accumulated grime. Anyhow, take the sufficient quantity of the cleansing agent in the cloth and hold the wire with the same. Run your hand along the entire length of the wire. Follow the same method for various wires that connects the mouse to the different parts of the computer; the one that connects it with the keyboard, the other that is connected to the USB port or the back of the computer, etc.

3. Clean the surface of the mouse

Initially rub the entire surface of the mouse with a clean, dry cloth so that the loose dirt can be removed. Otherwise it will get stuck on to the device when the cleansing liquid will be used, making the process further messy. Now, dip the clean cotton cloth in the cleansing solution and drip it dry so that there is no excess liquid, or else there will be water and soap marks on the surface of the mouse. Now, rub the surface gently with the detergent dipped cloth till it becomes shiny and squeaky clean. Turn the mouse upside down to clean the other side of it too. Once your work is done, leave it in open space so that it dries up completely.

4. Clean the internal part of the mouse

In case if your mouse has a rubber ball in it, open the mouse cover located at the underside of the mouse. Give it slight pressure and pull it towards the arrow mark, imprinted on it and the case will automatically open. In order to remove the stubborn dirt and grime from the ball and the inside of the case, use knife, screwdriver, small stick and paper clip to remove grime from those hard to reach areas. Now, dip the cotton swab in alcohol and gently rub it all over the internal part of the mouse and the the ball. Leave it in open air till it gets dry and replace the cover again when the work is finally done. If you have an optical mouse, there is no need to open it at all. All you need to do is to dip the clean cotton swab in alcohol and carefully rub and clean the optical light at the bottom of the mouse.

5. Test the mouse

Once you are through with the cleaning, plug the mouse and fix the wires again, at it was previously. Switch on the power and examine if the mouse is working well or not.

Frequently asked questions

1. Q. When do I need to clean my mouse?

A. It should be cleaned at least once a month. In case of accumulation of dirt immediate cleaning can be done.

2. Q. Does cleaning the mouse regularly at intervals improve its efficiency?

A. Yes as it prevents the deposition of dirt on its sensory parts.

Quick tips

1. Clean the mouse whenever it stumbles or appears to be slow

2. In case of mouse with rubber ball, if you find rubber on your mouse pad, clean the mouse immediately.

Things to watch out for

1. Never start cleaning the mouse if the system is in power and the mouse is plugged in.

2. After cleaning, assemble the various parts of the mouse only when it is completely dry.