How to Clean a Mouse (Quick and Easy)

By Deependra Pangeni Updated December 27, 2023

To clean a mouse externally, use a microfiber cloth dampened with some tap water. It’ll easily wipe out most of the external dust, grime, and sweat stains.

For stubborn stains like sticker marks, you should use Isopropyl alcohol instead.

If you want to deep-clean the internals as well, you need to be a bit more cautious. Strictly avoid using any kind of liquid cleaning agent and only stick to a Q-tip, an electric duster, or a can of compressed air.

Let’s get into the details now.

Before You Begin

Here are a few things you should keep in mind before cleaning the mouse.

Never dip your mouse directly into a cleaning solution. No matter whether it’s a waterproof or not.
Do not spray the cleaning agent straight onto the mouse. Always use a microfiber cloth.
Cleansing agents like acetone, bleach, or nail polish remover harm the texture and appearance of your mouse chassis. Avoid using them.

Cleaning the Mouse Chassis

To start, unplug the mouse from your PC. For a wireless mouse, first remove its batteries. Also, toggle off the power switch. Then,

Get some tap water in a container, preferably lukewarm. Then, dip a microfiber cloth on it and wring it out to remove excess water.
With that towel, rub the outer shell, buttons, and scroll-wheel.
Use a damped Q-tip to clean the unreachable parts.
If plain water does not seem to work, you may try soapy water as well.
For cleaning the cracks, you may use something pointed like a toothpick. Make sure not to scratch the mouse, though.
Then, use an electric duster to blow out the dust.
Clean the bottom too.
This is what my mouse looks like after cleaning the chassis.

Do note that for stains like sticker marks, it’s better to use some rubbing alcohol. But make sure the concentration of alcohol is at most 70%. Not 1% more.

I once happened to use laboratory Isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of 90%. Sadly, I lost the rubber grip and plastic coating of one of my favorite mice, the Razer DeathAdder Elite. I don’t want the same thing to happen with you.

If the alcohol composition is higher, you can dilute the solution. Regardless, make sure the alcohol does not remain in the mouse shell for long. I suggest you wipe it quickly to be on the safe side.

Tip: You can also use baby wipes, lens wipes, makeup-removing tissue, or a glass cleaner (<70% alcohol) to quickly clean your mouse.

Cleaning the Internals

Cleaning the internals of your mouse is generally not necessary. But if you have stiff buttons or screeching sound from the scroll wheel, feel free to do it.

Just make sure you know what you are doing, as any forceful action may damage your mouse permanently.

First, disassemble your mouse and get the shells apart.
Then, bring an electric duster and blow the dust from the internals. Make sure you cover the entire circuit board.
Clean the buttons and scroll wheel, too.
Also, make sure there’s no dust/lint on the sensor.
Detach the main board from the shell and clean the lens, too.
In case you are using a can of compressed air, strictly place it at least 3 to 5 inches away. The air pressure difference can form water drops in the mouse, ultimately damaging it.
After that, get a dry Q-tip and clean the corners. You may also use a sheet of paper to clean the small gaps.
For fibers/hair strands, use tweezers and pull them out.
Once everything is sorted, reassemble your mouse, and it is ready to use.

Note: Cleaning can be quite challenging if you own a honeycomb shell mouse like Steelseries Aerox 3 and Glorious Model O. I recommend you use a Q-tip (dipped in water and mostly dried) to clean such mice.