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How to Clean Your Mouse

This guide is an approved mouse cleaning method from our product team to keep your gear free of dirt and grime.


It's a great time for a refresh as we flip another calendar year. Your #1 PC friend may use some housekeeping, as well.

You may not know it, but your hand may be touching the dirtiest thing in the room. Your mouse is a cesspool of dirt and grime coming off of you and whatever you touched.

Cleaning your equipment is super important. When done correctly, it can extend the life of your mouse and your health.

Cleaning Supplies:

  • Clean cloth

  • Canned air

  • Paper towel

  • Toothpick

How to Clean Your Mouse in 6 Easy Steps:

  1. Use Paper Towerls — Place paper towels on your desk to catch any dirt.

  2. Unplug your mouse – let’s not break anything today. If it’s wireless, make sure it's turned off, and if it has removeable AA or AAA batteries, then take them out first.

  3. Toothpick Tight Spaces — Use a toothpick to carefully get into the all the tiny nooks and crannies to scrape out any gunk. Avoid using a toothpick on the optical sensor lens or inside of the mouse to avoid damaging delicate electronics!

  4. Air Clean Debris — Use the canned air to blow out any remaining debris that you may have loosened with the toothpick. Make sure to use the can right-side up so it blows air and not liquid!

  5. Gently Clean with Warm Water — It's best to use a clean cloth with warm water wipe away any dirt on the mouse. To remove oils, a mild dish detergent could be used for spot cleaning that area. Avoid using alcohol wipes as they may damage painted or printed surfaces or details on the mouse.

  6. Dry Thoroughly — Make sure everything is dry before plugging it back in. Repeat every few weeks, or as necessary.

Viola! Enjoy your clean mouse!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you take a mouse apart to clean it?

No, SteelSeries does not recommend disassembling any components of our mice. Please stick to the simple steps outlined above in order to avoid potentially damaging your product.

2. Can I use alcohol wipes to clean my mouse?

Avoid using alcohol wipes as it's solvent properties may damage any protective coatings and paint or print detailing on the mouse. However, alcohol wipes may be helpful if you want to replace your mice feet as they can help clean the contact surface after removal for the best possible adhesion of new feet.

3. Can I use other household products to clean my mouse?

We recommend against using anything else as they may also damage any protective coatings and paint or print detailing, but if you do choose to use sprays or any other cleaning and disinfecting products on your equipment, please carefully read all labels to ensure safe and correct use for both your belongings and your own health.

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