A microfiber cloth or cotton swab - For cleaning gunk off of the mouse. A lint-free microfiber cloth, such as one meant for cleaning screens or eyeglasses, won’t leave behind fibers like paper towels and other materials. You can use a cotton swab (such as a Q-tip) for smaller areas. 70% Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70%) - For cleaning and sanitizing. [1] X Trustworthy Source Microsoft Support Technical support and product information from Microsoft. Go to source If your isopropyl alcohol is stronger than 70%, dilute it with water, or use a mild dish detergent (for disinfecting) and/or water (for general cleaning). Don’t use a cleaning agent that contains ammonia (e. g. , Windex), as it can harm your mouse. [2] X Research source Clean, dry, lint-free rags - For dusting and drying. Toothpicks - For cleaning out the dust and other matter in the crevices around your mouse. Screwdriver (optional) - To open your mouse’s top, if it’s removable. Check your mouse’s manual or model number online for specific disassembly requirements. Tweezers (optional) - Optional, but helpful if you want to remove specific pieces of grit from sensitive places (e. g. , the mouse’s circuit board).

If your mouse is wireless, switch it off and remove the batteries (if removable).

For example, running the toothpick beneath the buttons will potentially remove grit that prevents the buttons from depressing the whole way.

Feet - Little rubber or plastic pads in the corners or sides of the mouse’s underside. Sensor - A red or green light covered in plastic or glass.

It’s very important to make sure the swab or cloth is not too wet—getting liquid inside of your optical mouse could damage its internal components.

The mouse’s feet The sides of the mouse Any crevices that you cleaned with a toothpick If your mouse has a scroll wheel on top, gunk could also get on that wheel.

The mouse wheel The top of the circuit board (use tweezers for this) the front of the mouse’s body

If you do use a lint roller, you’ll likely have to wipe down the mouse pad afterward to prevent sticky residue from forming.