Unlike cloth mousepads, glass mousepads do not need to be "washed," but over time, oil and dirt can accumulate on the surface, altering their glide. Here, we've compiled a guide to maintaining your glass mousepad in optimal condition, categorized by frequency.

Daily Care: Wipe with a Microfiber Cloth

After each gaming session, a quick wipe of the surface with a microfiber cloth can significantly prevent the daily buildup of skin oils. A cloth made of the same material as a spectacle cleaner is perfectly fine.

The key is to "dry wipe." For light dirt, no moisture is needed, as the fibers of the cloth will absorb the oil. This is a 10-second habit to do before leaving your desk after gaming, so please try to incorporate it.

Weekly Care: Wet Wipe + Air Dry

If dirt accumulates that cannot be removed by dry wiping alone, wipe the surface with a damp microfiber cloth. Tap water is sufficient.

The process is simple. First, dampen the cloth with water and wring it out lightly. Then, wipe the glass surface in one direction. Avoid wiping in circular motions, as this can spread the dirt. Finally, wipe off any moisture with a dry part of the cloth or allow it to air dry.

Since glass is a water-repellent material, it will not be damaged even if moisture remains. However, if you move your mouse while water droplets are still on the gliding surface, the operating feel may temporarily change, so it's best to use it only after it has completely dried.

Monthly Care: Alcohol Cleaning

For stubborn oil stains or those who sweat a lot, monthly alcohol cleaning is effective. Use anhydrous ethanol or isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of about 70%.

Apply a small amount to a microfiber cloth and wipe the surface. If you spray it directly onto the glass, the alcohol might seep into the anti-slip backing (on the underside), so always apply it to the cloth first.

For coated glass pads, alcohol may affect the coating. Please check the manufacturer's recommended cleaning instructions. For non-coated types, alcohol use is not a problem.

NG Care Practices to Avoid

There are also several points to be aware of when cleaning a glass mousepad.

Firstly, never use abrasive cleaners. They can damage the fine texture of the glass surface, altering the gliding feel. Kitchen cleansers or hand soaps with abrasive particles are also a no-go.

Next, avoid using hard sponges or scrubbing brushes. While it's rare for the glass itself to be scratched, it can affect the texture of non-coated surfaces.

Also, dish soap can be difficult to rinse off, and residue can form a film on the gliding surface. If you do use it, make sure to rinse thoroughly.

If You Notice a Change in Glide

If you suddenly notice a change in the glide of your glass pad, the cause is often not dirt on the glass surface but rather deterioration of the mouse feet. Because glass surfaces are extremely hard, mouse feet (especially PTFE) tend to wear out first.

If cleaning doesn't restore the glide, consider replacing your mouse feet. UPE feet designed for glass pads offer excellent wear resistance and can significantly reduce the frequency of replacement.

Storage Precautions

Glass mousepads should primarily be stored flat. Storing them upright carries the risk of them falling over and breaking. Be especially careful with thin models.

When transporting them, it's safest to use a dedicated case or a padded bag. If carried bare in a bag, the surface could be scratched by contact with other items.

Summary: Proper Care for Extended Use

With proper maintenance, a glass mousepad is a device that can maintain the same operational feel for many years. By simply adopting the three steps of daily dry wiping, weekly wet wiping, and monthly alcohol cleaning, you can consistently approach your games in optimal condition.

Since they don't require periodic replacement like cloth pads, a small habit of care is key to maintaining long-term performance.