Most people use their computer mouse as cursor control and clicking tools. The scroll wheel is an integral part of many web browsers that you can use to quickly navigate through pages or videos.
The most important button on a mouse is its scroll wheel. A lot of our work depends on it. However, while using it, it may get dirty and could affect our pace of work. In this article, I am going to show you how to clean the mouse scroll wheel if it gets dirty and is unable to scroll properly.
This article will go into detail about what things you should look out for when cleaning your mouse and how to clean it properly.
QUICK ANSWER
The thing you should do is wipe it down using a piece of paper or cloth.
You can use a soft, clean cloth that has no hairs or lint attached. Make sure to rub in a circular motion to make sure every part gets cleaned.
After wiping the mouse, try out the scroll wheel to see if it works properly. If it does not work at all, then there is probably something stuck inside which could cause it to stop working.
Then you should follow the guide that is discussed below.
Check the mouse for Cracks or Broken Pieces
While using your computer, you may find that when you scroll up or down with your mouse wheel, the scrolling is very slow or not happening at all.
This can be caused by a malfunctioning mouse wheel or trackball. If this happens to you, then it is time to look into getting a new one!
If you check the mouse itself, you will probably notice some sort of button or sensor was pressed wrong so it does not work properly. This could be due to poor quality control in manufacturing or something faulty within the device.
There are several things that people do to try and fix a damaged mouse wheel or trackball. But most people suggest replacing the mouse if it is possible.
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How To Clean a Mouse Scroll Wheel
In this article, I am going to show you how to clean the mouse scroll wheel if it gets dirty and is unable to scroll properly.
Why Clean A Mouse Scroll Wheel
A lot of our work mainly depends on the scroll wheel. A mouse wheel is responsible for providing users with an excellent experience by scrolling easily through a page. There can be multiple reasons that compel you to clean a mouse wheel.
Some of them are as follows:
- To make the mouse work properly
- To prevent the scroll wheel from sticking
- To enhance the functionality of the mouse
Cleaning A Mouse Wheel
Cleaning a mouse wheel might seem a complex task, however you dot have to worry. This step-by-step guide will help you in cleaning your mouse effectively and your mouse will be able to function properly after it has been cleaned.
So without any due, let’s begin.
Method 1: By The Use Of Tooth-pick
The easiest and quickest way to clean a mouse scroll wheel is by the use of tooth-pick or Q-Tip but you have to be cautious while doing it. Here are some of the steps:
- Keep the mouse under the direct source of light, so that you are able to keep to see it clearly.
- Gently spin the wheel to find out any dirt or grime.
- Dip a Q-Tip in alcohol and rub it all over the wheel to remove the dirt or grime.
- Slide a toothpick along the ridges of the mouse wheel.
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Method 2: By The Use Of A Can Of Compressed Air
This method is highly recommended, as it is used in order to thoroughly clean the scroll wheel so that no dirt is left. Following is the list of steps:
Step#1: Remove the mouse from the computer
Unplug the mouse from the computer. Take out the batteries if you use a wireless mouse that runs on battery power.
Step#2: Loose the screws
Flip the mouse over and locate the small screws holding the panels together. Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove the screws. You should remove all the screws. Keep them aside in a safe place and flip the devicde back over.
Step#3: Remove the upper panel
To remove the upper panel, pull the top panel upward and remove it gently. You will be able to locate the scroll wheel and internal circuit. Carefully notice how the scroll wheel is located on the plastic panel as you will have to assemble the panels as it is afterward,
Step#4: Remove the wheel
You will now be able to spot two springs arrising from either side of the scroll wheel. Get hold of the plastic assembly and pull the assembly upward to remove the wheel and attached springs.
Step#5: Clean the wheel using a can of compressed air
Hold the can of compressed air at least four inches above the wheel and panel. Fire short bursts of air on each side of the wheel and blow away all the dust and debris.
Step#6: Repeat the process
Repeat the process until the mouse wheel and panel looks completely clean.
Step#7: Reunite the panels
Place the wheel back and replace the assembly in the center. You will hear a small click once the wheel is placed correctly. Fit the top panel back, flip over the mouse to replace the screws, and tighten them.
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Method 3: Cleaning The Mouse Without Taking It Apart
If you do not want to disassemble the mouse and willing to clean the mouse without taking it apart, then you should follow the following steps:
Step#1: Unplug the mouse
Unplug the mouse from the computer or PC or take the battery out if you use a wireless mouse.
Step#2: Can of compressed air
Hold a can of compressed air at least four inches above the wheel and spray bursts of air through it to blow off the loose dust and dirt.
Step#3: Microfiber cloth
Clean off the mouse with a small and soft microfiber cloth.
Conclusion:
Hence, these were all the steps on how to clean the mouse scroll wheel. If you have any confusion or query, then do ask on the contact us page.
Thanks!
