Gaming may not require many physical motors because it only requires wrists and fingers fundamentally, but indeed your gaming mat has been absorbing plenty of sweat from your palms. Aside from that, lots of foreign dust will be accumulated in the gaming mat, causing it to be smelly and dirty.
It is alarming for gamers or even people working in their offices because it can cause gaming mechanical problems and health issues. Here is an unprecedented step by step process on how gamers should clean their gaming mat:
Step 1: Schedule when to clean. If you are on your PC 24/7, it is easy to lose interest because gaming will always be your priority. But yeah, it is wrong. Washing your gaming mat twice a month more sanitary enough.
Step 2: Treat your gaming mat like clothes. It must be thoroughly treated. Place your gaming mat in a clean sink. Make sure to take into account the size of your gaming mat. If you use a large rug, you can use a tub or whatever you fancy as long as it fits. Slightly dampen your gaming pad with water and either mild shampoo, liquid detergent, or hand soap. Always remember to use cold water, for this is very crucial. Using hot water in this process can inflict permanent damage to your gaming mat material and some custom prints.
Step 3: Find an old brush or unused sponge to scrub dirty spots on the gaming mat. It is way too important to make sure that you use a soft brush or sponge because using sharp and heavy tools will deteriorate the overall quality of the gaming mat. The secret to cleaning a gaming mat is to be as gentle as possible. Just treat it like delicate clothing.
Step 4: Clean and eradicate any residual suds and soap from your gaming mat by rinsing it with cold water. Again, a quick reminder to always use cold water so that it will retain its overall quality. Rinse it repeatedly until there are no visible signs of suds and soap left.
Step 5: Prepare a clean towel and pat your gaming pad dry repeatedly. This step must be done in a very mild manner too. Too much pressure can erase the print or ruin the meshing of the material. After that, air dry your gaming pad for the rest of the day. Also, placing your gaming pad near a fan will help it dry quicker.
Gaming Pad on Washing Machine
If you are lazy or busy enough to be unable to execute the steps above, you can put your gaming pad in the washer, or visit the nearest laundromat. If you opt to leave it to a laundry expert, do not hesitate to remind them.
Always use mild detergent and make sure that the material of your gaming pad is one of the following:
- Polyester
- Nylon
- Rubber
- Acetate
- Acrylic
- Foam
- Polyurethane
- Microfiber
Final Thoughts
As much as you enjoy gaming, you must also consider sanitary actions related to your gaming rig because it will prolong their lifespan and improve the gaming quality you have been experiencing. Now that you know the steps on how to clean your gaming mat, discipline yourself to practice it regularly.