Uses for Mouse Pads

One of the household's most useful, diverse tools rests under the computer mouse. There are so many quick, easy uses for mouse pads that these spongy wonders should never end up in the trash. A dirty mouse pad cleans up in a snap with some soapy water, a brush, and a sunny spot to dry out, but if that pad has seen better days, give it a new purpose in any room of the house.

Kitchen

Old mouse pads have several uses in the kitchen, especially if the mouse pad has a top fabric layer and a rubberized bottom layer. Use a mouse pad to protect countertops and the dining table from hot pans. If there are several, line them up in kitchen cabinets to secure plates and glasses from slipping; this will also keep the cabinet lining paper like new. A mouse pad can also be used to open a stubborn jar or bottle; the rubberized coating will grab the surface, making the task easier.

Garden

Either type of mouse pad, fabric-covered or plastic-covered, will do a great job of keeping your pants clean while you're working on your knees in the garden. Lay the pads down before kneeling, or do some preparation beforehand by stitching snaps and elastic bands on the pads so they can be strapped onto your knees and you don't have to worry about picking them up and moving them every time you move. The snaps allow the bands to be removed so the mouse pads can be cleaned. The plastic-covered variety can also be used as planter trivets, keeping furniture safe from small water stains or scuffs from a clay pot.

Other Rooms

Mouse pads make perfect drink coasters; in fact, many manufacturers of promotional items now offer coasters from a soft, pad-like material. Be thrifty and make these yourself by measuring the size you'll need and cutting the pad with a sharp pair of scissors. One mouse pad can make four to six coasters. To protect hardwood floors, cut the mouse pad into smaller squares and slip one under each leg of a chair, sofa, or table. This also makes furniture easier to move if the squares are placed fabric side down. A thoroughly cleaned mouse pad placed in a basket also makes a great bed for a small dog or cat.

Crafts

Bright solid-color or white pads are a great addition to a crafter's project table. Lay the pad over on one side, and drop any small items like jewelry rings, screws, gemstones, or sequins on the pad so they're easy to find when you need them. Slice the pad in strips and use as a pincushion if you need to keep several types of needles handy while working on a project.