So this mouse pad I've ever earned in 2008. Even then the pad was smelly, but after a "hand wash" in warm water after a short time was nothing to remember them and did the job enjoyable. For this reason I have now again bought the pad for at home and unfortunately had to realize: The smell has become even stronger and can not be removed. My hand stinks even after brief contact to the mouse pad. The gel-pad is also much harder. Overall, a letdown. I can only strongly advise against. Health, is what there certainly does not smell.
