Q. My mouse is acting up. It feels like it’s rolling over gravel and it seems to skip. Do I have to buy a new one? A. You may need a new one, but in all likelihood all it needs is a good cleaning.

I have lived in New York City for 15 years now and in that time, I have occupied some truly horrific apartments, as broke post-grads are known to do. In that time, I have battled mice and roaches—and ...