take the break and learn how to knit/sew, so the next time you need a new mousepad you can just make one
Like J.R. said, I also doubt your mouse feet are pristine even when using a mousepad, it's just impossible. Also the Mamba 2012 have the shittiest feet and the ring sticker around the optic is a magnet for dirt. Battery can inflate over time and damage the plastic cover, so if you're not using it wireless, then take it out. My mousepad substitute: Slim book with hard cover *Note: If your Mamba feet ever gets damaged, you can order new ones to replace them but it will almost cost as much as a new mouse.
Beat me too it... If you do not have some children skin on you right now (idk why you wouldn't) you could always use any old skin of a virgin. While it is not as high of quality, it gets the job done.
u can use a cotton cloth(can be ur handkerchief if u use one) on a flat surface like book or your junkie table. It always work cuz I never use mouse pad.
a thin, broad, blak/red sponge that usually comes when you buy a motherboard. but you'll need to taped it to the table. i've been using such sponge for years, and my mouse is still pristine underneath. contrary to the topside T.T
I also use the cardboard back of a spiral notebook, it works reasonably well although the space can feel limited sometimes. The laser might burn the surface slightly if you leave it for a really long time, works great other than that.
haven't used a mouse in years..... So I guess I can't help you there.... I switched to using a graphic tablet.... As in the pen shaped mouse used for digital art.... Feel much more comfy in my hand then a reg mouse.
You should always keep backup around =p Honestly, I really can't care much about mousepad, so I can't help you there. I basically have 2 regular mousepad + wrist rest gel for commuting, 2 oppai mousepad to deal with wrist pain (which are very comfy btw), and razor mousepad sitting around in the dust somewhere.
Even if you clean the mouse, the moment you slide the mouse and the feet touch a surface it will scratch and wear off over time, it's the law of friction. So yeah, I'm calling out your "pristine" as a fat lie. Been using mouse for ages with the best mousepad on the market, the only one who's feet doesn't really wear off is the one which doesn't move and has a trackball. And depending on how you hold the mouse, some part will get more used than others and will wear off faster. The rubber ring around the optic use glue to stick, no matter how much careful you are, the glue will lose it's adhesiveness over time -> cheapest part of the mamba along with the feet. I have already edit my comment long before you wasted your time posting the mamba manual...sigh. Anyhow, I see you love your mamba dearly and is ready to jump at my throat. So I'll leave you with it.