To safely clean your touchpad, start by turning off your laptop or disabling the touchpad through the device settings to prevent unintended inputs. Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly moistened with water or a mild isopropyl alcohol solution. Gently wipe the touchpad surface in a circular motion, avoiding excessive pressure or moisture that could seep into the edges and cause damage. Avoid using abrasive materials or strong chemical cleaners that could degrade the touchpad's surface. After cleaning, allow the touchpad to dry completely before re-enabling it or powering on your laptop.