How to Clean Your iPad Pro 13 Case Without Damage

By Case-Mate | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to safely clean your iPad Pro 13 case, including Pelican Voyager models, without causing scratches or material damage. Step-by-step guide for M5/M4 cases.

Quick Answer

Use a soft microfiber cloth dampened with mild soap and water to gently wipe your iPad Pro 13 case. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or soaking the case, especially if it has a built-in stand or hand strap.

Why Gentle Cleaning Matters

iPad Pro 13 cases, especially rugged models like the Pelican Voyager, use dual-layer construction and non-slip edges that can trap dirt but are also sensitive to harsh cleaners. Abrasive scrubbing or chemical solvents can degrade the rubberized grip or discolor the material over time.

A simple routine of spot cleaning and occasional deeper care keeps the case functional and looking fresh without voiding any warranty or damaging the protective features.

What to Avoid

Bleach, alcohol-based wipes, ammonia, and strong degreasers can strip the case's finish or cause the rubber to become sticky. Also avoid putting the case in a dishwasher, washing machine, or microwave—none of these are designed for protective cases and can warp or melt components.

If your case has a built-in kickstand or hand strap (like the Pelican Voyager's rotatable velcro strap), be extra careful around moving parts. Submerging the case can let water seep into joints and cause stiffness or corrosion over time.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Remove the Case from Your iPad: Gently peel the case off the iPad Pro 13, starting from one corner. If it's a tight fit, flex the edges slightly—do not pry with tools that could scratch the device or case. Check for any debris trapped between the case and iPad before cleaning.
Dry Dust and Lint First: Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush (like a clean makeup brush) to wipe away loose dust, lint, and crumbs from the case's surface, edges, and any crevices like the Apple Pencil holder. Skipping this step can turn dry debris into a gritty paste when wet, which may scratch the case.
Prepare a Mild Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with a cup of lukewarm water. Dip a clean microfiber cloth into the solution and wring it out until it's just damp—not wet. Do not spray liquid directly onto the case. Too much water can seep into the case's layers or strap mechanism, causing long-term damage.
Wipe the Case Gently: Using the damp cloth, wipe the entire case in a single direction, not in circles. Pay extra attention to smudges and the non-slip edges. For the velcro hand strap, lightly dab—do not rub vigorously. Rubbing too hard on the velcro can fray the loops or loosen the adhesive backing.
Rinse with a Clean Damp Cloth: Use a second microfiber cloth dampened with plain water to wipe off any soap residue. Soap left behind can attract more dirt and cause a sticky feel. Residue is especially visible on darker cases—double-check in good light.
Air Dry Completely Before Reattaching: Place the case on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Let it air dry for at least 2–3 hours. Ensure the kickstand and strap are fully dry before reattaching to your iPad. Putting a damp case back on your iPad can trap moisture and lead to mildew or damage the device's finish.

Product Spotlight

Pelican Voyager Black with Stand - iPad Pro 13" (M5/M4): The Pelican Voyager Case with Stand for iPad Pro features dual-layer impact protection and a non-slip edge design with a built-in rotatable velcro hand strap. The non-slip edges and velcro strap require careful cleaning to avoid loosening the grip or damaging the strap's adhesive; a damp cloth is safest.
Pelican Voyager Black with Stand - iPad Pro 13" (M5/M4)