Rubber mousepad bases can stain white desks.

Yes, especially cheaper rubber bases. Over time, plasticizers (softening chemicals) migrate from the rubber into your desk surface, leaving greasy yellow marks that are hard to clean off white laminate or painted wood.

Silicone bases are much better. Silicone is inherently non-slip without needing plasticizers, so migration is essentially zero. That said, not all “silicone” bases are pure silicone — some are blends that can still cause issues. If you have a white desk and want peace of mind, look for a pad that explicitly states “100% silicone base” or “non-slip without PVC/rubber.”

The other factor is heat and sunlight. A hot monitor or direct sun speeds up plasticizer migration with rubber bases. Keep the desk cool and out of direct sun to minimize any risk.

Spend the extra few bucks for a silicone-based pad. Your white desk will stay white longer.