After one month of usage, the transparent gel is maintaining. It has microban antimicrobial protection which claims to keep it cleaner. It also has a stain-resistant polyurethane covering, and non-skid rubber backing to keep it from moving. My mouse doesn't stick to it like other mouse pads, it slides around a lot on it, and off of it though. The reason I said I wouldn't purchase this again is bc I hope I don't have to, I expect it to last.