Gross but practical question: how do you keep your external keyboard / mouse clean? 

I've tried isopropyl wipes and it doesn't seem that effective.

I have the same keyboard at work and at home but the one at home feels 100x nicer since I use it so much less.

Is it a lost cause?

Working on Farcaster and Warpcast. Longer thoughts at https://dwr.email

Regularly cleaning with a damp cloth and gentle disinfectant could help maintain your keyboard/mouse. Consider using a keyboard cover for added protection