Phase One: Decluttering
Move those files off the desktop
Storing files on your desktop can create clutter, but it can also slow your computer down. Get into the habit of saving those files in their proper places. Both Windows and Mac computers have folders assigned for specific types of files (documents, photos, videos).
Make folders that make sense
Keep things simple and keep like with like,For example, create a ‘Home’ folder to house documents related to your house, then create sub-folders such as ‘Improvements’ to house receipts for the repairs you've made to your house and ‘Ownership Documents’ for mortgage documents.
Backup to cloud — and organize there, too
For safekeeping of your files, it is always good to have a cloud-based back up systems such as Google Drive or DropBox, which offer redundancy in the case that your files are ruined on your device
Note that you’ll want to keep your cloud files efficiently organized too, using the same folder system.
Discard the downloads
Running out of space? Check your downloads folder, Many times, we think a program or other file may not have downloaded properly and may download multiple copies. Or we may not even need the dmg or exe file after we have installed the program. These programs can eat up a significant amount of space on your hard drive in your downloads folder. PDFs, PowerPoint presentations, pictures, videos and other such documents that you're not using may be there as well eating up precious space.
Phase Two: Cleaning
Before doing any of this, make sure your computer is not only turned off, but also unplugged.
Compressed air for nooks and crannies
Our keyboards are magnets for dust and crumbs. To get rid of these little particles, use a compressed air duster.
Blow compressed air into the nooks and crannies in your keyboard, Don’t forget to dust in the USB and HDMI ports as well.
Try holding your laptop upside down while dusting to have gravity assist you.
Clean screens only with a microfiber cloth
It's tempting to grab a Kleenex to clean your screen, but don't do it — standard paper towels and Kleenex can ruin your screens The best way to clean the screens for all of your electronics is with a microfiber cloth.
It’s also tempting to grab a disinfectant wipe, these can damage your tech.
DIY this cleaning solution — and apply without spraying
When cleaning the screen, you’ll want to avoid anything like Windex or plain water. Instead, Mix one part isopropyl rubbing alcohol and one part distilled water. Distilled water is ideal because the minerals in regular tap water can leave streaks on your screen.
A computer screen is extremely delicate, so rather than spraying the solution on it, dab or spray it onto the microfiber cloth. Then use the damp cloth to gently wipe any fingerprints and smudges from your screen.
Wipe down the track pad and other surface areas
You can use this same technique for wiping down the track pad, keyboard, and areas around the keys.
When typing, most peoples' hands rest on either side of the track pad and the oils from the skin leave behind gross buildup,Use the same cloth and cleaner you used on the screen to wipe it all away.
Get in between the keys with a Q-tip
If you’re still seeing some buildup on your keyboard after using the microfiber cloth, use a Q-tip with a little bit of alcohol to get the gunk out.
Tidy up with cable ties
Once you’ve got your computer in spiffy shape, you’ll want to take care of any cord clutter by investing in a few zip ties.
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