A clean computer will stay in better running condition



Dear Readers: Since many of us spend a lot of time at computers, they do get dirty from all that use. We also need to take care of our computers. If you clean it frequently, your computer will stay in better running condition. Try these cleaning hints to keep your computer in tiptop shape:
First, turn the computer off, tip the keyboard upside down and gently tap the back of it with your hand. You'll be amazed at what comes out! Then use the soft-brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to gently vacuum the keyboard.
Recycle a used dryer sheet (don't use new ones) to wipe off the keyboard. It will lift off dust and might eliminate static electricity. Then you can toss the sheet.
Electronics stores carry products specifically for cleaning computers, such as cans of compressed air and wipes for keyboards. Check with a salesperson for the right product. Heloise
P.S. Alcohol-based wipes are perfect to keep handy for a quick swipe to remove fingerprints.
Dear Heloise: To make your needlepoint projects a little easier, separate the different colors and thread a needle with each one. Put the needles in a pincushion, and they are ready for use. Tina from Utah
Fast facts
Dear Heloise: I just love those long-sleeve newspaper bags. I have all kinds of uses for them:
Use to store rolls of holiday gift wrap.
Use to store balls of yarn.
Use as a makeshift rubber glove.
I keep one in the kitchen for food scraps. Then I knot it and put it in the trash. Jeanne Kramer, Stevens, Pa.
Dear Heloise: I keep a small box in a drawer to hold plastic tops for ketchup, mustard, milk, etc. After I use a ketchup bottle and there is ketchup all over the top, I just put that one in the dishwasher and put a clean one back on.
Also, when opening a can whose liquid will be discarded, only open the can halfway. With your hand-crank opener still on the can, turn and drain. After the liquid has drained, simply continue opening the rest of the can. Susan Zuzu in Houston
Sound off
Dear Heloise: Some food and drug companies print codes on their packages or cans instead of the actual dates when their products were produced. They should at least print the actual "best if used by" dates on the packages. Why be mysterious? Mrs. Dan Roberts, Minneapolis
If you find something in your pantry where the date is unrecognizable, you can call the manufacturer for an explanation. Most manufacturers have toll-free numbers listed on their products. Or, if you have computer access, you can check to see if the company has a Web site. Many times, a company will explain how to read the codes on the Web page. Heloise
Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate

By using this site, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of use.

» Accept
» Learn More