Your laptop holds a lot of your important documents, precious pictures, family videos, and the like, so it's important to keep it in tiptop shape so that it functions better for a longer period. Lugging your laptop around, exposing it to dirt and dust, and using it for long hours--all of these can take their toll on your favorite gadget. Learn how to take care of your laptop by following the tips below.

(First published in Good Housekeeping Magazine, Good (Enough) Housekeeping, File This section as "Laptop Love" in June 2010; adapted for use in Female Network. Photo by Jerry Bunkers via Flickr Creative Commons)