To combat this, Lauderdale recommends starting with one folder, and moving everything into there.
The easiest way to clear your desktop is by utilizing folders, but when you have a desktop full of unorganized documents and files, sitting down to create an organization system may feel daunting.
SEE: BYOD (bring-your-own-device) policy (Tech Pro Research)
Here are seven ways to hit desktop zero, as recommended by productivity experts and professionals who practice the concept. Similar to the concept of inbox zero–the act of keeping your primary email box empty– working to keep a computer screen completely clean can help keep things organized while minimizing potential distractions. “Similar to a cluttered office, a cluttered computer desktop can create anxiety and make it difficult to get anything done,” Alex Lauderdale, senior editor at, said. Multiple professionals said the clutter can distract them from getting work done, or make it difficult to find what they need quickly. Having too much on your screen can become stressful–a recent Bynder survey found that 30% of professionals have over 100 files saved on their desktop. Whether it’s documents, screenshots, or computer programs, everything can have an icon cluttering the desktop, even if you don’t need instant access to it. Don't apply the liquid directly onto the keys apply it to the cloth instead.Much like an email inbox, a computer desktop can often turn into a catch-all spot.
"You want to remove the mess rather than pushing it deeper into the machine," Asedillo cautions.įinish the job by wiping the keys with a cloth lightly moistened with plain water or rubbing alcohol. If you don't have a small vacuum, try a small brush or the sticky end of a Post-it or simply turn the keyboard upside down and give it a shake.
How can you hide the evidence? "Believe it or not, the tool of choice is a small, portable vacuum cleaner," says Asedillo. The keyboard: Admit it: Your keyboard is a magnet for dust and debris, and maybe even food crumbs. TV, tablet, and smartphone owners should heed this advice, as well. "Harsh cleaners can damage a screen's anti-glare properties and even make a touchscreen less responsive," says Asedillo. Wash the screen by moving the sponge in small circles, applying just a bit of pressure.ĭon't use ammonia, ammonia-based window cleaners, alcohol, or other chemicals, Asedillo warns, because they may damage the display's coating.
Soak a sponge in plain water and wring it out until it's just damp. The screen: Use a dry lint-free cloth to remove the surface dust. Asedillo advises against using a vacuum cleaner inside the case, to avoid possible static discharge, which could compromise your machine's circuits. She suggests using a compressed air can to carefully remove the accumulated dust. "But dust can accumulate inside tower-model desktops, causing the cooling fans to work overtime," says Asedillo. Most laptops are quite well sealed, so don't bother trying to clean their innards. A soft paint brush or an old toothbrush can also help remove dust and pet hair that remains trapped there. Hold the can at an angle so that you're not blowing the debris deeper into the machine. Ports and vents: Use a compressed air can to dislodge debris from the various nooks and crannies. "Q-tips are great for hard-to-reach areas," says Asedillo, "And then you can finish the job by drying it with a lint-free cloth." While you're at it, sponge off the mouse and trackpad, too. Soak a sponge with the mixture and wring it out until it’s damp, then gently wipe the exterior of the computer. The shell: Start by adding a tiny drop of dishwashing detergent to a small amount of warm water.
You should also take a moment to refer to the owner’s manual for do's and don'ts about cleaning solutions and techniques that might be specific to your device. Before you attempt to clean your computer, make sure to unplug it and power it down.