Get juniors action figures out of the CD-ROM and let's get to cleaning up that home computer! If you're like most of us, your computer has become a central point in your home. From entertainment, to finances, the home computer has become indispensable in your day to day life. To keep it running at peak performance, it's important to periodically clean the unit. Moisture and dirt are two of the most common causes of electronic failure. So let's get started.

If ever there was a dirt collector, it's the home desktop computer. From the CRT or flat screen that collects dust and fingerprints (if you have kids) to the box next to your desk, it all needs work.

The main box has a series of fans that pull air into the unit for cooling. There usually is at least a fan in the box itself, one on the CPU, another on the motherboard, and yet another inside the power supply. If you've recently purchased a video card, chances are, the card also has a fan. While all this cooling is great, it also pulls in dirt and dust that collects on the electronics of the box.

Cleaning this isn't a big deal but must be done with care. Simply turn off the computer then mark the cables and connections before removing them. The idea is to move your computer to an area where we can clean it. Outside is preferred but any covered area away from moisture is ok. Next, get yourself a can of air from the local electronics store. Don't use your air compressor as it typically doesn't have the moisture trapping capabilities necessary to use on electrical stuff. Open your computer box on one side and simply blow off the various parts taking care not to touch anything inside. Give special attention to the fans.

There are holes in the casing of the power supply. Feel free to use the little red plastic nozzle and blow out the inside of this component. Again, do not put anything directly inside the power supply, just use the nozzle to direct the compressed air to remove the majority of the collected dirt.

One satisfied , close up the unit and take back into the house. Now would be a good time to use a damp cloth and clean the outside of the unit.

Re install the computer and make certain everything is again operational. Next step is to finally get those cables organized. The best way to do this is to use zip ties to put everything in order. Another option available at the computer store is a hard plastic, flexible pipe. It has a slit from one end to the other and it's a snap to stuff all the cables going up to the desk into this handy holder making everything much neater and cleaner.

Lastly, you want to use a damp cloth and wipe down your keyboard, mouse and monitor. I personally use a damp cloth and old toothbrush to clean my keyboard. It keeps the sides of the keys cleaner and as long as just a little water is used, there is no problem with this method.

Abigail Franks has 7 children and 7 grandchildren and spends a lot of time cleaning the house. Look here for some quick cleaning tips and information on vacuum cleaners to keep your home fresh and clean quickly and easily.