A good laptop case will last for years if you look after it, yet most people never give theirs a second thought until it starts to look tired. A little routine care keeps your case clean, protective and presentable, and it takes only minutes. Here is how to keep yours in top condition.
Clean it regularly
Dust and crumbs collect inside a case surprisingly quickly and can scratch your laptop. Turn the case upside down and shake out loose debris every couple of weeks. For fabric cases, a soft brush lifts grime from the seams where it tends to gather.
Treat stains the right way
Different materials need different handling. Neoprene and canvas can usually be wiped with a damp cloth and a touch of mild soap, then left to air dry away from direct heat. Leather needs a dedicated conditioner rather than water, which can leave marks. Always test any cleaner on a hidden corner first.
Protect the zips and seams
Zips are the part most likely to fail, so avoid forcing them when they catch. A tiny amount of dry lubricant or even a graphite pencil rubbed along the teeth keeps them running smoothly. Check the stitching now and then and deal with a loose thread before it unravels.
Store it properly
When the case is not in use, keep it somewhere dry and out of direct sunlight, which can fade colours and weaken materials over time. Avoid leaving it squashed under heavy objects, as this can flatten the padding that protects your laptop.
Follow these simple habits and a quality case will keep doing its job long after a neglected one would have worn out.