Even if the inside of your home is spotless, your neighbors will think you're a slob if the lawn is overgrown and the hedges aren't pruned.

It's just as important to keep things clean on the outside as it is on the inside. Keeping your computer clean (that means wiping down the keyboard, monitor, and mouse and keeping dust away )will mean fewer lost files and crashes.

There are a variety of special products you can order over the Internet that are designed to clean your computer screen, your keyboard, and your mouse. Please, put that Windex away!

My favorite place to shop for cleaning products? Office Depot:

http://www.officedepot.com/

There are also companies that make computer covers. Some of them are actually pretty snazzy, like a matching cow print keyboard and monitor cover.

In addition, part of keeping things cleaned and maintained is keeping YOU comfortable while using the computer. There's a special word for this: it's called ergonomics, which generally means things that keep you comfortable (and safe) while using the computer.

Now go to our "MustHaves" area for the best things we've found to keep your computer squeaky-clean and to keep you comfortable.