Since I just recenty bought my very first laptop and also because I have a disfunctional history with computers I thought it wise to read up on laptop maintenance.
Laptops require the same basic maintenance that my home pc needs, while also needing some extra precautions:

1. Defragmentation: This way you ensure that your laptop runs efficiently. Defrag your laptop at least once a month to allow programs to run more smoothly and off course more effectively use the space you have on your hard drive.

2. Keep the hard drive clean: if you are like me than your laptop is probably full of junk you no longer use. For me it is always hard to part with things as I have collectors syndrome (you should see my room). But it is important to keep the hard drive clean and remove unused programs and files as often as possible. Try scheduling in 1 day a month to go through the stuff you have accumalated. Take the time to decide what can be burned on a cd and what can be deleted. A clean hard drive runs much smoother.

3. Update your software: This is a very important step in your maintenance routine. Software that is outdated is basically just useless. Try keeping your anti virus, spyware and firewall software as up to date as possible. And while your at that take a look at the other software on your computer asses what is outdated, what can be replaced and what just needs an upgrade.

4. Stay cool: Laptops generate heat, this heat is not only uncomfortable on your lap it also risks damaging the internal circuits of the machine. To increase the longevity of your laptop keep it ventilated and in a cool environment. Also important cooling tip never block the vents on the side, back and bottom of the machine.

5. Use the battery: I read on a website that the laptop battery is basically like a muscle, if you don’t use it, it will die. The laptop battery needs the occasional work out, so unplug and play. Let your battery tell you when it needs a recharge. This way your battery will last much longer. I’ll take their word for it.

6. Don’t treat it like a dog: The laptop does not need walking, I’m serious people. Shut it down for transportation. Never walk with it while still on.

7. Keep away from electrical devices: just trust me on this one

For more info on Santousha please visit my personal blog Seeking Serenity.