How to Hang a Skateboard on a Wall

Skateboards can be fun to ride but they can also be used as unique wall decoration. Whether you want to hang up a retired skateboard or one that you use regularly, there are ways that you can do so attractively, creatively, and conveniently.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Hanging a Skateboard Deck with Fishing Line

1. Remove your skateboard's trucks. Turn your skateboard on its side. Use a pair of pliers to hold 1 of the bolts on 1 of your trucks in place. Insert the tip of a screwdriver into the corresponding screw on the top side of the board. Twist the screwdriver until the screw is completely out. Repeat this 3 more times to remove 1 truck, and then remove the other truck using the same method.^[1]
   
2. Feed a piece of fishing line through the holes in your deck. Locate the 2 screw holes closest to 1 end of the skateboard deck. Then, cut off or so of fishing line with a pair of scissors. Hold the deck with the underside facing you and feed 1 end of the fishing line through 1 hole. Then, feed it back towards you through the other hole.^[2]
   
   • The screw holes in your deck are there because they previously allowed screws to hold the deck and trucks together.
3. Tie a knot with the ends of the fishing line. Fishing line can be slippery, so make sure to tie a knot that will hold, such as a granny knot. Don't tie it too close to the holes in the deck, but instead provide a little slack between the knot and the deck to make hanging it easier.^[3]
   
4. Hammer a nail into the wall and hook the fishing line on it. Hold a nail against a point on your wall where you'd like the top of the deck to be located. Then, use a hammer to carefully hammer the nail into the wall.^[4] Stop once the head of the nail is almost, but not quite, flush against the wall. Hang the fishing line on the nail between the nail head and the wall.
   
   • If you're hanging multiple skateboard decks, you may want to use measuring tape and a pencil to find out where on the wall the boards should be hung in order to be evenly spaced out.
5. Hang the fishing line from wall hooks to avoid making holes. Instead of hammering a nail into the wall after you've tied a knot in the fishing line, use a pencil to draw a horizontal line on the wall that's level with the floor where you'd like your skateboard to be hung. Press a command hook, or something similar, onto the center of the line. Then, hang your fishing line on the hook.^[5]
   
   • If you can't make holes in your walls, this may be a great alternative.

[Edit]Using Wall Mounts to Display Skateboard Decks

1. Drill a hole in the wall and insert a wall anchor. Use a drill to drill a hole in the wall where you'd like your deck to be hung. Then, insert a plastic wall anchor into the hole to ensure that it effectively holds the weight of the deck.^[6]
   
2. Secure your deck display to the wall with a screw. Your deck display should come with a screw. Hold the display against the wall and line up the hole at the center with the hole you drilled in the wall. Use a drill or screwdriver to screw the screw into the wall through the hole in the display.^[7]
   
3. Twist the bolts towards the wall and slide your board onto the display. Once the display is secured to the wall, twist the 2 bolts that came with the display on each of the posts sticking out from the display. Then, align the 2 screw holes nearest to the end of your deck with the posts and slide it on.^[8]
   
4. Twist the T nuts onto the display. Twist the 2 T nuts that came with the display onto either post until they're snug against the deck. This should securely hold the deck in place and keep any part of it from touching the wall.^[9]
   

[Edit]Using a Rope to Store a Skateboard on a Wall

1. Cut a piece of thick rope. Get a strong, durable rope that won't break over time under the weight of your skateboard. Opt for a rope that's at least in diameter for best results. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure about and use a sharp knife to cut the rope at this point.^[10]
   
2. Tie a knot on each end of the rope and burn them. Tie a simple knot each end of your piece of rope and pull the ends tight. Carefully hold a lighter just under 1 end for a couple of seconds to burn it, and then repeat this process of the other end. This should help to keep the ends of the rope from fraying.^[11]
   
3. Mark where you want to hang the skateboard on your wall. Use a pencil and a ruler to mark 2 horizontal lines on your wall. These lines should be equal in height but about apart.^[12]
   
4. Push screws through the knots and screw them into the wall. Push a screw through the center of 1 of the knots and screw it into 1 of your marked spots with a screwdriver. Repeat this on the other side. Then, you can hang up your board vertically on the rope by 1 of its trucks.^[13]
   

[Edit]Warnings

• You may hurt yourself if you aren't familiar with working with tools. Be careful, and make sure to ask for someone's help if you need to.
• Take safety precautions when handling fire to prevent injuries and other fire-related accidents.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Hanging a Skateboard Deck with Fishing Line

• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Fishing line
• Scissors
• Hammer
• Nail
• Measuring tape (optional)
• Pencil (optional)
• Hooks (optional)

[Edit]Using Wall Mounts to Display Skateboard Decks

• Drill
• Wall anchor
• Deck display
• Screw
• Bolts
• T nuts

[Edit]Using a Rope to Store a Skateboard on a Wall

• Rope
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Sharp knife
• Lighter
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Screws
• Screwdriver

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJnTtLXCrHQ&feature=youtu.be&t=36s
2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8oEA7MDWJQ&feature=youtu.be&t=2m
3. ↑ https://fieldey.wordpress.com/2014/10/21/how-to-hang-a-skateboard-in-3-ways/
4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8oEA7MDWJQ&feature=youtu.be&t=1m28s
5. ↑ http://skateszone.com/how-to-hang-a-skateboard-on-the-wall/
6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NLsPMy_QNc&feature=youtu.be&t=23s
7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NLsPMy_QNc&feature=youtu.be&t=41s
8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NLsPMy_QNc&feature=youtu.be&t=1m5s
9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NLsPMy_QNc&feature=youtu.be&t=1m12s
10. ↑ http://skateszone.com/how-to-hang-a-skateboard-on-the-wall/
11. ↑ http://skateszone.com/how-to-hang-a-skateboard-on-the-wall/
12. ↑ http://skateszone.com/how-to-hang-a-skateboard-on-the-wall/
13. ↑ http://skateszone.com/how-to-hang-a-skateboard-on-the-wall/

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How to Freeze Apples

If you want to freeze your apples to use later on, there's a super easy way to store them. Apples are generally peeled, sliced, and cored before being frozen, and they should be preserved using either lemon juice, salt water, or fruit preserver. By placing your apples in a freezer-safe container, your slices will stay tasty for up to a year.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Peeling and Slicing the Apples

1. Wash the apples under clean running water. Turn on the faucet and place the apple underneath, using your fingers to scrub the apple gently to remove any surface dirt. Once the apple is clean, dry it off with a paper towel or clean cloth.
   
   
   • Remove any produce stickers from the apple as well.
2. Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler. Be careful when using the peeler and go slowly, starting at the stem and working your way around the apple in a circle. Remove all of the skin so that the apple is ready to be sliced. Repeat this process for however many apples you’re using.^[1]
   
   
   • If you don’t have a vegetable peeler, you can use a paring knife.
3. Remove the core with a sharp cutting knife. Cut the apples in fourths with the cuts going lengthwise at the stem. Use the knife to carefully cut out the core of each slice so that there aren’t any seeds left.^[2]
   
   
   • Core the apples on a cutting board to make the process easier.
4. Slice the apple sections into smaller pieces perfect for freezing. How many slices you have depends on personal preference, but cutting the apple into 8-12 slices is a good size. You can slice them using an apple slicer (which also removes the core), or you can use a knife and cut the apple into slices yourself.^[3]
   
   
   • Place the apple sections on a cutting board when you’re slicing them.
   • Cut the apple into thin slices perfect for an apple pie, or cut them into square chunks to put in smoothies.

[Edit]Preserving the Apples

1. Preserve the apples as soon as you peel and slice them. This prevents the apples from browning too quickly. Choose which way you want to preserve the apples, whether it's using lemon juice, soaking them in salt water, or using a fruit preserver.
   
   
2. Use lemon juice to keep the apple slices from browning. Combine of water with of lemon juice in a bowl, stirring it thoroughly with a spoon. Put the apple slices in the bowl and let them sit in the lemon juice and water for 5 minutes.^[4]
   
   
   • Make sure all of the slices are submerged in the lemon juice mixture at some point.
   • Soaking the apples in the lemon juice and water mixture shouldn't alter the taste very much.
   • The ascorbic acid is what helps the lemon juice prevent browning.
3. Soak the apples in salt water to keep the apples fresh. Pour of room temperature or warm water into a bowl along with of salt (table salt is fine). Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves, and then add the apple slices. Let the apples sit in the salt water for a few minutes before taking them out.
   
   
   • Make sure to evenly coat each slice with the salt water to ensure they stay fresh.
   • The salt acts as a preservative, prolonging the amount of time you can store the apple slices without them going bad or getting freezer burn.
   • Once the apples are thawed, they may have a slightly salty taste. Rinsing the apples under clean running water may help with the salty flavor.
4. Sprinkle the slices with a fruit preserver to ensure they store well. Purchase a fruit preserver from a grocery store and follow the directions on the container to cover the apples. These most often come in a powder form, so apply the fruit preserver in an even coat making sure to cover both sides of every slice.^[5]
   
   • Fruit preservers should not alter the taste of the apples.

[Edit]Freezing the Apple Slices

1. Drain the apple slices in a colander if you soaked them. If the apple slices were put in a liquid to sit for a few minutes, pour the bowl of apples into a colander to drain out the liquid. Shake the colander lightly to ensure all of the liquid gets strained.^[6]
   
   
   • Don’t rinse the slices after they’ve been treated, as you don’t want to remove the lemon juice, salt water, or fruit preserver.
2. Spread the slices out on a baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the slices from sticking to the pan. Place each apple slice on the parchment paper so that they’re lying flat and are evenly spaced out.^[7]
   
   
   • It’s important that the apple slices aren’t touching each other on the baking sheet, or they’ll stick together when frozen.
3. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-3 hours. Make sure the baking tray is put into the freezer lying flat so that the apple slices don’t slide off. Leave the slices in the freezer for a little over an hour if the slices are super thin, or for about 3 hours for thicker slices.^[8]
   
   
   • Freezing the slices separately helps prevent them from sticking together when you put them in a bag in the freezer.
4. Remove the apples from the tray and put them in a sealed container. Once the slices are frozen individually, place them in a freezer-safe plastic bag or in a hard plastic container. Make sure you remove as much air as possible from the plastic bag or container to help prevent freezer burn.^[9]
   
   
   • Write the date on the container before putting it in the freezer, as well as something like “Apple slices” so you remember what the food is.
   • Remove the apple slices from the parchment paper using your fingers or a spatula.
5. Store the apple slices in a freezer for up to a year. With your apple slices sealed off in a freezer-safe container, they should last several months to a year. Try to use the apple slices before freezer burn starts to form for the best taste.^[10]
   
   
   • To defrost the apples, place the sealed container in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or put them in a bowl of water for 1 hour or less.
   • If you're only planning on using a portion of the apples, remove only that portion from the freezer so you're not thawing and refreezing them.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Avoid freezing apples with lots of bruises or rotten sections in them.
• The texture and taste of an apple will change when you freeze it, but some varieties hold up better than others. Sweet apples, like Fuji and Gala varieties, maintain their taste better than tart apples while pie apples, like Golden Delicious and Granny Smith, maintain their texture better than mealy apples, like the Red Delicious.
• Frozen apples are perfect for making things like smoothies, apple pie, or muffins.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Vegetable peeler or paring knife
• Sharp cutting knife
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cutting board
• Large spoon
• Large bowl
• Flat spatula (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Salt (optional)
• Fruit preserver (optional)
• Freezer-safe plastic bags or containers

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/recipes/how-to/preserving-canning/how-to-freeze-apples/
2. ↑ https://sweetpeasandsaffron.com/how-to-freeze-apples/
3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISnR3fUAzEw
4. ↑ https://sweetpeasandsaffron.com/how-to-freeze-apples/
5. ↑ https://www.simplycanning.com/freezing-apples.html
6. ↑ https://www.southernplate.com/freezing-apples-and-what-the-old-folks-taught-me/
7. ↑ https://www.stemilt.com/stem-blog/freezing-apples/
8. ↑ https://www.stemilt.com/stem-blog/freezing-apples/
9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISnR3fUAzEw
10. ↑ https://sweetpeasandsaffron.com/how-to-freeze-apples/

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How to Fold a Shirt for Travel

There are many ways to fold a shirt, and when you are traveling, you may want to reduce wrinkles or save space. Try folding your shirts together to reduce wrinkles or rolling up your shirts to save space. You’ll be ready for your vacation or business trip in no time!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Folding Your Dress Shirts

1. Find a flat surface and lay out your dress shirt. Use a surface like a table, chair seat, or bed. Smooth out the back of your shirt, so there are no wrinkles.^[1]
   
2. Button up your shirt. You can button all of the buttons, or just do the top, bottom, and center button. Either choice will keep your shirts straight and cut down on wrinkles as you pack.^[2]
   
   
3. Grasp one of your sleeves and fold it towards the center of your shirt. Make sure your shirt is face down before you make this fold. Your fold line will be just before your shirt’s collar, starting at the center of the shoulder. Your shirt should have about ⅓ of the front folded over top of the back.^[3]
   
   
   • You can start with either the left or right sleeve.
4. Fold your other sleeve towards the center, just like the first one. Mirror your movements for the first sleeve. Fold the other sleeve towards the center so your fold is made near the shoulder.^[4]
   
   
5. Fold your sleeve forward, creating another fold. After your sleeve is positioned on the back of your shirt, pinch the top and the bottom of your sleeve. Fold your sleeve on top of the rest of your sleeve. Make this fold at an angle, forming a broad “V” shape with your fold.^[5]
   
   
   • Your sleeve’s folds should meet right around the shirt’s collar, laying flat at the seam.
   • Do this for both the left and right sleeves.
6. Hold the tail of your shirt with 2 hands and fold the shirt lengthwise. You can make 1 or 2 folds, based on the length of your shirt. For shorter shirts, make your fold from the bottom up, so the bottom edge rests below the collar. For longer shirts, make 2 folds from the bottom, so your folds are stacked on top of each other.^[6]
   
   
7. Flip over your folded shirt so it faces the front, and store in your bag. Repeat this for all of your dress shirts, and you’ll be ready to travel.^[7]
   

[Edit]Avoiding Wrinkles By Folding Shirts Together

1. Lay one of your shirts flat, with the back facing you. Use a flat surface, like a table. If you are using a dress shirt with buttons, you should button them up.^[8]
   
   • You can use both dress and T-shirts.
2. Place your finger at the neckline of your shirt and fold your sleeves. This will form a straight line down the edge of your shirt. You can do this for either short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirts.^[9]
   
   
3. Move the left sleeve to the fold line you created. This will fold your sleeve on top of the back of your shirt.^[10]
   
   
   • If you are folding a short-sleeved shirt, your sleeve will fold onto the top third of your shirt.
   • For longer sleeves, your sleeves will line the length of your shirt.
4. Fold in your right sleeve like you folded the left, so it lays flat. Now both of your sleeves should be lying flat on top of the back of your shirt.^[11]
   
   
   • You can smooth out the surface of your shirt, so the shirt is perfectly flat and wrinkle-free.
5. Place your second folded shirt on top of your first shirt. Place your shirt towards the bottom of your first shirt, though leave a 3-5 inches at the tail of your shirt.^[12]
   
   
   • Make sure you fold your second shirt before you fold it into the first shirt.
6. Sandwich your second shirt in between both halves of your first shirt. Fold your first shirt around your second shirt. Your second shirt should now be in between the top and bottom half of your first shirt.^[13]
   
   
7. Flip your shirts over so they face the front. Now you can pack your shirts into your suitcase. This technique cuts down on wrinkles, so you won’t have to worry about an iron while traveling.^[14]
   
   • It is helpful to still hang up or lay out your clothes after you reach your destination. Folding your shirts with this method will prevent wrinkles, but they can still form from the few folds you do make.

[Edit]Saving Space by Rolling Your Clothes

1. Lay your shirt flat and face up. You want a flat surface so you can make tight, neat rolls.^[15]
   
2. Take the bottom of your shirt and fold it about up. This will create a “pocket” which you will tuck the body of your shirt into.^[16]
   
   
   • You can also roll your shirts without creating a fold from the bottom.
3. Fold your shirt into thirds. Pinch your sleeve and shirt bottom, and fold it into the center. Do this for both the left and the right sleeve, dividing your shirt into thirds.^[17]
   
   
   • You can start with either the left or right sleeve, whichever you prefer.
4. Fold your sleeves over the center of your shirt. This will tuck in your sleeves, and your shirt will look like one, thin rectangle.^[18]
   
   
   • Try to make these folds as flat and secure as possible, to help you roll up the shirt.
5. Roll up your shirt neatly and tightly, starting at the collar. Hold the sides of your rectangle, fold the edge on top of the shirt, and roll the body of your shirt over top. Leave minimal space in between your rolls to keep them tight.^[19]
   
   
   • It is okay if you have to roll your shirt over again to make sure it is neat. You want your shirts to roll up into a small, compact bundle.
6. Tuck the edge of your rolled shirt into your bottom fold. Roll your shirt up to the bottom, and place the bottom fold over top of your rolled up shirt, tucking it in. This will keep your shirt from unrolling as you pack.^[20]
   
   
   • You can also roll up your shirts without tucking them into the bottom of your shirt. The tuck helps keep the shirt securely rolled, but it is optional.
7. Place all of your rolled shirts at the bottom of your suitcase. This will create an even, level base. Pack the rest of your clothes over top your rolled shirts.
   
   • You can also roll up your other clothing, like your pants and sweaters.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Try using the permanent press cycle when drying your clothes to avoid wrinkles.
• Starch and iron your shirts before you fold, to keep your shirts from wrinkling after you fold them.

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ [v161217_b01]. 16 December 2020.
2. ↑ [v161217_b01]. 16 December 2020.
3. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/fold-dress-shirt
4. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/fold-dress-shirt
5. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/fold-dress-shirt
6. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing-care/fold-dress-shirt
7. ↑ [v161217_b01]. 16 December 2020.
8. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
9. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
10. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
11. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
12. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
13. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
14. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/10/16/how-to-pack-a-bag-when-traveling/
15. ↑ https://www.realmenrealstyle.com/fold-t-shirt/
16. ↑ https://herpackinglist.com/2013/09/rolling-vs-folding/
17. ↑ https://herpackinglist.com/2013/09/rolling-vs-folding/
18. ↑ https://herpackinglist.com/2013/09/rolling-vs-folding/
19. ↑ https://herpackinglist.com/2013/09/rolling-vs-folding/
20. ↑ https://herpackinglist.com/2013/09/rolling-vs-folding/

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How to Clean a Laptop

All computers get dirty over time. However, laptops tend to need cleaning more often because of how they are handled. Particularly if you frequently travel with your laptop, you probably want to clean it at least once a month. A buildup of dirt and grime, particularly on the screen and the keys, can impair your laptop's functioning. Always make sure you shut down your laptop and disconnect it from any power source before you start cleaning it. If possible, you should also remove the battery.^[1]

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Wiping the Screen

1. Clear surface dust with a microfiber cloth. Fold the cloth and rub it gently across the full width of your screen, back and forth. You may want to brace the screen with your other hand so it doesn't move while you're cleaning it.^[2]
   
   • Don't press hard into the screen or try to scratch off stubborn spots – you could damage your screen. Use only the lightest pressure to wipe off surface dust.
2. Use a damp sponge for dirt and grime. Wet a clean sponge, then squeeze it out until it is almost dry. Use purified or distilled water rather than tap water, which can leave mineral streaks on your screen. Wipe your screen gently, using light pressure – do not scrub.^[3]
   
   • You can also use a pre-moistened cleaning wipe. Just make sure it doesn't contain harsh cleansing agents such as ammonia or bleach, which may damage your screen.
   • Water can drip into your laptop and damage internal components, so make extra sure you've squeezed all excess liquid out.
   • For particularly stubborn spots, add just a drop of gentle dish soap to the water. If you have a touchscreen, consult your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website to determine what cleaning agents are safe for the finish.
3. Invest in a screen-cleaning kit for dirtier screens. You can buy screen-cleaning kits online or at any store that sells electronics. These kits include a cleaner specially designed for laptop screens and usually come with their own microfiber cloth. If you have a touchscreen, check to make sure the kit is listed as safe for touchscreens.^[4]
   
   • Do not use regular glass cleaners, particularly those that contain ammonia, on any laptop screen. They can damage the screen.
4. Polish in a circular motion to remove streaks. After you're done cleaning, take your microfiber cloth and gently rub your screen in a circular motion. This will eliminate any streaks or particles the sponge left behind.^[5]
   
   • Start at a top corner and proceed in tight circles across the top of your screen, then back and forth until you get to the bottom.

[Edit]Cleaning the Keyboard

1. Shake the loose dust out of your keyboard. Get a good grip on the sides of your laptop and turn it upside down with the screen open. Shake the machine gently to dislodge crumbs and larger particles. You may also want to tilt it to one side, then another, to free debris stuck under keys.^[6]
   
   • If you haven't cleaned your laptop in a while, or if you regularly eat while using your laptop, shake it over a trashcan to avoid making more of a mess.
   • If you've already cleaned your screen, you may want to give it another wipe-down with your microfiber cloth after you do this. Dust from the keyboard may end up on the screen.
2. Vacuum loose dust and hair from the keyboard. If you have a small handheld vacuum, use the smallest attachment to vacuum the debris from your keyboard without harming your laptop. Move the attachment slowly across the keyboard, going over each row from the top of the keyboard to the bottom.^[7]
   
   • You can also use a can of compressed air. However, if you do, tilt your keyboard at an angle so that you're forcing the dust out of your keyboard. If you blow the compressed air directly into the keyboard, you'll just blow the dust and debris further inside. This is especially true for MacBook keyboards, which are open to the inside of the machine.^[8]
3. Use a pencil eraser to remove grime from the keycaps. If you look at the keys from an angle, you will be able to see where grime has built up on the keycaps from your fingers. Take your pencil eraser and gently rub to get rid of this build-up.^[9]
   
   • After you use the pencil eraser, you may want to run the vacuum over the keys again, just to get rid of the stubble the eraser left behind.
4. Get between keys with a cotton swab. You may find that grime has built up between the keys as well. A cotton swab is small enough to clean these areas. If your keyboard is particularly grimy, dip the cotton swab in rubbing alcohol.^[10]
   
   • Take care not to get the cotton swab too wet. Don't press down too hard when you clean – you don't want the alcohol dripping underneath the keys into your machine.
   • A cotton swab dipped in alcohol also works for cleaning the tops of the keys, particularly if you have sticky grime that the eraser couldn't get.
5. Wipe down the keys with a slightly damp cloth. Use a microfiber cloth dampened with distilled water, or with a disinfecting mixture of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol. Thoroughly squeeze out all excess liquid before using the cloth on your keyboard. Rub lightly over the tops of the keys – do not press them in.^[11]
   
   • After you've used a slightly damp cloth, wipe the keys again with a completely dry cloth to remove all moisture.
6. Remove keys only if you know how to put them back on. Taking off the keycaps may be the only way to remove all grime captured beneath the keys. This is likely true if you've never cleaned your laptop, or if you frequently eat while using your laptop. However, keycaps can be tricky to remove and replace, depending on the design of your machine.^[12]
   
   • You may want to take a picture of your keyboard before you take the keys off, just so you have a reference for where to put them back on. Once all the keys are off, you may forget the order, especially for function keys.

[Edit]Shining the Case

1. Mix a gentle cleansing solution. Use purified or distilled water and a few drops of gentle dish soap. You can also use a mix of equal parts rubbing alcohol and purified or distilled water. Do not use regular household cleaners for your case, or any harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia.^[13]
   
   • If you use rubbing alcohol, take care not to get any on your laptop's screen. It can damage the anti-glare and scratch-resistant coatings on the screen.
2. Dip a sponge into your cleansing solution. Take a clean sponge and soak it in the cleansing solution, then wring it out until it is nearly completely dry. Make sure it no longer drips, even when you squeeze it. Rub the sponge gently over the outside surface of your laptop.^[14]
   
   • You can use the same sponge and cleansing solution to clean your laptop's touchpad.
   • Don't clean inside ports or vents with the sponge – you risk getting moisture inside your laptop and damaging its components.
3. Use cotton swabs to clean the gunk out of crevices. If your laptop case has seams and crevices, they may collect dirt and grime. A cotton swab dipped in your cleansing solution can get into these small areas.^[15]
   
   • As with the sponge, make sure the cotton swab is not too wet. Use light pressure to avoid squeezing moisture into the machine.
4. Dig out grime with a toothpick if necessary. If narrow crevices, ports, or vents are clogged up with dirt, use a toothpick to gently scrape the case and pull the grime out. Move the toothpick in an outward sweeping motion to avoid shoving grime further up into your machine.^[16]
   
   • Be gentle with the toothpick to avoid scratching the surface of your case. Hold it at an angle, like you would hold a pencil, rather than bearing down with the point.
5. Blow debris from ports with compressed air. Angle a can of compressed air so that it is blowing into and out of the port or vent you want to clear. Turn your laptop and blow from multiple angles to make sure you've cleaned thoroughly.^[17]
   
   • Never blow the compressed air directly into the port or vent. This will loosen the debris and send it deep inside your machine, where it could damage components.
6. Use rubbing alcohol for sticky residue. If you have particularly sticky or grimy spots on your case that can't be removed with gentle cleaning, use a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol directly on the spot.^[18] Make sure the cotton ball isn't too wet – you don't want rubbing alcohol running into your machine.^[19]
   
   • Use moderate pressure, rubbing repeatedly until the spot is gone.
   • If you previously had stickers on your laptop case, you may have more luck with an oil-based cleansing product, such as Goo Gone.
7. Polish the surface with a microfiber cloth. Once your case is clean, take your microfiber cloth and wipe the entire case, using a circular motion. This will remove any moisture as well as any streaks your cleaning may have left on the finish of your case.^[20]
   
   • Once your laptop case is clean, you may notice spots of grime that you didn't see before. Use a cotton swab or cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol to finish these last spots.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

• Use a hand sanitizer before touching your laptop to decrease the dirt and grime on the keyboard.^[21]

[Edit]Warnings

• Never spray cleaners directly onto any part of your computer. Spray a cloth or sponge first, then use that to gently clean your computer.^[22]
• Moisture and electronics do not mix. After cleaning your laptop, make sure every part of it is completely dry before plugging it into a power source or turning it on.^[23]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

• Handheld vacuum
• Compressed air (optional)
• Microfiber cloth
• Clean sponge
• Cotton swabs/cotton balls
• Pencil eraser
• Toothpicks
• Dish soap
• Rubbing alcohol
• Purified water

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Clean a Mouse Ball
• Maintain Your Computer
• Save a Laptop from Liquid Damage

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
2. ↑ [v161082_b01]. 26 July 2019.
3. ↑ https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-clean-a-laptop-screen/
4. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
5. ↑ https://www.pcworld.com/article/240921/how_to_clean_your_laptop_or_lcd_monitor.html
6. ↑ https://www.popsci.com/clean-your-keyboard-without-breaking-it
7. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
8. ↑ https://www.popsci.com/clean-your-keyboard-without-breaking-it
9. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
10. ↑ https://www.popsci.com/clean-your-keyboard-without-breaking-it
11. ↑ https://www.popsci.com/clean-your-keyboard-without-breaking-it
12. ↑ https://www.popsci.com/clean-your-keyboard-without-breaking-it
13. ↑ [v161082_b01]. 26 July 2019.
14. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
15. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
16. ↑ https://www.windowscentral.com/how-clean-and-disinfect-your-laptop
17. ↑ https://www.windowscentral.com/how-clean-and-disinfect-your-laptop
18. ↑ [v161082_b01]. 26 July 2019.
19. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
20. ↑ https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-clean-your-laptops-case-screen-and-keyboard/
21. ↑ https://www.windowscentral.com/how-clean-and-disinfect-your-laptop
22. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204172
23. ↑ https://www.pcworld.com/article/240921/how_to_clean_your_laptop_or_lcd_monitor.html

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How to Grow Coneflowers

Colorful, striking, and extremely hardy, coneflowers (Echinacea) are the perfect summer perennial for your garden. They're easy to care for regardless of your experience level and attract helpful pollinators like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. If you're wondering how to grow this vibrant wildflower in your garden, you've come to the right place! Our complete guide will show you everything you need to know about coneflower planting, growth, and care.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Creating the Right Conditions for Coneflowers

1. Plant your coneflowers in the spring.^[1] It's safe to plant coneflowers once the danger of frost has fully passed, but they can be cultivated throughout the rest of spring and early summer as well.^[2] Coneflowers enjoy a long flowering season, typically blooming from mid-summer into the fall.
   
   • Seeds can be started inside the house 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost or outside once the soil has warmed to around (usually in the spring).^[3]
   • If you're dividing or transplanting existing coneflowers in your garden, do it in the spring or fall.
2. Pick a spot that offers full sun. Coneflowers are happiest when they have access to direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours each day. Because they're heat resistant, you won't have to worry about them getting damaged or dried out in the sun. However, coneflowers can also tolerate light shade if necessary.^[4]
   
   • If they get too much shade, your coneflowers will be vulnerable to powdery mildew, and you'll notice they have droopy stems.
3. Make sure the garden has well-drained soil and compost. Coneflowers do best with well-drained (not overly wet) soil rich in organic matter. Once you’ve picked an ideal spot, loosen the soil with a garden fork and mix in a to layer of compost so your coneflowers have plenty of nutrients.^[5]
   
   • To check your soil's drainage, dig a hole that's about wide and deep. Fill it with water and let it drain completely before filling the hole again. Monitor the water level this time: if your soil is well-drained, the water level will drop by every hour.
   • Coneflowers are hardy flowers that can flourish in a wide range of conditions, so it's okay if your soil isn't perfect. Plus, adding compost improves your soil's drainage.
4. Select a type of coneflower to grow. Purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) are the traditional purple blooms you probably picture when you think of coneflowers. However, hybridized versions of purpurea also come in vibrant red, orange, and pink shades. These large flowers can grow to be tall and wide.^[6] Other varieties include:
   
   • Yellow coneflowers (Echinacea paradoxa) are bright blooms that can be grown next to other types of coneflower or grown separately. They grow in multi-stemmed clumps that can be up to tall and wide.
   • Narrow-leaved coneflowers (Echinacea angustifolia) work well in small spots. This compact coneflower stays between - tall and wide. Its pink petals are paler than those of the purple coneflower.
5. Place coneflowers next to other perennials. You can create a healthy and colorful garden by pairing coneflowers with plants that attract pollinators and have similar needs. Coneflowers are perennials, which are plants that grow back year after year, so other perennials are easy to grow in the same space.
   
   • Meadow perennials like bee balm, black-eyed susans, lavender, asters, lupines, and larkspur are all great choices to pair with coneflowers.^[7]

[Edit]Planting Coneflowers

1. Space out the coneflowers to be to apart. Since full-grown coneflower plants will grow quite a bit—anywhere from to wide, and up to , it’s important to give them space to grow. Make sure there’s enough room in your garden for all of the coneflowers that you want to plant.^[8]
   
   • If space gets tight, consider growing a more compact variety like narrow-leaved coneflowers.
2. Bury coneflower plants to the top of their roots and water them. Dig a hole big enough for the plant; if the coneflower came in a pot, the hole's width should be twice the pot's diameter. Then, place the plant in the hole, so its root ball is even with the soil surface. Fill in the rest of the soil. When you're done, water the coneflower generously to encourage deep roots.^[9]
   
   • Digging such a wide hole is helpful because it gives the coneflower's roots space to spread and grow.
   • Immediately after planting and watering the coneflowers, apply a thin layer of mulch and compost over the soil's surface to prevent weeds.
3. Sow coneflower seeds as an alternative to buying small plants. Place seeds less than underground—as seeds, coneflowers don't need to be far below the soil's surface. However, seeds need plenty of space to grow, so plant them roughly apart from one other.
   
   • Growing coneflowers as plants bought from a nursery is most common, but coneflower seeds are also easy to care for. You can buy them, or collect them from coneflower plants in bloom.
   • Remember that seeds collected from coneflower plants will take 2 years of growth before flowering.^[10]
4. Grow coneflowers inside with a to pot. That may seem big for a pot, but your coneflowers will need room to grow! First, spread crushed gravel across the bottom of the pot for drainage. Then, fill the pot about halfway full with potting soil. Place your coneflower inside the pot so that its roots are an inch below the pot's rim, and then fill it in with soil.^[11]
   
   • Once you're done planting, water the coneflower just like you would if it was in the ground.
   • Make sure that any pot you pick has drainage holes since coneflowers like to live in drier soil.
   • The container's material doesn't matter as much as its size. Coneflowers can handle heat, so even metal is fine.

[Edit]Caring for Coneflowers

1. Give your coneflowers of water per week. You likely won't have to water the plants manually during weeks of rain. Keep up with weekly watering during dry spells, applying water directly to the base of the coneflower; top-down watering onto its leaves can cause fungal growth.^[12]
   
   • Because they're drought-resistant, coneflowers don't need to be constantly watered.^[13] In fact, they may be damaged if their roots get too soaked.
   • Hybrid species of coneflowers may need more frequent watering to live healthy lives.
2. Keep the soil free of weeds. Coneflowers don't compete well for nutrients in the soil, so make sure that weeds aren't growing around your flowers and stealing their food. Check your garden regularly throughout the spring and summer, pulling up weeds by their roots as they grow.^[14]
   
   • Apply a thin layer of mulch and compost each spring. This retains moisture and discourages weeds from growing in the area, which will make it easier for you to monitor your coneflowers in the summer.
3. Spray coneflowers with neem oil to remove pests. Even though coneflowers' spiny stems protect them from deer and other large animals, insects like aphids can still cause problems. Lightly spread neem oil, which can be bought as a spray, onto the surface of your coneflowers. It's an effective and natural insecticide, so it won't hurt your garden.
   
4. Deadhead your coneflowers throughout summer and fall. "Deadheading" is snipping a flower that has already bloomed, so it doesn't devote energy to setting seeds—and instead, the plant produces more flowers. When you see flowers start to wither after blooming during the growing season, remove them from the plant.^[15] This will prolong the amount of time your coneflower spends flowering as a whole!^[16]
   
5. Prune back coneflowers to the ground in late fall or early spring. Once the growing season is finished, either before or after winter, trim back your coneflowers all the way to the ground. Use trimmers to cut it at its base, just above the first leaf.^[17] Regardless of when you prune them, your coneflowers will spring right back up when the next growing season comes around!
   

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://garden.org/learn/howto/grow/coneflowers/
2. ↑ [v161590_b01]. 22 September 2020.
3. ↑ http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene1d08.html
4. ↑ https://grownative.org/native_plants/purple-coneflower/
5. ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2021/05/27/coneflower-echinacea-how-to-grow/
6. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/a20707261/grow-echinacea/
7. ↑ https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/best-plants-for-a-meadow-garden-pictures
8. ↑ ​​https://garden.org/learn/howto/grow/coneflowers/
9. ↑ https://gardentherapy.ca/echinacea-guide-planting-pruning-and-caring-for-coneflowers/
10. ↑ http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene1d08.html
11. ↑ https://gardenerspath.com/plants/flowers/grow-coneflowers-containers/
12. ↑ https://www.gardenloversclub.com/ornamental/flowers/coneflower/growing-coneflower/
13. ↑ [v161590_b01]. 22 September 2020.
14. ↑ https://garden.org/learn/howto/grow/coneflowers/
15. ↑ [v161590_b01]. 22 September 2020.
16. ↑ http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene1d08.html
17. ↑ https://www.gardenista.com/posts/landscaping-101-how-to-deadhead-flowers-annuals-perennials/

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