To keep my computer running smoothly, in addition to the standard anti-spyware and anti-virus scans, I like to use C Cleaner. It's free. It's wonderful.
I have found the best item for cleaning around keys on the computer. A clean, sponge eyeshadow applicator. I always have extras of these (I use brushes instead).
Once my computer started automatically jettisoning information. The only way to stop it was to quickly press the OFF button. When this started, I hired a computer repair person to take a look at it.
My computer's cordless mouse was not working right. I opened it and used a Q tip dipped in alcohol to clean the little roller bars and ball. The alcohol dries very fast. I put it back together and now it works like brand new. Of course, always check the battery too.
If you have a problem with dust in your house, it's worth it to blow the dust from your computer. You have to unscrew and remove your CPU casing (make sure the power is OFF first) and then use the blower to clear any dust inside the PC.
Use your hair dryer on the cool setting to clean your computer keyboard instead of spending money on expensive canned air. Turn the keyboard upside down and blow the air up into it. I clean the tower (CPU) now and then as well. Dust and hair accumulate around the fan and vents can cause all sorts of problems, such as over-heating.
