How to keep your computer happy

Q. What solution can I apply to keep my computer clean? - Cecilia Picar

A. Dusting your computer keyboard is best done with the help of a little paintbrush that’s thick enough to sweep away piles of dust that may have accumulated.

It must also be small enough to get to all the crevices in between the keys.

Your mouse can be taken apart and cleaned with a cotton swab that’s been dipped in alcohol.

Be sure not to misplace the little screws so that you can easily put the mouse back together again after cleaning.

Your monitor can be cleaned with a piece of lint-free cloth or one that comes with anti-static fluid.

Do this every few weeks and your computer will keep humming happily!

Where’s The Zeolite?

Q. Dear Molly, I am an avid fan of your column. It’s really very helpful. I would like to know where can I buy the Zeolite and leather cleaner you mentioned a few weeks ago. Are they very expensive? Thanks a lot and more power to you. - Susan F. Cruz, PNB Capital and Investment Corporation

A. Though I’m not sure of an exact source, Zeolite can be found in many home stores or health shops. It’s a popular, natural air neutralizer that comes in handy mesh bags that you can hang or set anywhere inside your home. Leather cleaning creams and conditioners are most probably available in shoe stores or accessory (i.e., belts, suitcases) valets where leather products are sold. I believe that both items are under P150.

* * * Pet Does It On Our Carpet

Q. Hi, Molly! My brother has a four-month-old German Shepherd puppy that relieves herself on our carpet. How do we clean the carpet so it won’t stain and turn white? Please help! - Grace Garcia

A. Urine stains on a carpet are very difficult to clean up, especially once they’ve dried up. As soon as "accidents" happen, be sure to sponge the area with cold water to neutralize the smell and lift the fresh marks. Add a little mild ammonia to keep the carpet’s color from fading.

* * * Finding A Cure For Feet That Reek

Q. Hi Bon! My dorm mate’s feet smell. Although her feet are dry before she puts her socks on, they still smell. Her shoes have an odor, too. She has tried stuffing crumpled newspapers in her shoes, but to no avail. Since it’s getting warm here (Hong Kong), wearing sandals is an option, but she can’t wear sandals because of her dry, itchy soles and heels. I suspect she’s suffering from athlete’s foot. Any suggestions for curing this disease and eliminating the odor of both feet and shoes? I tried looking for an ointment here in HK but I can’t find it. Thank you in advance for your help. - Hazel Ho, Hong Kong SAR

A. Ask your friend to apply medicated powder to absorb any moisture that may accumulate in her shoes during the day. It may be dry in the morning, but as the day wears on, moisture and fungi can develop, which cause the smelly odor. She might have to apply powder again in the middle of the day to keep the situation under control. Consult a dermatologist for more serious athlete’s foot problems.

* * * Dreading Sweaty Palms

Q. I’m one of those girls born with sweaty hands. It’s hard and embarrassing, especially since I have cotillion practice every week and my partner has to hold my sweaty palms. Please help! Thank you for taking time to read this. - JC Aquino

A. Practicing dance routines with a new partner may be causing some tension and anxiety on your part. Your sweaty palms are a sign of overheating in your body. This can be relieved if you relax and calm down. Heightened stimulation causes your body to release some heat through sweating. It’s not a bad thing, but can you splash your face, neck and hands with cool water (or wipe with a cool towel) before practice? Or, take a cool drink? Try it.

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