5 ways to declutter your devices
With spring right around the corner, you may have already set your clean-out schedule. Whether that’s throwing away old clothes, going through cupboards that you haven’t rummaged through in a while, or making donation bags of things you don’t need.
But have you ever stopped to think that with the amount of time we spend on our digital devices, that they’d need a clean-out too? Luckily, the tech experts at ASUS have shared a few tips and tricks to organise your digital life and get rid of clutter.
Laptops and Desktops:
1. Declutter your desktop
If your desktop is looking manic and in need of some organisation, then it’s time to decide what you need to keep and what you want to part ways with. For files that you don’t need anymore, hold CTRL (for Windows) or Command (for Apple iOS) and click on all the files that you want to delete. This allows you to select multiple files at once. Then lastly, drag and drop them into the recycle bin and you’ve successfully cleared your desktop.
For files that you need, make separate folders and categorise them so you know what goes where. For example, have all your finances in one folder and your to-do lists in the other. To do this, right-click on your desktop, select New from the drop-down menu and then choose Folder. Label the folder and then drag your files into it and it’s as easy as that.
2. Erase old downloads
With the introduction of streaming services such as Netflix and Spotify, there’s simply no need to keep a large number of files on your device. Not only do they take up space, but they can slow down your laptop or computer as well. So, if you have old movies, music or videos that you know you don’t need to hang onto, throw them in the recycling bin and your device will thank you.
3. Try the in-built cleaner
If your laptop is constantly showing messages for low storage capacity, then it may be the number of unnecessary files on your device. If you’re on a Windows device, then search for “Disk Clean-up”, follow the prompts and then allow the cleaner to get rid of any unnecessary files.
Tablets and Phones:
4. Categorise your applications
Categorising applications will make sure your phone screen always remains neat and organised. The best way to do this is to leave your four most used apps on the home screen, and the remainders in their respective folders such as social media, shopping, games, photos etc.
5. Back up photos
Some of us can have over 1000 photos on our phones, and while they bring back many memories, chances are you hardly go back and look at them. Which is why, instead of letting them sit on your phone, back them up on an external hard drive. Not only will it free up space, but your photos will be kept safe also.