Laptop covers are the best way to extend the life of your laptop, as well as imbue it with your personal style.  Most people who travel regularly with their laptop or bring it to meetings often have had the experience of getting up and not being able to identify theirs in a sea of similar models.  Still others may have dropped their laptop carrying case, resulting in damage that is not covered by a warranty and faced the prospect of buying an expensive replacement model.  In response to these common laptop related issues, many companies now manufacture laptop covers and skins that make laptops safer and more easily identifiable.  Look for them in stores that carry computers or on specialized websites.  They can be ordered to fit any model currently on the market.

One of the first accessories that any laptop owner should invest in is a protective laptop sleeve.  These are made of lightweight, durable material that will not add bulk to a computer but will protect it if dropped.  Many are available for under $20 and can be purchased almost anywhere to fit any computer.  Choose a sleeve in a primary color that will match your backpack or briefcase, or add some style with a bold pattern.  When shopping, give special consideration to those that are made of a thick neoprene, as they will be most effective in protecting a laptop computer from a potentially damaging fall.  Be aware that most do not feature handles, or compartments for the storage of cords and accessories, so they should be used to supplement, rather than take the place of, a laptop bag. 

Laptop cover skin is a great way to make your laptop computer reflect your personal style.  Skins can be purchased in almost any material or texture, from suede to vinyl, and are easy to affix to a computer.  Prices are generally dictated by the material from which they are made and whether the design you prefer is copyrighted.  (For example, those with the official logo of a sports team may cost more than a pattern.)  Most are sized to fit any standard laptop, and require nothing more for installation than removing the facing at the back of the panel.  Typically, there will be no added protection with the application of a vinyl or fabric skin, but it is an inexpensive way to make your computer easily identifiable.

A number of skin manufacturers also offer the customers the opportunity to design their own skin or decals to create unique laptop covers.  For a small fee, a favorite photo or sketch will be made into a vinyl decal that may be easily applied.  Costs differ based on the size, complexity, and number of colors in a design, so contact the maker for a quote.

                Laptop keyboard covers are the perfect safe guard for any laptop user. Cleaning a laptop keyboard is far more difficult than cleaning one for a desktop computer, and they cannot be replaced inexpensively if something is spilled that keeps them from functioning.  For these reasons, it is incredibly important to prevent foreign substances from becoming lodged in a laptop keyboard.  A laptop keyboard cover is a necessary precaution for anyone who eats or drinks while at the computer, or anyone who leaves it open and exposed to dust and moisture in the air.

Most laptop keyboard covers are made of a flexible plastic that is applied with a light adhesive.  They are kept on while the computer is in use and will not in any way impair the user’s typing speed or accuracy.  Often, laptop covers are priced under $20 and can be purchase in store or online from most office supply dealers.  As key and keyboard sizes are relatively standard, most options are one size fits all, which makes for easy shopping and ensures that you will find the right one for your needs quickly.  Covers will protect your keyboard from dust in the air as well as the errant spill.  There are not, however, impermeable, so it is still wise to avoid spilling liquids directly onto a laptop.

                Whether your goal is to protect or individualize your laptop, one of the available laptop covers is sure to fit your needs.  They are a small investment that can effectively add to the lifespan of your laptop computer.