DIY Network

Cleaning Leather and Electronic Recycling Information Clean-Up Cleaning Leather and Electronic Recycling Information Clean-Up From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-130

If you carry a briefcase or any kind of leather bag to work, you'll look more professional if the bag is clean and free of scuffs and scratches (figure A).

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• To clean leather, wipe it with a slightly damp cloth that's been rubbed across a bar of moisturizing soap (figure B). Work into the leather but don't rinse, since the moisturizers will help condition the leather, Allow to dry, then buff with a soft cloth.

• Use hide food once or twice a year to make sure the leather stays supple. Rub it on and let it sit on the leather for at least 12 hours, then buff with a soft cloth. Mix 1 part vinegar to 2 parts linseed oil and store in a labeled jar with a lid (figure C). To use, shake well, then apply with a soft cloth. Buff into the leather to prevent the oil from staining clothes.
  

If you have a home office, two things that you probably rely heavily on are your computer and cell phone. As technology improves, these tools need to be updated. But what do you do with old computers and cell phones that are still in working order or can be fixed? Because computers contain toxins like lead and mercury, some states forbid disposing of them in landfills, and recycling centers may charge you if you want to drop off a computer. So consider donating these electronics to charity (figure D). Staff and volunteers can program them to fit the needs of specific charities. Just remember to delete all personal data, e-mails, documents, passwords and cookies. If you don't know how to do it, tech support can help.

The same goes for cell phones. Women's shelters can often use them, giving them to battered women to use in case of an emergency. Just remember to delete all your personal information.

Now there should be no excuses for being behind in your work. Although most people like to be organized, some people like to work with organized chaos. Once you clear out the clutter, however, you'll learn to love your clean space and probably won't go back to your disorganized ways.