Ditch “battery’s dead” stress

These savvy tips will ensure you’re never stuck with a dead laptop, camera or other gadget

Rechargeable batteries. When dust and grime build up on terminals of rechargeables, it can cause premature power drains. The save: Use a pencil eraser to gently rub the ends of each battery, then pop into gadgets.

A laptop battery. Letting it drain completely can strain the battery, lowering its life span. The save: Aim to recharge before the battery icon gets below 20 percent.

Disposable batteries: Heat speeds chemical reactions in alkaline batteries, slashing life span. The save: Store them at room temperature in their packaging so they don’t come in contact with metal, which can make them short-circuit.