There’s nothing like a new gadget. Taking a new smartphone, tablet or laptop out of the box is the closest an adult can get to being a kid on Christmas. These days, we rely on our electronic devices for just about everything – work, school, travel, entertainment and nearly every other aspect of your life. Naturally, you want your devices to work like new for as long as possible. But some bad habits can actually shorten the lifespan of your tech. The good news is that these bad habits are easy to change. We’ve gathered five expert tips on how to keep your devices working longer and better.

Bad habit 1: Not using the manufacturer's chargers and cords

Cheap, off-brand chargers may seem appealing, especially when your battery is running low and you’re away from home. But many of these knockoff chargers haven’t gone through the same rigorous testing as official chargers from brands like Apple or Samsung. Not only are they less efficient at charging your battery, but they can also be dangerous, potentially causing your device to overheat or even catch fire.

Here’s what to do instead:

• Use chargers and cords made specifically for your device.
• Purchase from approved retailers to ensure product quality and safety.
• Avoid off-brand and counterfeit chargers, which can be harmful.