All Macs have lithium batteries, and many modern Windows computers also use lithium batteries. [1] X Research source You shouldn’t perform this process on a computer with a non-removable battery pack, as doing so will either require you to remove the battery (which can void your computer’s warranty) or freeze the whole computer (which will ruin your computer).

Avoid using a regular plastic bag for this, as the battery may accumulate moisture in such a bag.

You can leave the battery in for as long as 12 hours, but leaving it in any longer than that may cause the battery to leak.

For example, if your battery indicator says you have 50% charge but your computer shuts down shortly after, you should recalibrate your battery.

Never disconnect the wall socket side of the charger first, as plugging it back in while the charger is connected to the laptop could damage your computer.

Skip this step for a lithium battery.

You don’t want to perform this method too often; completely draining and then recharging most laptop batteries repeatedly can reduce the overall lifespan of the battery by 30%.

Never disconnect the wall socket side of the charger first, as plugging it back in while the charger is connected to the laptop could damage your computer.

Skip this step if you have a lithium battery.

This process will be more effective if you leave your laptop off for as long as possible.

Ideally, you’ll only ever discharge your laptop’s battery to around 20%. This will allow for over 2000 discharges before you hit the 70% battery life mark. To keep your battery in good working order, let it discharge down to about 20% battery once a month or so. That allows the chemicals inside the battery to get mixed up, so it will actually last longer than if you leave your laptop plugged in all the time. [4] X Expert Source Luigi OppidoComputer & Tech Specialist Expert Interview. 1 April 2020.

You may also want to place the laptop on a flat, cool surface such as a desk; counterintuitively, using your laptop in your lap may prevent proper circulation, and your body temperature may also bring up the laptop’s overall temperature.

Batteries can be stored in this condition for several months before needing a charge. Never store lithium batteries at anything other than 100% charge.

Heat can shorten the battery’s lifespan, so this is an optimal step if you often use your laptop for high-power activities.