Floppy disks need special care and handling, as they can get exposed to dirt, heat, and other environmental hazards. Such exposures tend to corrupt the floppy disks. The integrity of the data and software stored is lost. That is why each floppy disk is enclosed in its own protective cover. It also comes with a paper jacket. Some of the things you should observe while handling diskettes are:
- Store diskettes in their boxes.
- Hold a diskette always by the corner and write on labels with a felt-tipped pen (a pencil or ball-point pen can damage the disk if you press too hard).
- Do not place heavy objects on top of diskettes.
- Do not touch the exposed parts of the disk or bend it.
Microdisks have rigid plastic covers with metal shields that protect the disk from dirt and fingerprints. When you insert the disk into the disk drive, the computer automatically moves this shield aside to read the disk.
Whichever type of diskette you are using, it is important to store it in a safe place, away from dust, moisture, magnetism, and extreme temperatures.