Finally this is probably going to happen to everyone. If you have youngsters, pets, spooks or you are unlucky and uncoordinated naturally. Presuming that after the spill you do not see smoke, or hear the laptops death cries, the first things worth doing straight after the spill that can help you avoid an expensive computer fix is:
1) Power off the laptop - try to not move it yet.
2) Absorb the leftover liquid.
3) Unplug all devices from the laptop.
4) Take away the battery from the laptop without leaning the laptop if at all possible.
If water is what was spilled, then you might possibly be able to simply permit the laptop to sit under a fan for a day. If you are the patient type. If sticky drinks like coffee and soda is to blame then you will very probably have to open the case and clean within.
Removing the laptop case can be a bit more robust than you can realize so be sure to get directions from the makers web site and take notes or photographs as you progress with disassembly and reassembly.
Be certain to remove elements from within the case and check them as mandatory; drive RAM, cd / CD drive, and keyboard. The keyboard is infamous for not being the same after something is spilled on it. It could be unrepeatable but it is typically the least pricey part to replace. You need to only clean electronic equipment with denatured alcohol which can sometimes be bought for about $5 a liter. Allow all parts to dry before reassembly. Good luck and back up your info next time!