It doesn't really matter how you lay it down as long as you aren't crushing any buttons (which is rare these days). Face down on cardboard, carpet, against a wall, against the couch, whatever. Make sure it's STABLE when you put it down. I typically put it on the carpet and lean it against the couch face first. But, back first, face first, whatever. It just doesn't matter as long as it is stable and nothing you are leaning it against can damage it.