Disinfect Your Cell Phone: This Is How You Clean Your Smartphone Properly
Have you ever thought about how many times you touch your smartphone in a day? Now, consider how often you clean it. Surprisingly, many of us don’t clean our phones as frequently as we should, despite them being a hotbed for germs. This guide will walk you through the steps to disinfect your smartphone effectively, ensuring it’s not just your hands that are clean, but also the device you use the most.
Why Should You Clean Your Smartphone?
Your smartphone is with you throughout the day. You use it while eating, after touching public surfaces, and even in the bathroom. Consequently, it can harbor bacteria and viruses, some of which can be harmful to your health. By keeping your phone clean, you reduce the risk of spreading these germs.
What You Need to Clean Your Smartphone
Before you start, ensure you have the right materials:
- Microfiber cloth: This will help avoid scratching your screen.
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% concentration): This is effective at killing germs.
- Water: You’ll use this to dilute the alcohol.
- Cotton swabs: These are useful for cleaning small crevices.
- Disinfectant wipes: Opt for ones that are safe for electronics.
- Air can: This is optional but helpful for removing dust from ports.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Smartphone
Step 1: Power Down Your Device
Before you do anything else, turn off your smartphone. This not only protects you but also your device during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Remove the Case
Take off any case or cover you might have on your smartphone. You’ll clean this separately.
Step 3: Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Mix one part water with one part isopropyl alcohol in a small spray bottle. Shake it gently to combine the ingredients.
Step 4: Start with the Exterior
Spray a bit of the solution onto the microfiber cloth, not directly on the phone. Gently wipe the front and back of your smartphone. Avoid getting moisture in any of the ports.
Step 5: Clean the Crevices
Dip a cotton swab into your cleaning solution and wring out any excess liquid. Carefully clean around the camera, buttons, and any other small spaces. This ensures you’re removing as much bacteria as possible.
Step 6: Disinfect the Case
While your phone is drying, take the same cleaning solution and a fresh microfiber cloth to wipe down your phone case. This is just as important as cleaning the phone itself since the case can also accumulate germs.
Step 7: Let Everything Dry
After cleaning, give your smartphone and case ample time to air dry before reassembling. This minimizes the risk of any moisture-related damage.
Step 8: Regular Maintenance
To keep your phone as germ-free as possible, make it a habit to wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe daily, especially during flu season or in the midst of a health crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I clean my smartphone?
Answer: Ideally, clean your smartphone at least once a week. However, if you are in public spaces frequently, consider cleaning it daily.
2. Can I use regular household cleaning sprays on my smartphone?
Answer: It’s best to avoid using regular cleaning sprays as they can be too harsh for the sensitive electronics in smartphones. Stick to a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water.
3. Is it safe to use a UV light phone sanitizer?
Answer: Yes, UV light sanitizers are a good option as they effectively kill bacteria and viruses without liquids. However, they can be an additional cost and should be used alongside regular physical cleaning for the best results.
With these steps, your smartphone can stay as clean as new, making it safer for you to use every day. Remember, a clean phone is part of good hygiene, just like washing your hands.
