Phones go everywhere with us, from the breakfast table to the bathroom, and each touch adds new layers of germs.
Studies have shown that phone surfaces can contain hundreds of bacterial species, some of which are capable of spreading illness.
Unlike our hands, which we wash several times a day, phones are rarely cleaned.
A greasy touchscreen might seem harmless, but it can easily transfer microbes back onto freshly washed hands or faces.
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What to avoid
When it comes to cleaning, more isn’t always better. Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturers warn against harsh household cleaners such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar.
These can corrode the phone’s metal edges or strip away the thin oleophobic coating that keeps fingerprints and oils from sticking to the screen.
Even alcohol wipes with more than 70 percent concentration can do more harm than good.
If a product is strong enough to disinfect your kitchen, it’s too strong for your phone.
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How to do it right
Start by unplugging your device and removing its case. Use a soft microfiber cloth slightly dampened with 70 percent isopropyl alcohol or a cleaning wipe made for electronics.
Avoid spraying any liquid directly on the phone, and never submerge it, even if it’s labeled "water-resistant".
To clean delicate areas like speaker grilles or charging ports, a soft antistatic brush works best.
Most experts recommend giving your phone a gentle wipe at least once a week, and more often if you use it in crowded places like public transport or gyms.
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It’s a simple habit that helps protect both your health and your favorite gadget.
Sources: The Conversation, and Videnskab.dk.
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