Our phones are one of the most frequently touched objects that we carry with us all day long. While washing your hands regularly can keep you safe from germs, it’s essential to sanitize your phone as well. Germs can easily spread from your phone to your hands, and vice versa. You might not realize, but your phone carries germs and bacteria from all the surfaces it touches. In this article, we have outlined some simple steps to safely sanitize your phone and prevent the spread of diseases.
Why is it Important to Sanitize Your Phone?
Mobile phones have become an integral part of our daily lives. We use them to communicate with others, access information, and complete various tasks. However, what most people don’t realize is that their phones can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Increased use of mobile phones and constant contact with surfaces and people increase the risk of germ buildup, leading to potential health hazards.
The Dangers of Germs on Your Phone
Most people assume that germs are only found on surfaces such as door handles and countertops. However, studies have shown that mobile phones can have more germs and bacteria than a public restroom. This is because phones are rarely sanitized and are constantly exposed to different environments and people.
According to a study conducted by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, one in six mobile phones in Britain is contaminated with fecal matter. This highlights the urgent need to sanitize your phone regularly.
How Germs can Affect Your Health
The accumulation of germs on your phone can lead to various health hazards. Germs such as E. Coli and Staphylococcus aureus can cause skin infections, while Salmonella and norovirus can cause stomach infections. In some cases, these infections can be severe and life-threatening.
In addition to physical health, germs on your phone can also affect your mental health. A study conducted by the University of Arizona found that phones have ten times more bacteria than most toilet seats. This can cause anxiety and stress in individuals who are germophobic or have OCD.
Preventing Germs on Your Phone
- Sanitize your phone regularly using a disinfectant wipe or solution. Be sure to remove any phone cases and use gentle pressure to avoid damaging the phone’s screen.
- Avoid taking your phone to the bathroom as fecal matter can easily contaminate it.
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your phone if your hands are dirty or contaminated.
- Avoid sharing your phone with others.
What are the Recommended Cleaning Agents for Sanitizing Your Phone?
Your mobile phone is an essential item nowadays that goes with you wherever you go, from your pocket to your hand, to different surfaces, and back again. As such, it’s vital to keep it clean and sanitized to prevent the spread of harmful germs. To safely sanitize your phone, experts recommend using either ordinary soap and water, disinfectant wipes, or solutions with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Ordinary Soap and Water
The easiest and most common cleaning solution is using ordinary soap and water. Mix a drop of liquid soap with warm water and, using a clean microfiber cloth, clean your phone. Make sure to avoid getting any moisture in your phone ports, and don’t forget to remove your phone case and clean that too. Dry your phone thoroughly with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
Disinfectant Wipes
If you prefer a more convenient solution, you can use disinfectant wipes that are made especially for phones. These wipes are usually alcohol-based or contain other antiseptic ingredients. To use them, take a wipe and gently rub it all over your phone and phone case. Make sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies. Let it air-dry for a minute before using it again.
- Be careful not to use wipes that contain bleach or abrasive agents that can damage your phone’s screen or finish.
Solutions with 70% Isopropyl Alcohol
Another effective way to sanitize your phone is by using a solution with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Take a microfiber cloth and gently dampen it with the solution. Wipe down your phone, getting into all the crevices, and don’t forget to remove your phone case and clean it too. Like with the other methods, avoid getting any moisture in your phone ports, and make sure it’s completely dry before use.
Remember that regular phone cleaning and sanitizing can help reduce the risk of getting sick and the spread of germs.
How Do You Safely Sanitize Your Phone?
When it comes to sanitizing our phones, we often forget the importance of doing so. Our phones are one of the most frequently touched items we own, and that means they are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and germs. So, how can you safely sanitize your phone without damaging it? Here are some steps you should follow:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin sanitizing your phone, you should gather all the necessary supplies. You will need a microfiber cloth, rubbing alcohol, and a small spray bottle. You can replace rubbing alcohol with any other alcohol-based product that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Step 2: Turn Off Your Phone and Remove the Accessories
Before you start cleaning your phone, you should first turn it off and remove all the accessories such as the phone case and screen protector. Removing these accessories will allow you to clean the phone thoroughly, and you won’t miss any hidden crevices.
Step 3: Be Careful with the Cleaning Agent
While cleaning your phone, you should be careful with the cleaning agent you use. If you use too much cleaning solution, it can damage your phone’s surface or screen. To avoid this, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto the microfiber cloth or into a small spray bottle. You can then wipe the phone with the cloth or spray the cleaning solution onto the cloth first. This will ensure that you don’t damage your phone’s protective coating.
Step 4: Wipe Your Phone Down
Once you have the cleaning solution ready, you can start sanitizing your phone. You should wipe down your phone thoroughly with the microfiber cloth. Pay extra attention to the areas where you frequently touch such as the buttons and the ports.
Step 5: Let Your Phone Dry
After wiping down your phone, you should give it time to dry before you start using it again. You can place it on a clean surface or a dry paper towel to let it air dry. Do not use any extra heat sources like a hairdryer as this can damage your phone.
By following these simple steps, you can safely sanitize your phone and get rid of all the germs and bacteria. It’s also a good idea to sanitize your phone regularly, especially if you’ve been outside or in contact with others who may carry germs. Give your phone a good clean, and you’ll have a germ-free device in no time!
What Precautions Should You Take When Sanitizing Your Phone?
With the spread of viruses like COVID-19, it’s important to keep your phone clean and sanitized to prevent the spread of germs. However, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions when cleaning your phone to prevent damage to the device. Here are a few things to keep in mind when sanitizing your phone:
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners
When sanitizing your phone, never use abrasive cleaners or household cleaning products such as bleach, window cleaner, or rubbing alcohol. These cleaners could damage the phone’s protective coating and touchscreen, causing scratches or discoloration. Instead, use a microfiber cloth or screen-cleaning wipes specifically designed for electronic devices.
Avoid Using Excessive Moisture
When cleaning your phone, avoid using excessive moisture or submerging your phone in water as this could damage the device. Instead, consider using a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the phone’s surface. Avoid getting water in ports, speaker grills, or other openings on the phone.
Remove Your Phone Case
It’s important to remove your phone case before sanitizing your phone. Dust, lint or debris can easily get trapped inside and potentially contribute to bacterial growth. Gently clean the case with warm soapy water and let it air dry before putting it back on your phone.
Wash Your Hands
Always remember to wash your hands before and after sanitizing your phone. Frequent hand washing helps in reducing the chances of you contracting infections and viruses from your phone or transferring bacteria to other surfaces or people.
Following these precautions when sanitizing your phone can help prevent the spread of germs, bacteria and help protect your device in the process.
How Often Should You Sanitize Your Phone?
Sanitizing your phone has become an important aspect of personal hygiene since phones are one of the most touched items. Therefore, ideally, you should sanitize your phone at least once every day. However, if you use your phone frequently, you might have to sanitize it more often. According to research, the average person touches their phone 2,617 times a day, and based on this data, it is recommended to sanitize your phone at least twice daily.
Factors to Consider
The number of times you sanitize your phone depends on multiple factors, including:
- The frequency of phone usage. If you use your phone frequently, you may need to sanitize it more often.
- Your work environment. If you work in a hospital or a laboratory, you should sanitize your phone more often.
- Your surroundings. If you’re in a crowded place with no access to water and soap, sanitizing your phone becomes crucial.
- Your health. If you are sick or have a weak immune system, you should sanitize your phone frequently to avoid further contamination.
When to Sanitize Your Phone
There are specific instances when you should sanitize your phone immediately, including:
- When you cough or sneeze: The droplets from coughing or sneezing can land on your phone and spread germs. Thus, you need to sanitize it immediately.
- After using the washroom: Your phone can become contaminated with bacteria and viruses you may have picked up in the washroom.
- When you get home: Sanitizing your phone when you get home from work/school minimizes the risk of contamination in your living space.
- After using public transport: Public transport is home to numerous contaminants; hence it’s essential to sanitize your phone after using such services.
- When your phone falls: Dropping your phone in a public place and picking it up immediately can be a considerable threat.
Tips for Sanitizing Your Phone
It is recommended to turn off your phone before sanitizing it and wipe it down gently to avoid damaging it.
Here are a few tips for safely sanitizing your phone:
- Use an alcohol-based solution with at least 60% alcohol for good results.
- Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean your phone gently.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning supplies with bleach, ammonia, or hydrogen peroxide since they can damage your phone.
- Ensure that your phone is fully dry before turning it back on or using it. Moisture can cause malfunctions in your device.
What Are Some Tips for Keeping Your Phone Clean?
Your phone is a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. With all the places it goes and all the surfaces it touches, it’s important to keep it clean, especially in times of viruses and pandemics. Here are some tips to keep your phone clean and germ-free:
1. Use a disinfectant spray or wipe
The easiest and fastest way to sanitize your phone is by using a disinfectant spray or wipe. Look for a solution that’s safe for electronics and won’t damage your phone. Apple, for example, recommends using a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes. Make sure to follow the instructions and let the wipe or spray fully dry before using your phone again.
2. Use UV-C light sanitizer
UV-C light sanitizers can be a great alternative to disinfectant wipes or sprays. These devices use UV-C light to kill germs and bacteria on your phone. Look for a UV-C light sanitizer that fits your phone’s size and that has been tested against common pathogens. It’s important to note that UV-C light can be harmful to your skin and eyes, so follow the device’s instructions carefully.
Avoid sharing your phone with others, especially during pandemics or if you’re feeling sick. Germs can easily spread through your phone’s surface and you wouldn’t want to pass them on to others.
4. Wash your hands regularly
Washing your hands regularly is one of the most effective ways of preventing the spread of germs and bacteria. Make sure to wash your hands before and after using your phone. This will prevent germs from transferring from your hands to your phone and vice versa.
5. Store your phone in a clean and dry place
When you’re not using your phone, make sure to store it in a clean and dry place. Avoid placing it on dirty or wet surfaces. This will prevent germs from attaching to your phone and prevent damage to your device.
6. Avoid touching your face after using your phone
After using your phone, avoid touching your face, especially your nose, mouth, and eyes. These areas are vulnerable to germs and bacteria, and touching them after using your phone can lead to infection. Instead, wash your hands first and avoid touching your face altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| How often should I sanitize my phone? | It is recommended to sanitize your phone once a day, especially after you have been out in public places. |
| Can I use alcohol to sanitize my phone? | Yes, you can use 70% isopropyl alcohol to sanitize your phone. It is effective in killing germs and viruses. |
| How long should I keep my phone wet with sanitizer? | You only need to keep your phone wet with sanitizer for 30 seconds before wiping it off with a clean cloth. |
| Can I use disinfectant wipes to sanitize my phone? | Yes, you can use disinfectant wipes to sanitize your phone. However, make sure to check the ingredients and avoid using any wipes with bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage your phone. |
| Can I share my phone with other people after sanitizing it? | It is still recommended to avoid sharing your phone with other people, even after sanitizing it. The best way to prevent the spread of germs and viruses is to avoid sharing personal items. |
Stay Safe and Sanitized
Thank you for taking the time to read this article on how to safely sanitize your phone. In these uncertain times, it’s important to take all necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Remember to wash your hands regularly and sanitize your phone and other personal items to avoid the spread of germs and viruses. Visit us again later for more tips and tricks on staying safe and healthy.
