This Everyday Item Is Filthier Than a Toilet Seat and You’re Probably Holding It Right Now
Imagine holding something that’s dirtier than a toilet seat. Shocking, right? Our smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives, but they also harbor germs and bacteria that can pose health risks. With our phones constantly exposed to various surfaces and our hands, it’s no wonder they accumulate more germs than many public restroom fixtures. In this post, we’ll dive into why your smartphone is a breeding ground for bacteria and offer essential tips and tricks on how to keep it pristine. You’ll learn how often you should clean your device, what materials work best for cleaning, and additional practices for maintaining a cleaner phone. So let’s get started!
Tip 1: Regular Cleaning is Essential
To minimize the bacteria on your phone, it’s crucial to clean it regularly.
- Turn off and unplug your phone.
- Use a microfiber cloth and a cleaning solution safe for electronics.
- Gently wipe down the front, back, and sides of your phone.
- For stubborn spots, dampen the cloth slightly with the cleaning solution.
Pro Tip: Avoid using rough materials that can scratch your device. Stick to microfiber cloths.
Tip 2: Use the Right Cleaning Solutions
Not all cleaning products are suitable for your phone. Using the right solutions can prevent damage.
- Look for alcohol-based cleaning wipes with at least 70% isopropyl alcohol.
- Spray the cleaning solution onto the cloth instead of directly on the phone.
- Wipe the screen and casing thoroughly.
Common Mistake: Using window cleaners or bleach can damage phone screens.
Tip 3: Keep Accessories Clean
Your phone case and screen protector can also accumulate germs. Taking care of them is just as important.
- Remove the case and clean it using the same method as your phone.
- For screen protectors, check if they can withstand alcohol solutions.
- Let them air dry before reattaching.
Hidden Trick: Some cases are machine washable; check your manufacturer’s guidelines.
Tip 4: Avoid Eating While Using Your Phone
Eating and using your phone can transfer food particles and bacteria to your device.
- Designate specific eating areas away from your phone.
- If you must use your phone, ensure your hands are clean before touching it.
Advanced Tool: Consider using a phone stand while eating to keep your device away from food.
Tip 5: Use a UV Sanitizer
A UV sanitizer can effectively kill bacteria and viruses on your phone without chemicals.
- Purchase a UV phone sanitizer.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operation.
- Place your phone inside the sanitizer and close the lid.
- Turn on and wait for the suggested duration.
Pro Tip: Sanitize your phone after returning home from public places.
Tip 6: Establish a Cleaning Routine
Consistency is key. Establish a routine for keeping your phone clean to stay on top of germs.
- Set a reminder to clean your phone weekly.
- Incorporate phone cleaning into your regular cleaning schedule.
Common Mistake: Forgetting to clean your device after returning from high-traffic places.
Tip 7: Be Mindful of Charging Cables
Your charging cables can also harbor germs. Clean them regularly too.
- Unplug the cable from your phone and any power source.
- Use a cloth dampened with a cleaning solution to wipe the cable.
- Let it dry before reconnecting.
Hidden Trick: Use cable organizers to prevent dirt transfer from surfaces.
Tip 8: Limit Phone Usage in Public Restrooms
Using your phone in restrooms can significantly increase the germ load.
- Avoid taking your phone to the restroom if possible.
- If you must, ensure you clean your phone afterward using one of the methods above.
Pro Tip: Use public restrooms as an opportunity to clean your device.
Tip 9: Share Responsibly
Sharing your phone can lead to transferring germs. Be cautious.
- Limit who you share your phone with.
- If someone else needs to use your phone, clean it afterward.
Advanced Tool: Use app settings to limit access to sensitive applications for shared use.
Tip 10: Invest in a Quality Phone Case
A quality case can protect your device and minimize exposure to germs.
- Choose a case designed with antimicrobial properties.
- Ensure it has easy-to-clean surfaces.
Common Mistake: Skipping the case to save money can lead to increased cleaning efforts.
Summary
- Regularly clean your phone using appropriate cleaning solutions.
- Keep phone cases and accessories clean to ensure germ protection.
- Establish a cleaning routine to stay on top of hygiene.
- Invest in a UV sanitizer for deeper cleaning when needed.
- Be mindful of usage in high-germ environments like public restrooms.
With these tips, you’ll better understand how to keep your phone cleaner and reduce your exposure to harmful germs. Remember, your device is a part of your everyday life, so treating it with care will benefit both your health and the longevity of your phone.
