Buzz
Mobile phones often accumulate a significant amount of germs on their surfaces, which can lead to illnesses for you or others. For a quick and efficient cleaning method, use alcohol-soaked wipes or alcohol-based tissues to sanitize your phone. You can also remove dirt and grease with a damp cloth and soap. If you're particularly concerned about germs or viruses, alcohol solutions are the most effective. Be aware that alcohol can damage your phone screen over time, so avoid frequent use even though phone disinfection is essential. A screen protector can help prevent this issue. UV sterilization devices are also effective but costly. Regularly disinfect your phone to stay safe and avoid germs!
Steps
Use soap and water for basic disinfection
Turn off your phone and unplug it. Press and hold the power button on the side of your phone until it shuts down. Wait for the phone to completely power off before cleaning to avoid damaging internal components. If it's plugged in, unplug it during cleaning to prevent electric shock.
- Do not disinfect your phone while it's on to avoid short circuits.
Remove the phone case. Since bacteria can hide inside the phone case, take it off during cleaning. If your phone case has multiple parts, separate them to clean each piece thoroughly. Keep the phone and case apart to avoid recontamination.
- Be careful when removing the phone case as it can easily break.
Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Fill the bowl with warm water. Add 1-2 drops of dish soap and stir until the solution is well-mixed and bubbly.
- Opt for antibacterial soap if available, as it is more effective at killing germs.
Alternative option: You can use hand soap if dish soap is not available.
Dip a soft microfiber cloth into the solution and wring it out. Quickly dip the microfiber cloth into the soapy water and lift it before it gets soaked. Squeeze the cloth tightly to remove excess water and prevent your phone from getting wet.
- Avoid using paper towels or scrub sponges to clean, as they can scratch the screen.
Wipe the entire phone surface with the cloth to remove germs. Start with the screen and clean the entire phone in circular motions. Be cautious around the microphone, charging port, and buttons, as water can get trapped and damage internal components. After cleaning the front, flip the phone and wipe the back.
- If your phone is water-resistant, a small amount of water near openings or buttons is fine, as the phone is less likely to get damaged.
Use a clean cloth to dry any damp areas on the phone. Place the phone on a dry microfiber cloth and gently dab the surface. Ensure all remaining moisture is removed to prevent damage to the device.
Clean rubber or leather phone cases with soapy water. Dip a microfiber cloth into the soapy solution and wring it out thoroughly. Wipe both the inside and outside of the case to remove dirt or trapped debris. Pay special attention to corners and small crevices where bacteria may hide.
- Avoid submerging the phone case in the solution to prevent material damage.
- For leather cases, use a conditioner designed for leather to maintain its softness.
Eliminate germs with alcohol
Turn off and unplug the phone. Ensure the phone is unplugged to avoid electric shock during cleaning. Press and hold the power button on the side of the phone until the screen displays a shutdown message. Wait for the phone to fully power off before cleaning.
- Cleaning the phone while it's on may cause a short circuit.
Remove the phone case and set it aside. Carefully detach the edges of the phone case to remove it. Separate the phone from the case and set it aside during cleaning. If your phone case has multiple parts, disassemble them for thorough cleaning.
- Keep the phone case away to avoid accidental recontamination during the cleaning process.
Mix equal parts alcohol and warm water in a bowl. Choose alcohol with a concentration of at least 60-70% to effectively eliminate most germs. Pour the alcohol and warm water into the bowl, then stir until the solution is well-blended.
- You can purchase alcohol at pharmacies.
Warning: Over time, alcohol can strip away the protective layer on your phone screen that prevents fingerprints and water damage, so limit its use when cleaning.
Dampen a microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution. Choose a lint-free cloth to avoid scratching the phone screen. Soak the microfiber cloth in the alcohol solution and wring it out thoroughly. Ensure the cloth is not dripping wet to prevent damage to the phone.
- Avoid using paper towels or scrub sponges as they can scratch the phone.
Wipe the phone surface from bottom to top with the cloth. Gently clean the front of the phone in circular motions, applying light pressure. Move carefully around ports, buttons, and speakers to prevent the solution from seeping inside and damaging components. Flip the phone and clean the back in the same manner.
- Wash your hands before cleaning the phone to avoid recontaminating it immediately.
Use disinfectant wipes for on-the-go phone cleaning. Opt for wipes specifically designed for electronics, as they are less likely to damage your device. Focus on areas with tight edges or small crevices where bacteria can accumulate. Avoid using wipes inside ports to prevent damage.
- You can purchase electronic cleaning wipes at electronics stores, which typically eliminate about 99% of bacteria and viruses on your phone.
- Carry these wipes with you when traveling to disinfect your phone on the go.
Jonathan Tavarez
Cleaning Expert & Founder, Pro Housekeepers
Cleaning Expert & Founder, Pro Housekeepers
Expert Tip: Alcohol-based wipes can disinfect phone screens and cases, but avoid using solutions like vodka, vinegar, or ammonia as they are not recognized by the WHO as effective disinfectants. Standard UV lights also won’t disinfect surfaces effectively.
Dry the phone with a separate dry microfiber cloth. Lay the cloth flat on a table and place the phone in the center. Gently pat the phone to remove any remaining moisture. Ensure the phone is completely dry to prevent damage.
- Drying is unnecessary if you’ve used disinfectant wipes.
Disinfect wooden or plastic phone cases with an alcohol solution. Dip a cloth into the solution and wring it out. Wipe both the inside and outside of the case, ensuring every part is sanitized. Pay attention to edges or small grooves where bacteria can accumulate.
- Avoid using alcohol on leather cases as it can dry out the material.
- For hard-to-reach crevices, try using a stiff-bristled toothbrush.
Use a UV sterilization light
Purchase UV sterilization lamps online or at electronics stores. Look for a lamp large enough to cover your entire phone; otherwise, this method won't be effective. Compare features and reviews for each option to find one that fits your budget.
Place your phone inside the sterilization lamp and close the lid. Open the device's lid and lay your phone face down on the base. Ensure the phone doesn't protrude from the edges, or you won't be able to close the lid. Slowly close the lid to activate the UV light and begin sterilizing your phone.
Tip: Many UV sterilization devices also come with a charging port, allowing you to charge your phone while it's being cleaned.
Leave your phone in the sterilization device for 5 to 10 minutes. Check for an indicator light on the device's exterior to confirm it's working. Keep the phone inside with the lid closed for effective sterilization. After 5 to 10 minutes, the indicator light will turn off, signaling it's time to remove your phone.
Wash your hands before removing your phone from the sterilization device. Use warm water and soap, scrubbing for 15 to 20 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and dry your hands before opening the UV sterilization device. Take out your phone and use it as usual.
Keep your phone free from germs and pathogens
Wash your hands regularly to prevent germs from transferring to your phone. Always use warm water and soap to eliminate viruses and bacteria. Scrub your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, ensuring you clean the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Rinse off the soap with warm water and dry your hands with a clean towel.
Warning: Avoid sneezing into your palms as this can spread germs and bacteria.
Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Choose a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to effectively kill bacteria and viruses. Apply a coin-sized amount to your palm and rub your hands together, making sure to cover the spaces between your fingers and under your nails. Continue rubbing until the sanitizer has fully dried.
Use headphones to avoid holding your phone to your ear. Opt for headphones with a built-in microphone so you can still take calls. Keep your phone in your pocket or on a table to minimize frequent handling. When you need to answer a call, plug in your headphones to avoid pressing the phone against your face.
Avoid taking your phone into the bathroom whenever possible. Leave your phone in another room when using the restroom. If you must bring it with you, keep it in your pocket or bag. Refrain from touching your phone until you've finished and washed your hands thoroughly.
Advice
- Disinfect your phone daily to minimize the risk of spreading germs.
Warning
- Avoid touching your face after using your phone to reduce the risk of infection or spreading bacteria and viruses.
- Limit the use of alcohol when cleaning your phone, as it can strip the protective coating on the screen, which helps prevent fingerprint marks.
- Do not use vinegar for disinfection. It is not an EPA-registered disinfectant, and its effectiveness against bacteria and viruses is limited (80% and 90%, respectively). It cannot eliminate all pathogens.
What You'll Need
Use water and soap for basic disinfection
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Hand soap or dish soap
- Bowl
Eliminate germs with alcohol
- Rubbing alcohol
- Bowl
- Electronics-safe cleaning wipes
- Soft microfiber cloth
Utilize UV sterilization lamps
- UV sterilization lamp
- Multi-purpose disinfectant solution
- Hand soap
