How to Thoroughly Sanitize Your Smartphone (It’s Likely Full of Germs)

Did you know that your smartphone is a hotspot for bacteria? Think about it: your phone goes with you everywhere—grocery stores, work, parks... even the bathroom. This gives germs plenty of chances to hitch a ride. In fact, a study by the University of Arizona revealed that the average smartphone has more germs than a toilet seat—10 times more, to be precise.

Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your smartphone, plus some advice for keeping it germ-free.

Things to Know Before Cleaning Your Phone

Before you start the deep cleaning process for your smartphone, keep these important reminders in mind:

• Refer to the manufacturer’s guide or manual for specific cleaning instructions for your device.
• Always unplug your phone and power it off before starting the cleaning process.
• Be sure to keep any moisture or liquids away from your phone's charging port and other openings.
• Avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners or bleach-based solutions. Do not use aerosol sprays, and never spray the cleaner directly onto the device.
• Use disinfectant wipes that do not contain bleach. Most wipes are safe for your phone, but those with alcohol or vinegar can damage the screen’s protective coating.

"It’s also important to use a microfiber cloth, which is gentle on surfaces, rather than paper towels," suggests Rob Duve, a Best Buy Geek Squad agent. "If you’re using a spray cleaner, spray it onto the cloth first, not directly on the screen, and then wipe your phone clean."

A Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Smartphone

Follow these easy-to-follow instructions to give your device and its case a complete clean.

Clean the Screen and Exterior of Your Phone

Before starting, make sure your phone is powered off and unplugged. Use a fast-drying disinfectant wipe without bleach to gently clean the phone's screen and outer surface. Alternatively, spray 70% isopropyl alcohol onto a microfiber cloth and wipe the phone clean.

Clean the Phone Case

If your phone has a case, remove it and wash it gently with mild dish soap and warm water. Pay special attention to cleaning the crevices and edges, as they often trap dust and dirt. Allow the case to air-dry fully before reattaching it to your phone. Ensure no moisture enters the phone's ports or openings.

Frequency of Cleaning Your Smartphone

Experts suggest cleaning your phone daily (at a minimum), according to the FCC. Regular cleaning helps avoid the buildup of dirt and germs, keeping your device cleaner. If your phone has been exposed to a dirty environment or feels grimy, it's wise to clean it more frequently or immediately.

Tips to Maintain Your Phone's Cleanliness

Along with periodically wiping down and thoroughly cleaning your smartphone, the following tips can help keep it cleaner for longer between cleanings.

Begin with Proper Hand Hygiene

After being in public spaces, try to avoid using your phone until you have had the opportunity to sanitize or wash your hands. 'One of the first and best lines of defense is to practice good hand hygiene. Always wash your hands with soap and water because anything that is on your hands will be transferred to your cellphone,' says Duve. 'Be cautious when using other people's devices, too. If you must use someone else's phone, try not to hold it up to your face.'

Think About Where You Use Your Phone

Be mindful of the environments where you use your phone. Many people bring their smartphones into the bathroom, exposing them to unnecessary germs. While it might be tempting to take your phone everywhere, it's wise to be selective about the places you bring it to reduce exposure to bacteria.

Use Hands-Free Options

Avoid placing the phone's screen directly on your face by utilizing earbuds or other hands-free devices for calls. This prevents germs from transferring between your phone and your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will isopropyl alcohol damage my phone?

  Using 70% isopropyl alcohol (or wipes containing this concentration) is safe for your phone. However, avoid rubbing alcohol, as it can damage your phone's protective coating.

• Can I use Windex wipes on my phone?

  Stick to alcohol-based products. Do not apply Windex, Clorox, or Lysol wipes to your phone as they may contain abrasive ingredients that can harm it.

• Is hand sanitizer safe for cleaning phones?

  While it's important to sanitize your hands before handling your phone, avoid applying hand sanitizer directly to your phone's screen or surface.