We constantly hold our mobile phones in our hands and hold them to our faces, so regular cleaning is not only a smart habit, but also essential for our health.
Although daily disinfection sounds like a good idea, it should be noted that not all cleaning methods are equally safe.
Harsh chemicals and abrasive materials can damage the protective layers on the screen, which can lead to permanent damage. That's why it's crucial to use proper cleaning techniques that won't damage your device.
Fortunately, there are effective and safe ways to disinfect without the risk of damage.
These are the best methods and tools needed to remove bacteria and dirt, whether you have an iPhone, Samsung, or another model, regardless of its water resistance.
What are the best products for daily cleaning?
If you've been touching surfaces that many other people use, such as doorknobs, public transportation seats, shopping carts, or gas stations, you might think that a strong disinfectant is the right solution for cleaning your cell phone.
However, you should avoid cleaning your device with alcohol or products containing it, as they can damage the screen's protective layers that protect it from oil and water, reports N1.
Some people recommend mixing rubbing alcohol and water, but using the wrong ratio can damage your device. The safest option is to use 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipes. For daily cleaning, consider using UV light devices that kill bacteria and germs.
Manufacturers are also providing maintenance advice. Apple now allows the use of Clorox wipes and similar disinfectants, which were not recommended before the pandemic because they were considered too abrasive for the screen.
Others advise spraying 70 percent isopropyl alcohol on a soft, lint-free cloth and gently wiping the device.
Samsung also recommends using a 70 percent alcohol solution applied to a microfiber cloth.
Whatever you decide to do, always turn off your phone before cleaning.
How to remove fingerprints, sand and makeup from your phone?
Smartphones sometimes need special treatment. A daily wipe may not be enough to remove grains of sand from a day at the beach or stubborn makeup stains, writes Cnet.
Oily smudges on the screen are inevitable because the skin produces natural oils. The surest way to keep it free of fingerprints is to use a microfiber cloth.
For a deeper clean, lightly dampen it with distilled water (never apply water directly to the screen) and wipe the surface. This method also applies to the back and edges of the phone, reports Tportal.
Alternatively, you can use a microfiber sticker that attaches to the back of the device for a quick screen clean.
How to remove sand and fine dust particles?
Grains of sand and hair can easily get into your phone's ports and openings. The best way to remove these debris is to use duct tape. Stick the tape along the cracks and speakers, then gently press it into the ports and pull it out - it will pull out the dirt.
For even smaller speaker openings, for hard-to-reach parts, you can gently use a toothpick.
If you want to remove makeup, such as foundation and moisturizer, avoid makeup removers. While they are safe for your skin, they can contain chemicals that can damage your screen. Instead, use an alcohol-free screen cleaner.
Alternatively, you can use a slightly damp microfiber cloth and wash it afterwards. Make sure it is only slightly damp to prevent water from getting into the device if it is not waterproof.
What if the phone is waterproof?
If your phone has a water resistance rating of IP67 or higher, the best way to clean it is to use a damp cloth instead of rinsing it under water – even if the manufacturer claims that the device can withstand submersion for a certain period of time.
After cleaning, dry it with a soft cloth, paying special attention to the ports and speakers to dry them. While your phone can survive contact with water, submersion can cause water to collect in the ports, which can affect charging. Remember, water resistance is intended to protect against accidental splashes, not immersion.
What should you avoid when cleaning your phone?
It has already been mentioned that makeup removers and alcohol should be avoided, but this is not a complete list of harmful products.
Hand sanitizers often contain fragrances and ethyl alcohol, which can damage them.
Glass or kitchen cleaners are harsh chemicals that can remove the protective coating from your screen and make it more susceptible to scratches. Paper towels can fall apart and leave a mess.
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