If there are two things that gather a whole lot of germs when you travel (or even when you don’t), it’s your cell phone and tablet. Sure, washing your hand a bajillion times a day must certainly help to decrease the germs. But let’s face it – every time you put your device down onto a surface, whether it’s a table or a desk, or even the arm of a chair, it’s introducing it to all of the germs that are on that surface. And then you pick it up and those germs are transferred from your electronics to your hands. And if you’re someone who has a tough time not touching your face, well, you know where I’m going with this.
Tests done by scientists suggest that some nasty microscopic critters can live on plastic and steel for two to three days, so cleaning your phone regularly is very important. With that, the Associated Press has posted ways to clean your electronics, which they adapted from info Apple, Google, AT&T, etc. have posted. Here’s what’s recommended:
Important! Your phone and tablet are, of course, electronic. And electronics and liquids don’t mix. So although you want to get your stuff clean with damp cloths, you don’t want to make them WET. So don’t dunk them in liquids and don’t spray cleaning stuff directly onto them – both of those will allow fluid into the actual electronics and turn your device into a hockey puck (and Apple stores are all closed right now, so if you have an iPhone or iPad, it’s not like you can get a replacement that easily). Instead, do this:
- Turn off your phone and, if you’re charging it, stop and unplug it.
- Slightly dampen a lint-free cloth or paper towel with soap and water or disinfectant (again, don’t spray the device with the disinfectant – just lightly spray the thing you’re going to wipe it with). You can also use Clorox wipes (or any wipes with 70% alcohol). Don’t use bleach. Don’t use anything abrasive.
- GENTLY wipe the entire surface of the electronics
- Avoid getting moisture into the openings of the device
Washing your hands often is super important right now. Keeping the devices that you hold and use the most is nearly as important.
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This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary
