Tips to effectively disinfect your cell phone

What do you touch more than your cell phone? During this challenging time, have you checked your screen time? Chances are you’re using your phone more than ever for entertainment, video chats with friends and loved ones, working remotely and even unlocking the front door with smart locks like the Schlage Encode.
 

It’s a key (mind the pun) device that most of us use constantly… and it’s filthy. In fact, microbiologists at the University of Arizona found that cell phones are likely to carry ten times more bacteria than the average toilet seat. Ew! Needless to say, disinfecting your phone has never been more important.

We’ve put together some easy tips to help you effectively clean your phone:

1.   Make sure your phone is powered off and is unplugged.
 

2.   Remove case.
 

3.   Clean both the case and phone separately.
 

4.   Apple suggests that you can use a disinfectant wipe to sanitize your iPhone if the wipe uses 70% isopropyl alcohol. This is the case with most phones; however, you should check with your cellphone manufacturer to be safe. (If you haven’t been able to acquire disinfectant wipes, here’s a quick link to a Google search to choose your preferred DIY recipe that you can make at home).

5.   Avoid getting moisture in any openings.

6.   Use a soft cloth to wipe clean, even a paper towel can be too abrasive.

7.   Thoroughly wash your hands afterwards with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

Protect yourself by frequently cleaning common surfaces and objects like your cell phone, door hardware, light switches and countertops.