So it’s spring cleaning time and you’ve tackled the basement, closets, garage, etc. And, you’re feeling pretty good about yourself. But what about the device you carry with you every day? Mobile phones are little harbors for germs with 18 times more bacteria than a toilet handle. EWW!
If that grosses you out, make a plan to clean your phone today with these easy tips:
Step 1: Power down your phone. Yes, turn it completely off and give that baby a break. We know this gives some folks nomophobia — the fear of being out of mobile contact. It will only be for a few minutes though, breathe!
Step 2: Remove the case if you have one and the batteries if you can. Some phones don’t have removable batteries (like iPhones), but if you do, take them out just to be safe.
Step 3: Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe down the device. Try to avoid getting water in the speaker area. If you have isopropyl alcohol in the house for first aid, add a touch for disinfecting. It also dissolves dirt and oil and dries instantly. NOTE: Never use window cleaner! And don’t use a paper towel unless you want to scratch your screen.
Step 4: If you have a case, you can use a drop of soap and water to clean. Be careful not to rub off any bling, of course. Rinse and dry with a clean cloth.
Step 5: Put your phone back together and enjoy. Well, at least for a few minutes before it’s smudgy again.
We recommend carrying around a microfiber cloth to wipe down your phone on a regular basis.
One last tip, cleaning your phone can mean more than just the germy outside. “Clean” the inside by freeing up storage space. Try uploading photos and videos to sharing sites and delete them from your phone. Uninstall apps that you don’t really use (we know there are at least a few), and don’t forget about old texts with attachments. Those space hogs really add up.
Now take a selfie and smile into that clean phone screen! Happy spring!
