We are used to cleaning the things we frequently touch—tables, glasses, desks, laptops. But what about our phones? Can you think of a time when you cleaned your phone? Took off the case, pulled out your phone, and really cleaned it? Probably not. And that’s a problem. Our smartphones are said to carry harmful germs and bacteria such as E. coli. They are also said to host germs seven times more than a toilet seat. Grossed out yet? The following method will show you how to properly disinfect your smartphone without damaging it.

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Things To Keep in Mind

Before you actually start cleaning it, keep in mind that there are a couple of things you should be cognizant of while cleaning your phone.

• While using disinfecting wipes such as Clorox and Lysol can be tempting, you should fight against every urge to not use them. Bleach and alcohol are great to wipe the back of your phone with (unless it’s glass), but they should never touch the screen. The reason being that they erode away the protective coating that your phone already has.
• Do not run your phone under running water—especially if it’s too hot. Yes, some phones are waterproof and that’s fine, but it’s a safety tip that will keep you out of trouble.

Things You’ll Need

Believe it or not, cleaning your phone is very easy! There are usually no icky spots or major crevices, so you’re safe. The things that you will need are easily found in your home:

• A clean lint-free, non-abrasive cloth or paper towel
• Some lukewarm water (you can dilute this with a few drops of disinfectant)
• A disinfectant spray (preferably Lysol)
• Q-tips

Disinfecting Your Phone

Always, before you start cleaning your phone, plug it out from its charger and keep it away from any electric surfaces or areas, just to be safe. Take off its case too. Then, follow these steps:

• After you have taken off the case, run it under lukewarm water, rubbing it gently. This method will only work for hard, plain covers. If you have a fancy case or one made of cloth and leather, follow the cleaning instructions of the retailer/ manufacturer that you bought it from.
• Using the Q-tips (you can dampen them if need be), carefully go around the inner edges of your case. Again, don’t do this step if this doesn’t apply to the type of case you have.
• Using the same Q-tips, go around the charging ports on your phone, the speaker grills, as well as the camera and side buttons. It’s important to do this step gently to avoid getting the delicate fibers from the tips from lodging into little gaps.
• Take the lint-free cloth and very scarcely spray it with some disinfectant or the diluted water. Rub it gently over the back of your smartphone, careful not to touch the screen. Additionally, keep the cloth away from any exposed wires or ports.
• Remove any streaks leftover with the disinfectant cloth by going over it with a second, clean and dry cloth or paper towel.
• Repeat steps 2-5 for your phone case unless you’re following your retailer’s instructions.

It is truly important to keep your case and smartphone clean at all times. Consider investing in screen wipes or dust plugs to maintain this habit. Don’t touch your phone if your hands are dirty and even a quick use of hand sanitizer on your hands can prevent you from getting streaks or fingerprints. Experts recommend disinfecting your phone at least twice a week for the best results.