Using the wrong product can damage the screen and protective coating. This is the safest way to clean your phone.
       Your phone collects bacteria and germs throughout the day. Here’s how to safely clean and keep your phone hygienic.
       According to a December 2024 survey, Americans spend more than 5 hours a day on their phones. With so much use, it’s no surprise that phones are a breeding ground for germs — in fact, they’re often dirtier than toilet seats. Since you’re constantly holding your phone and holding it to your face, cleaning it regularly is not only smart, it’s essential for your health.
       The FCC recommends disinfecting your phone daily, but not all cleaning methods are safe. Harsh chemicals and abrasives can damage the protective coating and possibly damage the screen. It’s important to use the right cleaning methods to keep your phone clean and in good condition.
       Luckily, there are safe and effective ways to disinfect your phone without causing any harm. We’ll walk you through the best methods and products to help keep your device germ-free, whether you’re using an iPhone or a Samsung, and regardless of its waterproof rating.
       After touching frequently used surfaces such as door handles, public transport seats, shopping carts and petrol stations, you may need to use a strong cleaner to clean your phone. However, you should avoid using products containing rubbing alcohol or pure alcohol as they can damage the protective coating that prevents oil and water damage to the screen.
       Some suggest making your own mixture of alcohol and water, but the wrong concentration can damage your phone. The safest option is to use disinfectant wipes that contain 70% isopropyl alcohol. For daily cleaning, consider using a UV cleaner like PhoneSoap, which kills 99.99% of germs. We can also consult with phone manufacturers and cell phone companies for recommendations.
       Apple now endorses the use of Clorox wipes and similar disinfectants, which were not recommended before the pandemic because they were considered too abrasive for screen coating. AT&T recommends spraying 70% isopropyl alcohol on a soft, lint-free cloth and wiping down the device. Samsung also recommends using 70% alcohol and a microfiber cloth. Always make sure your phone is turned off before cleaning.
       Sometimes cleaning your phone requires more specialized treatment. The recommended daily cleaning may not be enough to remove pesky sand stains or stubborn foundation stains from a beach vacation.
       Fingerprints are inevitable due to the oils produced by your skin. Every time you pick up your phone, fingerprints are left on the screen. The safest way to protect your screen from fingerprints is to use a microfiber cloth. For a more thorough cleaning, dampen the cloth with distilled water (never apply water directly to the screen) and wipe the surface. This also applies to the back and sides of the phone.
       Alternatively, try using a microfiber screen cleaning sticker that you can stick to the back of your phone to make wiping easier.
       Sand and lint can easily get stuck in the ports and crevices of your phone. To remove them, we recommend using clear tape. Press the tape along the fold and around the speaker, then roll it up and gently insert it into the port. The tape will pull out all the debris. Then you can simply throw the tape away, and it will be easy to clean.
       For small speaker holes, gently use a toothpick or small crevice tool to suck out debris. These tools are also useful for cleaning other small appliances or hard-to-reach areas in your car.
       When you apply makeup or use skin care products like foundation and moisturizer, it leaves marks on your phone screen. Makeup removers, while safe for your face, may contain harmful chemicals and are therefore not safe for screens. Instead, try a screen-safe makeup remover like Whoosh, which is alcohol-free and gentle on all screens.
       Or, wipe your phone with a damp microfiber cloth, then rinse the cloth. Make sure the cloth is only slightly damp to avoid getting your phone wet.
       Waterproof phones (IP67 and above) are best wiped with a damp cloth rather than submerged or held underwater, even if the phone states that it can withstand submersion in water for a certain amount of time.
       Afterwards, wipe the phone with a soft cloth, making sure all ports and speakers are dry. Even though the phone is waterproof, submerging it in water may cause water to enter the ports, which will delay charging. Remember that waterproofing is for emergencies, not for swimming or regular cleaning.
       Fingerprints on your phone are inevitable because your skin produces oils that stick to your phone screen.
       We’ve already covered why you should avoid makeup removers and alcohol, but that’s not a complete list of harmful cleaning products. Here are a few more items and products you should never use to clean your phone: