The average American will check their phone anywhere from 80 to 300 times a day. That amount spikes if you have children who like to grab your phones at their whim. Because of this, your phone is one of the dirtiest objects that you use every single day. Your phone tends to carry more germs than the toilet seat and door knobs! Luckily for you, there are ways to clean your phone with products you most likely have in the house. Be sure to clean your phones routinely to discourage germs from spreading. Note: Before cleaning your phones with the suggestions below, make sure to power down your device!

1. Cotton swabs and toothpicks:

Cotton swabs are great for cleaning small or hard to reach areas. Use a cotton swab for hard to reach spots on your phone, such as the corners and crevices between the screen and the borders. Use them on your phone cases and ports. Use toothpicks for even smaller crevices. Be sure not to go deep into the ports with the cotton swabs or toothpicks to keep from messing up the systems within.

2. Microfiber cloth:

There’s a reason we use these cloths for our eye glasses! They are safe and gentle on the surface. If you have one handy from your glasses, use this to wipe down your phone.

3. Distilled water and vinegar:

Use a 1 to 1 ratio of distilled water and vinegar and mix it into a cup. Use a microfiber cloth and dip it into the liquid. Use the damp cloth on your screen to get rid of marks, then use the dry portion to dry up your screen!

4. Scotch tape:

This is a fun way to see how dirty your phone can be. Use a long stretch of tape, make sure it is longer than the phone so you don’t lose sight of the tape. Press down on the screen with the tape, then lift up the tape. Continue this until you notice the dirt and grime is gone.

5. Wash your phone case:

Throw your plastic phone case (without your phone attached of course!) into a dishwasher. If you have diamonds or jewels or anything that can be damaged by the dishwasher, wash the case by hand instead

 

Cleaning your phone regularly is something we all should do more frequently. Considering how dirty phones can be, the spreading of germs increases exponentially! Not only does cleaning your phone keep germs at bay, it also helps you to be mindful of the expensive gadget on the regular. If you are more concerned about getting rid of bacteria from your phone, consider purchasing a UV sanitizer. There are UV sanitizers specifically made for phones. Don’t forget to wipe down your earbuds as well. You can use the same items listed above to do this. Make cleaning your phone a weekly habit!