Fact or Fiction: Do Cell Phones Carry a lot of Germs?

Get tips on how to keep your cell phone clean and germ free

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Cell phones can carry 10 times more bacteria than most toilet seats, mostly because many users forget to clean their screen. According to Charles Gerba, a microbiologist at the University of Arizona, it’s not the amount of germs on a phone that’s the problem; it’s the sharing of phones between people. Without sharing, each phone carries just one set of germs and most likely won’t get its owner sick. It’s when people share phones, however, that can be a cause for concern.

To keep your devices clean, it’s important to wipe them down with an antibacterial wipe. Antibacterial sprays might damage the device, but a gentle wipe should be able to clean the device sufficiently. Here are some tips on how to clean your device.

First off, it is recommended that you turn off your device before performing any cleaning and to check the device warranty byreferring to your  product manual to see what the manufacturer recommends for cleaning your specific device.   

Disposable screen protectors 

These are your phone’s first line of defense against germs. A sturdy screen protector not only prevents scratches, but can also deflect dirt, dust, and other things that can cling to your phone. Since your screen is the part of the phone that comes in contact with your face the most, remember to clean and change your screen protector often.

Microfiber cloths 

These cloths are a common staple among smartphone cleaning tools. Use the microfiber fabric on your phone screen to gently wipe away dirt, grime and fingerprints, and remember to keep it nearby wherever you go.

Remember to add “clean my smartphone” to the top of your chores list this season – and keep these tips in mind year-round!

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