We're assuming you've mastered handwashing and are cheerfully singing along to hits by Beata Kozidrak or Krzysztof Krawczyk with the rest of Poland. But besides clean hands, it's also worth disinfecting your phone. After all, quarantine time encourages screen scrolling, and consequently, the transfer of microorganisms to clean hands. We're sharing simple ways to protect your smartphone from viruses – this time on its surface.
With frequent use, sterilization is recommended at least several times a day.
HOW OFTEN TO CLEAN YOUR PHONE?
In the current situation, there's only one answer – as often as possible. Your dried hands, due to frequent washing, have already been covered with a fine network of dried epidermis, like African riverbeds waiting for rain. Similarly, it's worth reaching for phone disinfection just as often. The Coronavirus threatening us survives on surfaces for up to 9 days, and that's not the only virus lurking for us, especially since we often use our phones during or immediately after meals, and even (don't pretend to be surprised) in the toilet. With frequent use, sterilization is recommended at least several times a day. If you only use your phone as a stationary clock, once a day will suffice.
ALCOHOL AND MICROFIBER
Wiping against your pants might help get rid of smudges, but it won't increase your chances of avoiding infection. According to widely communicated guidelines, 70% isopropyl alcohol should be used for disinfection. Higher concentrations (e.g., pure alcohol) will cause the formation of resistant virus spores that won't be destroyed. On the other hand, 40% has too low antiseptic properties to thoroughly disinfect the surface. It's still better than nothing! To apply the alcohol, use special microfiber cloths like those used for cleaning glasses. As a last resort, you can use cotton cosmetic pads. Apply the solution to the cloth and gently wipe the entire phone with it. It's important that the device is dry before you start – the presence of liquids on the screen reduces cleaning effectiveness.
DISINFECTING WIPES
This is a cheap, quick, and easily accessible solution proposed by Apple, among others. Disinfecting wipes, like alcohol and microfiber, should be used on a dry device. Thoroughly wipe the screen and sides of your smartphone. Don't forget the "back" of your phone either! It's recommended to use wipes soaked in a disinfectant, but even store-bought "glass cleaning" cloths, while not guaranteeing complete safety, will certainly minimize the risk.
Is your phone waterproof? Just wash it under water
Fortune favors the bold! A quick bath while washing your hands might not kill all viruses, but it will clean the screen. This solution can be used preventatively, but it's important to remember that soap can damage your smartphone. Loss of warranty in this case is not only possible but an unavoidable necessity. We warned you in advance!
...avoid touching your face not only with your hands but also with your phone.
SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT
The easiest way to disinfect is, of course, to use appropriate devices like PhoneSoap or Dezzy. UV light with strong antiseptic properties will rid your smartphone's surface of dangerous elements invisible to your eye. Of course, this is not a solution available to everyone, and frankly... almost no one. So we recommend other methods.
AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE
During periods of increased epidemiological risk, such as the current one, it is advisable to avoid direct contact with infection vectors. While little will stop us from using our smartphones, taking extra precautions during conversations is particularly recommended. Above all, avoid touching your face not only with your hands but also with your phone. Even a cleaned screen can harbor microorganisms. If you want to talk, use headphones or speakerphone mode – your cat will forgive you for interrupting its nap if you explain that it's a matter of public health.
