Your phone is dirtier than a toilet seat—here’s how to clean it safely

If you’re reading this on your phone, you might want to put it down for a moment—preferably not on the kitchen bench, the café table, or (heaven forbid) the bathroom sink. 

Here’s a fact that’s hard to unsee: your mobile phone is likely crawling with more germs than a public toilet seat. Yes, you read that right. The device you cradle in your hands, press to your face, and tap with your fingers all day is a veritable petri dish of bacteria and viruses. 

It’s not just a scare tactic. Multiple studies have confirmed that our beloved smartphones are among our dirtiest objects. 

Think about it: your phone follows you everywhere—the office, the gym, the shops, and even the loo. Every swipe, tap, and set-down on a public surface adds another layer of invisible grime. 

And unless you’re cleaning your phone regularly (be honest—when was the last time you did?), you’re giving those germs a five-star hotel to thrive in.

But don’t panic! Keeping your phone clean and germ-free is easier than you might think. You can banish those nasties without damaging your device with simple tools and a little know-how. 

The Federal Communications Commission recommends disinfecting your phone daily. That might sound excessive, but considering how often we touch our faces and handle food after using our phones, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. 

Before you reach for the nearest cleaning spray or a bottle of methylated spirits, stop! Not all cleaning products are phone-friendly. Some can do more harm than good, stripping away protective coatings or damaging the delicate electronics inside.

Here’s what to use:

• Disinfectant wipes with 70 per cent isopropyl alcohol: These are safe for most modern smartphones, including iPhones and Samsungs. They kill germs without harming your screen’s protective layer.
• Microfiber cloths: Perfect for wiping away fingerprints and smudges without scratching.
• UV light sanitisers: These gadgets use ultraviolet light to zap 99.99 per cent of germs—no chemicals required.
• Screen-safe cleaning sprays: Brands like Whoosh are alcohol-free and gentle on all screens.

On the other hand, you should avoid the following:

• Rubbing alcohol or straight alcohol: Too harsh and can strip your screen’s coating.
• Hand sanitiser: The fragrances and ethyl alcohol can damage your phone.
• Window or kitchen cleaners: These can be abrasive and leave your phone vulnerable to scratches.
• Paper towels: They can shred and scratch your screen.
• Dish or hand soap: Most require water, which you should keep away from your phone.
• Vinegar: Like alcohol, it can strip protective coatings.
• Compressed air: Can force debris deeper into your phone and damage microphones.

How to clean your phone

1. Power down: Always turn off your phone before cleaning.
2. Remove the case: Clean it separately with soap and water (if it’s waterproof) or a disinfectant wipe.
3. Wipe down: Use a disinfectant wipe or a microfiber cloth dampened with a 70 per cent isopropyl alcohol solution to wipe the screen, back gently, and sides.
4. Tackle the ports: For lint and sand in ports or crevices, use a bit of Scotch tape to lift out debris, or a toothpick for stubborn bits. Avoid poking too hard!
5. Dry off: Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
6. Let it breathe: Allow your phone to air dry for a few minutes before turning it back on.

Special situations: Sand, makeup, and more

• Fingerprints: A dry microfiber cloth is your best friend. For stubborn smudges, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water.
• Sand and lint: Scotch tape works wonders for pulling out tiny particles from speaker holes and charging ports. For really tricky spots, a small vacuum crevice tool can help.
• Makeup residue: Avoid regular makeup removers, which can damage your screen. Instead, use a screen-safe cleaner or a slightly damp microfiber cloth.

What if my phone is waterproof?

It can handle a little water if your phone boasts an IP67 rating or higher. But don’t get carried away—submerging your phone or running it under the tap is still risky. 

Instead, use a damp cloth and dry thoroughly, especially around ports and speakers. Remember, water resistance is for accidental splashes, not regular cleaning.

Have you ever been shocked by how dirty your phone gets? Do you have a favourite cleaning hack or a horror story to share? Maybe you’ve tried a UV sanitiser or have a tip for keeping your phone spotless on the go. 

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, or cleaning confessions in the comments below.

Also read: Why does my phone sometimes not ring when people call? A communications expert explains