GSMA Intelligence, which provides mobile operator data, analysis and forecasts, reported last year that 5 billion people have a mobile phone connection. That translates to two-thirds of the world’s population carrying some sort of cellphone device. And, since phones are handled constantly, a plethora of germs subsists on their surfaces.
To keep dirt, grime and other unpleasantness off fingers and away from the face — especially during cold and flu season — Greenbot.com offers these tips:
— Clean phone daily with special pre-moistened anti-bacterial wipes, like Wireless Wipes; or, make your own solutios with either eight ounces of 70 percent rubbing alcohol and an equal amount of distilled water, or 50 percent white vinegar and 50 percent distilled water. Either one works. Just make sure not to use tap water, as it can leave residue on the phone. Wipe gently with screen-safe toilettes.
— Use toothpicks and cotton swabs to get gunk out of the crevices.
— To achieve an extra level of cleanliness, there are UV sanitizer docking station devices that supposedly kill 99.9 percent of germs. Several brands are available that sell for around $50.
Always check manufacturers’ instructions regarding cleaning. Make sure the phone is not cleaned in a way that would jeopardize the warranty.
Never spray a phone with cleaner, and avoid using abrasive wipes such as paper towels. Most phones come with a safe microfiber or lint-free cloth.
HGTV reports that the typical cellphone is actually dirtier than a toilet seat. When considering where a phone is taken and placed daily, this fact may come as no surprise. Subways, offices, bleachers, restaurants and other public areas are breeding grounds for E. coli and Streptococcus — just to name a few culprits.
More ways to avoid sullied devices include: stop taking the phone into the bathroom, and purchase an antimicrobial cover.
In general, most germs and filth on a phone are the result of unclean hands. Wash them often with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.