A Brief Guide to Keeping Your Smartphone Clean and Dust-Free

Having a smartphone goes beyond just owning it, these are handy devices that get watered on, collect dirt, and germs over time, given that we carry them with us everywhere we go. To ensure your smartphone remains in pristine condition and functions optimally, regular cleaning and dusting are essential.

What you need to clean

Before you begin cleaning your smartphone, gather the necessary supplies:

1. Microfiber cloth: Choose a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to avoid scratches on your device’s screen and body.
2. Isopropyl alcohol wipes: These wipes are effective in removing stubborn stains and germs without causing damage.
3. Cotton swabs: Use these for cleaning crevices and hard-to-reach areas, like around the edges of the screen and buttons.
4. Compressed air can: For removing dust and debris from speaker grilles, ports, and other openings.
5. Smartphone cleaning gel: Optional but useful for removing fingerprints and smudges.

It has been recommended on several occasions never to use water, window cleaner, or household cleaning products to clean your smartphone, as they can damage the device’s delicate components.

To start cleaning your phone

Before any cleaning is done, power off your phone and unplug it from any power sources. This precaution ensures your safety and prevents accidental damage to your device.

1. Start by cleaning the exterior: Take the microfiber cloth and gently wipe the screen in a circular motion. Avoid using paper towels or rough cloths, as they may cause scratches. If there are stubborn smudges, you can apply a small amount of smartphone cleaning gel to the cloth and then wipe the screen again.

Dust/dirt can accumulate around the edges and buttons of your smartphone. Dampen a corner of the microfiber cloth with isopropyl alcohol and gently clean the exterior, including the back of the device and the buttons. Avoid using excessive liquid, as it can seep into the phone and cause damage.

2. Clean the Ports and Openings: Over time, ports like the charging port, headphone jack, and speaker grilles can accumulate dust and debris. To clean these areas, use the compressed air can.

Hold the smartphone with the affected port facing down and give it short bursts of air to dislodge the dust. For stubborn dirt, carefully use a cotton swab to remove it, but be gentle to avoid damage.

3. Remove Dust from Camera Lens: The camera lens can affect the quality of your photos if it’s dirty or dusty. Take another corner of the microfiber cloth and gently wipe the camera lens.

If there’s persistent dirt, use a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to clean it.

Notably, if your phone has a case, it is also in your best interest to clean it. You can use a mild soap solution and water to gently wash it. Allow the case to dry completely before putting your smartphone back in it.

While cleaning your phone, you can also update your apps & device’s software, uninstall apps you don’t use, and delete unnecessary media from your gallery

So, keeping your smartphone clean and dust-free not only ensures it looks good but also helps maintain its performance and longevity. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the right tools, you can easily keep your smartphone in top-notch condition. Make cleaning your smartphone a regular part of your routine, and you’ll enjoy a pristine device that serves you well for years to come.

ALSO READ: HOW TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN YOUR COMPUTER