How often and how to clean your phone

In an age when our phones are never far from our hands, they accumulate more than just fingerprints.

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Health experts warn that mobile devices can harbour germs far beyond what the eye can see, and regular cleaning is more than mere cosmetic upkeep. But how often should one clean a phone — and what is the safest method?

Specialists generally agree that a daily wipe is wise. Phones are touched thousands of times a day and often accompany us into environments full of microbes. According to health commentators, mobile devices may carry bacterial loads ten times that of a toilet seat. Cleaning once a day helps prevent grime buildup and reduces the risk of transferring germs from surfaces to skin. Some even advocate cleaning twice daily, especially if the device is used during meals or shared among users. Too little cleaning allows oils, dust, and microbial life to accumulate; too aggressive cleaning might damage delicate coatings on the screen.