Your phone is 20 times dirtier than a public toilet seat, with thousands of bacteria lurking on its surface—1 in 6 even carries harmful germs like E. coli! Clean it daily with a dry cloth and do a deep clean a few times a week. While phones don’t cause cancer, using one while driving is super risky (and illegal in Australia).

The Hidden Germ Haven

Your phone is a germ magnet, picking up bacteria from your hands, tables, and even gym equipment. Bathrooms are not safe either—airborne germs and water droplets land right on your screen! The heat from your phone creates the perfect spot for bacteria to grow, especially in your pocket or hand. Sweat, humidity, and accidental splashes make things even worse. Plus, constant handling spreads oils and dirt, helping germs thrive!

Common Illness Linked to Dirty Smartphones

Your phone can spread colds, flu, and even stomach bugs like E. coli and norovirus! Bacteria like Staphylococcus can transfer from your phone to your face, causing skin infections. Studies show phones carry more germs than toilet seats—yep, even MRSA has been found on them! Viruses like the flu can survive on your phone for hours, making it easy to catch something. Since we touch our phones all day but rarely clean them, they become a hotspot for germs!

Are You Making It Worse? Bad Phone Hygiene Habits

Using your phone while eating can transfer bacteria like E. coli from your hands to your food—yuck! Taking it into the bathroom exposes it to airborne germs and fecal bacteria that can later end up on your face. In the gym, your phone collects sweat and bacteria from communal equipment and becomes a germ playground. Handing over phones without wiping transmits cold, flu, and skin bacteria between people. Furthermore, putting your phone on unclean surfaces has the germs readily transferring back to your face and hands!

How to Keep Your Smartphone Clean and Germ-Free

Sanitize your phone every day, after meals, a trip to the bathroom, or a visit to the gym! Alcohol wipes (70% isopropyl) destroy germs without damaging your screen, and UV sanitizers kill bacteria without water. A microfiber cloth cleans oils and dirt carefully without scratching. Wash your hands before handling your phone and never put it on public surfaces. Have an easy-to-clean phone case and disinfect both regularly to stay germ-free!

Beyond Your Phone: Keeping Accessories and Hands Clean

Your case, earbuds, and screen protector collect as many germs as your phone—so wash them as well! Earbuds can become infected with bacteria and cause ear infections, and cases collect dirt and sweat. Wash your hands for 20 seconds or even use hand sanitizer before touching your phone to minimize germs. Do not put your phone on public surfaces such as tables or gym equipment. After public use of your phone, wash your hands and clean it to remain germ-free!

Your cell phone is an everyday necessity, but it's also a breeding ground for germs! Cleaning regularly, practicing good hygiene, and careful handling can keep bacteria at bay. A little goes a long way in safeguarding your health—so wipe, wash, and sanitize!