Photo: juanpg / Flickr

Most of us cannot go without having a bath, brushing our teeth or changing a pair of underpants for a long period of time. The idea of germs and bacteria building up is enough to put anyone off. Yet when it comes to our gadgets, which we also use on a daily basis, we seldom or never clean them. A day in the life of a mobile can be quite grimy. Just think how many surfaces it has been placed on, how many ears it has covered and how many hands it has passed through.

The owner’s pocket, which is usually where most mobiles live, is also dark and gloomy, making it a wonderful breeding ground for living organisms.

Harmful effects of a dirty mobile

Due to its very busy lifestyle, a mobile phone can build up on debris and harmful germs and bacteria. Smartphones are even more of a problem as germs from your hands are transferred more easily to your phone. This can be harmful to the body, causing skin rashes and sparking on other infections as a phone can contain up to 18 times more bacteria than a public restroom.

Good Morning America featured a story covering germs found on mobiles and a consumer correspondent, Elizabeth Learny, said, ‘Researchers have found the flu virus, staph infection, MRSA, and more on mobile phones. Since so many people handle their phones while they’re eating, those germs have a direct path into our bodies.’

How to clean your phone

It is recommended that you clean your mobile on a daily basis. Unlike other household chores, it should be quick and easy. All you have to do is wipe it with a damp, soft swab that is compatible with your phone. Check what materials the manufacturer recommends in your instruction manual. Most phones can be disassembled and this should be done so that you can reach as much as you can.

Cleaning your mobile is essential for your health and for your children’s health. Many have fallen into the trap of giving their little ones the phone to play, but this is not recommended, especially since they may have a tendency to put them in their mouths.

Tags: cleaning, health