How To Handle Cleaning Your Devices During The Pandemic
Without elaborating on all the places you may or may not admit to bringing your smartphone, let’s just say you know your phone is dirty! But what is the best way to clean and disinfect these and other electronic devices to avoid the spread of germs and viruses like COVID-19?
For electronics it is important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions first. If no guidance is available, the use of alcohol-based wipes or spray containing at least 70% alcohol is generally considered safe for disinfecting touch screens. Here are the recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Yale Environmental Health and Safety guidelines.
The Process
– Unplug all external power sources and cables.
– You should first remove any visible contamination from cell phones, tablets, touch screens, remote controls, and keyboards.
– Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
– Disinfecting wipes may be used on covers of electronics. Follow the label- recommended time to allow the product to remain on the surface.
– Dry surfaces thoroughly – you want to avoid any pooling of liquids.
– If possible, choose a lint-free cloth, specifically made for screens or use a cleaning cloth made from microfiber.
– Don’t overdo it with excessive wiping or submerging an item in the cleanser
– Aerosol sprays, bleach or abrasive cleaners should not be used on electronics.
– Take care not to allow moisture into any openings and never spray cleaner directly on a device.
– While cleaning, be sure to include the display, keyboard, mouse and the exterior surface of the device.
Resources:
Information and additional resources cited from a Yale Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines memorandum accessed at
https://ehs.yale.edu/sites/default/files/files/covid-19-cleaning-computers-electronics.pdf
Resources cited: CDC: Cleaning & Disinfecting Schools • Apple: How to Clean your Apple Products • Microsoft: Clean and Care for your Surface