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In connection with the spreading COVID-19 coronavirus, scientists urge caution. However, this does not only apply to hand hygiene, but also to objects in our environment. The more that one of the largest habitats of microbes is the mobile phone, which we touch very often. For this reason, we decided to check how to clean it to get rid of germs.
Not only hands
Paradoxically, the COVID-19 coronavirus spreading around the world has sensitized us on one issue – we started taking care of proper hand hygiene. Fear of getting infected means that we do not put our hands under the tap only for a few seconds, but the vast majority already know how to wash your hands properly to get rid of germs. However, if you still have problems with proper hand hygiene, the following graphic will dispel any doubts:
Even if we care about hand hygiene, we sometimes forget about something very important, namely the smartphone that accompanies us everywhere. Since it often appears close to the face, we should pay attention to its cleanliness.
Smartphone worse than a toilet seat?
It would seem that the toilet seat is the largest habitat of microorganisms, but in many studies it is ahead of the smartphone. According to detailed analyzes There are five times more bacteria and germs on a mobile phone than on a wooden board. In the inglorious ranking of the dirtiest things there is also room for credit cards, keys and even jewelry.
- See also: These items love viruses
However, we touch the smartphone most often. We put it on various surfaces, which we cannot be sure that have been properly disinfected (e.g. in a restaurant). So the question arises as to what germs can be transmitted on phones. We hurry with the answer:
- influenza virus;
- E. coli bacteria;
- staphylococci;
- streptococci.
When we talk on the phone, epidermis, sweat, sebum and make-up residues accumulate on its surface, which – in combination with the heat generated by the device – create an ideal environment for the development of microorganisms. Sometimes, however, we forget to clean the phone.
First things first: clean your phone regularly
The most important rule for cleaning your phone is to be regular in removing germs. Scientists confirm that the best solution is to use microfiber cloths to clean glasses with glasses. Soft fibers perfectly remove grease stains on which the most microorganisms accumulate.
Second: clean the phone dry and thoroughly
Before we start cleaning, we need to check the wipe for any crumbs as the touchscreen is easily scratched. In addition, we should not use window cleaning fluid, water, solvent, alcohol, ammonia and abrasive materials for cleaning.
Such restrictions can be found on the websites of the largest companies producing electronic devices.
It is best to dry clean the phone.
We should also remember that just wiping the screen with clothes may not be enough, on the contrary – microbes will multiply.
Third: limit conversations
There are people who talk on a mobile phone very often. This may be required of them by work or an emergency. In such situations, it is more difficult to reach for a microfiber cloth every now and then to wipe the screen. Therefore, it is best to use a headset, at least during periods of increased viral and bacterial activity, to observe the recommended precautions.
This you need to know:
- The more often we disinfect our hands, the better? Not necessarily
- Hand dryers spread germs. Research confirms the risk of infections
- This is the most dangerous form of greeting. It carries 10 times more germs
- Washing your hands can protect against viruses. How to do it effectively?
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