The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that phones and personal electronic devices are considered “high-touch” surfaces which make it a carrier for the new coronavirus. Cleaning your device regularly is a good way to help keep germs off your hands.

According to the CDC, most alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective in killing the virus on hard surfaces.

Here are some simple steps you can take to disinfect your device safely:

Power Down Your Device

First, power down your device and unplug all external power sources, devices, and cables.

Clean device with disinfectant cloth

Apple recommends that you use a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes to gently wipe the hard, nonporous surfaces of your device, such as the display, keyboard, or other exterior surfaces.

No wipes? Use cleaning spray

If you don’t have any disinfectant wipes, spray a non-abrasive or alcohol-based (70% isopropyl) disinfectant directly on a soft lint-free cloth and wipe down your device. You should avoid getting moisture in any opening, and don’t submerge your device in any cleaning agents.

Be sure to clean your devices any time you come in from public places and at least once a day and help prevent the spread of illness.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.