Tech company reveals the 'standard' way to clean smartphones

Smartphones, laptops, headphones, and other electronic devices have become essential tools for daily work and entertainment. However, constant typing, scrolling, and listening to music also means that these devices gradually accumulate dust and dirt that need to be cleaned.

You may not think about cleaning your devices often, but according to Logitech, the maker of keyboards, webcams, and many other computer accessories, it's a good idea.

“Regular cleaning and proper maintenance not only keeps your devices looking new and hygienic, but also helps them work more efficiently and last longer. For devices like earbuds, the buildup of dirt and bacteria can even cause health problems or discomfort,” the company said.

Here are some tips for cleaning your tech devices.

Technological devices need regular cleaning and proper maintenance. (Photo: CNET)

Start with the manufacturer's instructions

First, check to see if the manufacturer provides specific instructions for cleaning your device. Have some basic supplies on hand, including a soft cloth, cotton swabs, a soft-bristled brush (a toothbrush, paintbrush, or makeup brush will do), a can of compressed air, and isopropyl alcohol.

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a cleaning solvent with disinfectant and antibacterial properties. It is a popular choice for cleaning electronics because it leaves no residue and evaporates quickly. Consider wearing gloves to avoid skin irritation. Apply the solution to a cloth and wipe it down, rather than pouring it directly onto the device. Also, pay attention to the specific warnings below.

Mild soap and water are also good for cleaning dirty surfaces, but for internal components, isopropyl alcohol is recommended, says Alex Diaz-Kokaisl, senior technical expert at electronics repair company iFixit. “ While there are no hard and fast rules for cleaning electronics, we typically use high concentrations of isopropyl alcohol (over 90%) because it evaporates very quickly ,” he says. “ The faster the liquid evaporates, the less risk it has of affecting conductive components.”

Regardless of the device, before cleaning, disconnect or turn it off completely. Also remove covers, plugs, covers and accessories.

Computers and laptops

When using a computer, the keyboard and mouse are the parts that are touched the most, so they need to be cleaned the most often. The gaps between the keys on the keyboard are also very susceptible to food crumbs and dirt.

Necessary tools when cleaning a laptop. (Photo: The New York Times)

To remove loose dust and debris, iFixit's official cleaning guide recommends using a can of compressed air. Spray back and forth across the surface of the keys to blow away debris. If possible, turn the keyboard upside down to let the dust fall out.

If you don’t have a can of compressed air, Logitech suggests using a hair dryer on the cold setting. Some social media users also recommend using a hand balloon pump as an alternative.

Next, lightly dampen a cloth with water and gently wipe down the surface of the keyboard and mouse. Logitech says that rubbing alcohol can be used, but recommends testing it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't discolor or cause the letters on the keys to fade.

Additionally, antibacterial baby wipes can also be used to clean devices like mice, according to Diaz-Kokaisl.

For laptop or external monitors, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away fingerprints. For more stubborn stains, such as food or sneeze droplets, moisten the cloth with distilled water or a 50/50 solution of distilled water and vinegar.

The mild acidity of vinegar can help break down grease and fingerprints. Avoid using household glass cleaners, as they often contain ammonia, which can damage the screen. Paper towels are also not suitable, as they can scratch the surface. HP also warns against using rubbing alcohol to clean the screen.

AirPods and headphones

Many people listen to music or podcasts with earbuds, but that also means they need to be cleaned regularly to remove earwax, natural skin oils, or other buildup.

Headphones can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned properly. (Photo: 9to5mac)

If your headphones have silicone tips, remove them first. Cleaning methods vary by brand and model. Logitech and Bose recommend using a mild soapy solution. However, Sony warns against using water or a wet cloth, as this can damage the material faster; instead, it recommends using a dry cloth.

Use a cotton swab to clean the nozzle.

For Apple AirPods, cleaning the speaker mesh is a bit more complicated. You’ll need a child’s toothbrush, two small cups, paper towels, distilled water, and micellar water (the same water used to remove makeup). Pour some micellar water into the cup, dip your toothbrush in it, brush the mesh of your AirPods, and then pat dry with a paper towel. Repeat this twice. Then, repeat the process but replace it with distilled water to rinse away any remaining micellar residue. Finally, let your AirPods air dry for at least two hours before using them again.

To clean the rest of the AirPods, use a damp cloth to gently wipe them down. Don’t forget the charging case: Apple recommends using a brush to remove any debris inside, then wiping it down with a dry cloth. If necessary, you can dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol to clean it.

Over-ear headphones: Bose says you should clean them at least once a week, especially after a workout, to remove dirt and bacteria that might be hiding in the crevices. Remove the pads and use a cloth soaked in mild soapy water to clean them.

Smartphone

Apple has posted detailed instructions on its website for various iPhone models, while Samsung has similar recommendations for its Galaxy line.

Both companies recommend using a soft, lint-free cloth (like a lens cloth) to gently wipe the exterior of the phone. Apple warns against using cleaning solutions, as they can wear down the iPhone’s anti-fingerprint coating. However, both Apple and Samsung say it’s OK to use a disinfectant solution like isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the exterior, but avoid using bleach or hydrogen peroxide.

Ngoc Nguyen (AP)

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/hang-cong-nghe-tiet-lo-cach-ve-sinh-smartphone-chuan-ar962080.html