During this unprecedented time, it’s important to remember that your devices can also be hotspots for contamination. The global state of affairs regarding the COVID-19 outbreak has made it clear to everyone that small hygiene practices can make a big difference.
Now, more than ever, we all need to be aware of possible risks to our health and the health of others. It takes some effort to keep devices clean and to sanitize them, so keeping germs and other such problems at bay is a two-fold strategy.
Strategy One is the easiest approach.
Limit your direct contact with your devices where possible, or make sure you cleanse afterwards.
A practical example is using video call or loudspeaker where available to stop your phone touching your face. If you have to handle a device that you are unsure of, wash your hands afterwards before you touch anything else (eg food). If you have disposable gloves to hand, put some on until you’ve cleaned the device.
Strategy Two is cleaning the device before you use it, to ensure that it’s clean.
Most electronics are possible to sanitise using isopropyl alcohol of 60% or higher without causing damage, but every device is different, so there is always a possibility of damage with incorrect application. A lot of manufacturers lately have put out statements on best practices to clean your devices, so a quick Google search before you start will help.
Even after this pandemic is over, please consider this advice when the yearly flu comes around, or when giving your phone to someone with a weakened immune system. When sitting round a table having coffee with your friends and someone says “Look at this picture on my phone”, consider the advice.
Once a device is deemed safe by cleaning (or essentially quarantine) then you can relax and enjoy some of the finer things in life without worry.