Remove germs from tech gadgets with a digital detox 

Consider this fact; Americans check their phones about 52 times a day. Each time you pick it up to read an email, text, view social media or make a call, your hands and fingers, one of the biggest carriers of germs, is contaminating the surface.

How often are you cleaning your phone? What about all of your other tech devices you use on a regular basis? Has it been awhile since you’ve given a thorough cleaning to your cell phone screen or wiped down the surface of your laptop? 

Just about all of us use technology –from cell phones, laptops, earbuds, fitness trackers, or computers, these gadgets have become an essential lifeline keeping our businesses, work, and our lives running smoothly.  But are you taking the time to “debug” them often?  Every day (hopefully) we take showers or baths to cleanse our bodies of dirt, sweat, and grime.  Our digital devices deserve a detailed cleaning also, not just to make them look good but primarily to keep you healthy.

Research shows that cell phones are far dirtier than most people think and the more germs they collect, the more germs you touch, increasing your risk of catching a contagious infection. In fact, scientists at the University of Arizona have found that cell phones carry 10 times more bacteria than toilet seats. However, all digital devices are at risk of being contaminated with potentially dangerous viruses and bugs in general that could make you sick.

Getting rid of the germs on your gadgets

While there is no epidemic of tech-related infections, there is the potential of harmful bacteria and pathogens possibly harboring on these devices. Daily cleanings are not necessary for most of these gadgets but a regular cleaning schedule is a good bet for getting rid of “techy” germs.

Here’s a look at popular technology devices, what types of pathogens may be found on them and how to give them a thorough scrub keeping you safe and healthy:

·      Smartphones

These wildly popular devices are such a ubiquitous part of our lifestyles that we’d be lost without them.  However, germs have a tendency to like them too which might include cold and flu viruses. 

Keeping them clean: To remove dirt, grime, and germs from smartphone screens, use a microfiber cloth which can remove up to 99% of microbes found on them.  Each day use these cloths to go over the surface.  Avoid using any kind of liquid cleaners or alcohols which might damage the screen.

·      Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker

The likelihood of these devices harboring a plethora of germs is not as high, unless you work in a health care setting.  Research has shown that healthcare workers may inadvertently pick up bacteria such as MRSA and E. coli on them.

Keeping them clean: To get these devices germ-free, wipe bands down with a lint-free cloth once a week. Use rubbing alcohol with a cloth to remove residue from silicone or TPU elastomer bands and then rinse with water. Before wearing the device again, let the band dry completely to avoid a moist environment encouraging bacterial growth.

·      Computers

Whether it’s your laptop or a PC, computers and their keyboards, are notorious for possibly being contaminated with the cold and flu viruses and even norovirus.

Keeping them clean:  Before attempting to clean your computer, turn it off first. Then, using an all-purpose mist, wipe it down gently with a cloth. Do the same with the mouse and keyboard.  To remove any particles that invariably find their way into the keyboard crevices, use an air-duster to blow them out. 

·      Earbuds

No matter how great you take care of your earbuds, dirt, debris, and ear wax can build up over time. And because of their placement on your body, if they happen to be harboring staph, strep, E. coli, or fungi, any of these could lead to a nasty ear infection.

Keeping them clean: Earbuds should be cleaned about once a week. It should go without saying but be sure they are unplugged before attempting to scrub them of germs. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the earbuds down.  If the ear tips detach, remove and wash with mild soap and water. Rinse and dry completely with a soft cloth before reattaching them to the earbuds. 

Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.  Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.