Galway

You spend a lot of time with your smartphone or tablet in your hand, you let it down on tables, bathroom counters, all kinds of surfaces and some godforsaken places. Phones get dirty quickly but getting them clean is easy to do. 
<ul>
<li style="text-align:left;">During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s essential to clean commonly touched surfaces.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Device touch screens can usually be cleaned using disinfecting wipes, but check with the maker of your phone first.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">The average person touches their smartphone 2,617 times per day</li>
</ul>
According to the WHO studies suggest coronavirus may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days. This can vary depending on temperature and humidity. In light of this, you must regularly clean your smartphone. 

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How to clean your smartphone. 
First and foremost, you will want to consult the website for the manufacturer of your phone or carrying case for any specific instructions that they might have to avoid damaging your device or case. 
Many manufacturers, including Apple, have provided recommendations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While specific instructions may vary depending on your device, Apple is advising the following for its products: 
<ul>
<li style="text-align:left;">Use only a soft, lint-free cloth.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Avoid excessive wiping.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Unplug all power sources, devices, and cables.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Keep liquids away from your device.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Don’t allow moisture to get into any openings.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Avoid aerosol sprays, bleaches, and abrasives.</li>
<li style="text-align:left;">Avoid spraying cleaners directly onto your device.</li>
</ul>
Apple is recommending the use of 70 per cent isopropyl alcohol wipes or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes to wipe down any hard, nonporous surfaces. However, they say you should avoid using them on leather or fabric to prevent damage. 
How often should you clean your smartphone? 
The most likely way that your device would become contaminated is for someone to sneeze or cough near it. So, if you have been near anyone who is coughing or sneezing, it would be a good idea to clean your phone. 
If you are washing your <a href="https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/how-to-wash-your-hands.html" target="_self">hands properly and often</a>, you should try to clean your smartphone once or twice a day. If your phone is being left down on shared surfaces, clean it more often. 
If you have any concerns about Coronavirus (COVID-19) please visit the HSE website. It is the best source of trusted information.

Keeping your third hand clean - How to effectively clean your device

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