Your Phone is Dirtier Than a Toilet Seat.
Most cell phones, keyboards, mice, and tablets carry more germs on their screens than the average workplace telephone receiver or keyboard. Seems obvious, but you should properly clean devices as you do with other places in your life. Since you are likely reading this on the john right now – you may want to think twice about grabbing chips when you get back to your desk if you forgot to wash your hands.
94.5% of cell phone and tablet touch screens are contaminated with bad bacteria.
Mobile phones travel around in pockets, briefcases, and purses attracting germs from dollar bills, the desk, restaurant tables and the kitchen counter. And when shared with others, that trusty device gathers germs from everyone who touches it.
Studies show cell phone and tablet computer touch screens are covered in bacteria. The “Annals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials,” found 94.5% of phones were contaminated with some kind of bacteria, many of which were resistant to multiple antibiotics. In a separate study, a sample of smart phones showed abnormally high numbers of coliforms, a bacteria indicating fecal contamination.
We know you’ve been warned before, but with cold and flu season upon us… it’s time to get even more serious about keeping our electronics germ-free! Especially now that kids of all ages use tablets, phones, and other devices.
How to Properly Clean Devices, keyboards, phones, and televisions
Use a lint free cloth and rubbing alcohol (no, not whiskey). Some manufacturers, however, recommend not using alcohol on sensitive screens (Apple warns not to use any product with alcohol on iPhones or iPads). Purchase microfiber wipes that include an antimicrobial agent.
Listen to your Mom and wash your hands before you eat. If you are an overachiever, here is how surgeons wash their hands. If you are on your phone while you are eating you may as well eat in the bathroom.
Properly cleaning devices like phones, tablets, keyboards, and your mouse can help eliminate the spread of germs, keep you and those around you healthier – and maybe you won’t miss out on your mom’s Thanksgiving dinner this year.
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