Cleaning and disinfecting the mobile has become a hygiene habit that is increasingly assimilated by society. The mobile has become an essential daily personal and work tool for many of us. A point has come where we always carry it with us, which can be considered an extension of our arm. Let’s go to the kitchen. To the garden? On the street? To the bathroom? The mobile comes with us without being aware of the number of harmful factors that end up on the surface of our devices. That is why it is so important to ask ourselves: How to clean and disinfect the mobile?
It is estimated that, in Spain, 88% of the population currently has a mobile phone, and we use it for about 3 hours and 30 minutes on average daily. This time has experienced an increase due to the arrival of the pandemic and the consequent confinement: There was an increase in its use to work, communicate with each other, entertain ourselves… In addition, the coronavirus caused greater awareness about the risks we run if we do not frequently clean and disinfect our mobiles.
Although the most sensible and recommended thing is to avoid spreading any virus, bacteria, or another harmful agent by washing hands frequently, the truth is that mobile is a crucial source of infection. It has been proven that a mobile contains ten times more bacteria than a toilet. Yes, although it is hard to believe, mobile screens carry a large amount of dirt and germs that, although not visible, are there.
Considering the amount of time we spend next to the mobile and that it is in contact with our hands, ears, mouth, etc., after touching all kinds of surfaces during the day, cleaning and disinfecting the mobile should be a practically daily ritual if we want to avoid possible severe infection.
And you may be wondering… Do I have to clean my mobile or disinfect it? The answer is Both! Here is the crucial difference between cleaning and disinfecting:
CLEAN OR DISINFECT THE MOBILE
Although it may seem that cleaning and disinfecting are the same, it is not. The process of cleaning refers to removing dirt that is visible to our eyes. However, disinfecting an object involves exterminating the germs that may have remained on its surface, even after cleaning.
For this reason, it is essential to carry out both processes to prevent the transmission of viruses and bacteria, which can survive on some materials such as plastic or glass for up to 9 days.
TIPS TO AVOID GERMS ON YOUR MOBILE
Before moving on to the steps of cleaning and disinfecting the mobile, we want to make some recommendations to prevent the presence of viruses or bacteria on mobile phones.
First, we recommend using silicone or gel covers instead of other materials, such as leather, as this will make the washing process much more manageable. We also recommend washing our hands properly, especially before and after picking up the mobile. Finally, talking with the mask on is an excellent option to avoid this transmission.
