How to Clean Your Phone Screen Properly (Without Damaging It)

Introduction

Your phone screen gets touched hundreds of times per day, accumulating germs, fingerprints, and grime. Cleaning it properly not only keeps it hygienic but also prevents damage to the screen coating.

At Unlimited Cheap Talk Wireless in Decatur, we see phones with damaged screen coatings from improper cleaning methods. Here's how to clean your phone correctly.

What NOT to Use

First, let's cover what can damage your screen:

• Paper towels: Can scratch the screen coating
• Window cleaner: Too harsh, can damage coatings
• Bleach or ammonia: Will damage screen permanently
• Rubbing alcohol: Can strip protective coatings
• Compressed air: Can push debris into ports and openings

The Right Way to Clean

Step 1: Power Off

Turn off your phone completely. This prevents accidental touches and allows you to see smudges better.

Step 2: Remove Case

Take off your phone case to clean the edges and remove any trapped debris.

Step 3: Use Microfiber Cloth

Start with a clean, dry microfiber cloth (like the ones for glasses). Gently wipe the screen in circular motions. This removes most fingerprints and dust.

Step 4: For Stubborn Smudges

If dry wiping doesn't work, slightly dampen the microfiber cloth with water (distilled is best, but tap water works). Wring it out completely - it should feel barely damp, not wet. Wipe the screen gently, then immediately dry with another clean microfiber cloth.

Step 5: Clean the Edges

Use a cotton swab slightly dampened with water to clean around the screen edges and ports. Be careful not to get moisture in ports.

Cleaning Frequency

For everyday cleaning, a dry microfiber cloth is sufficient. For deeper cleaning, once a week is usually enough. If you share your phone or use it in public places frequently, clean more often.

During flu season or after being in crowded places, clean your phone daily to reduce germ transfer.

Cleaning the Case

Don't forget to clean your case too. Remove it, wash with mild soap and water, dry thoroughly, then reinstall. A dirty case can scratch your phone.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

If your screen has persistent stains, visible damage to the coating, or you've accidentally used harsh chemicals, bring it to us. We can assess the damage and determine if screen replacement is needed.

At Unlimited Cheap Talk Wireless in Decatur, we also offer professional phone cleaning services, including deep cleaning of ports and speakers.

Visit Our Decatur Location

For phone cleaning supplies or professional cleaning services, visit Unlimited Cheap Talk Wireless at 4525 Glenwood Road, Suite J-3 in Decatur. We're open Sunday-Monday 12-5pm, Wednesday-Thursday 11am-6pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-7pm. Closed Tuesdays. Call (404) 289-4500.