We use technology every day – for entertainment, work, communication, and so much more. However, we may not have the same cleaning routines for our technology devices that we do for other objects that we touch every day.

As we become more aware about the impact of bacteria and virus transmission on our health and communities, take the time to develop hygiene routines for your devices:

• Cell phones, tablets, desk phones
• Computer and laptop keyboards, touchpads, mice and on/off buttons.

There are two ways to remove germs from mobile devices and computers:

1. Cleaning: physical removal of germs and impurities from surfaces through washing. This does not kill the germs, but it removes them from the surface and lessens the chance of transmission. This is like washing your hands with soap.
2. Disinfecting: using chemicals to kill the germs residing on surfaces. Disinfecting does not necessarily “clean” the surface, but it rids the surface of live viruses and bacteria. The CDC states that disinfecting a surface after cleaning it can further lower the risk of spreading germs. This is like using sanitizer on your hands.

Clean First, Then Disinfect

Before you Start

1. Consider using gloves while cleaning your equipment. If gloves are used, properly dispose of the gloves and immediately wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Turn off the device before cleaning or disinfecting it.
3. When wiping down any device or technology hardware with a disinfectant wipe, squeeze out excess liquid before using. Do not spray any liquids directly onto an electronic device. Do not use bleach for cleaning devices, as it can damage the finish.

How to do it

1. First, clean the surfaces using soapy water and a hand towel (squeeze out excess liquid). Removing any contaminants, dust, or debris.
2. Then apply a surface-appropriate disinfectant. The quickest and easiest way to do this is with disinfecting wipes (squeeze out any excess liquid).

Disinfecting Mobile Devices

1. For Apple devices, use Clorox Wipes, or products with similar concentrations of disinfectant.
2. Samsung has not yet released information on how users can disinfect its mobile devices without damaging the screens or casing.
3. The following solutions are NOT recommended for disinfecting your cell phone or other mobile device because it could cause damage:
   • Window cleaner
   • Kitchen cleaners
   • Paper towels—they don’t disinfect, anyway
   • Rubbing alcohol
   • Makeup remover
   • Dish soap or hand soap with water
   • Vinegar

Disinfecting Laptops and Other Hardware

First, turn off the computer/laptop and disconnect the keyboard or mouse you are about to disinfect.

1. Keyboard and laptop: Turn them upside down and shake or tap out any crumbs, dust or dirt over a trash can. Next, wipe the keyboard with a disinfecting wipe, or spray a towel with disinfectant and wipe off the keyboard.
2. Mouse: Turn off or remove the batteries (if wireless) and ensure there’s not dirt or particles stuck in the scroll wheel. Next, wipe the outside of the mouse with a disinfectant wipe, or spray a towel with disinfectant and wipe off the mouse. Take care not to get liquid into openings.
3. Laptop Touchpads: Turn off the laptop and then wipe the touchpad with a disinfectant wipe, or spray a towel with disinfectant and wipe off the touchpad.
4. Computer and laptop on/off buttons: Wipe off the button and surrounding area with a disinfectant wipe, or spray a towel with disinfectant and wipe off the button and surrounding area. Be careful not to get disinfectant into the gaps between the button and the casing that surrounds it.
5. HP laptop touch screens: HP has very specific instructions on how to clean their all-in-one computer touchscreens, but nothing on how to clean their laptop touchscreens. In an abundance of caution for your HP laptop touchscreen, it’s best to use their instructions on how to clean their all-in-one computer touchscreens. Please note that they do not provide information on how to disinfect their laptop touchscreens.

References

• CDC: “Interim Recommendations for US Households with Disinfected/Confirmed Coronavirus Disease 2019”
• CNET: “Help keep coronavirus off your phone: How to effectively clean and disinfect your device”
• CNET: “Your keyboard and mouse are filthy. Here’s how to clean them”
• HP: “How to clean your laptop screen”
• HP: “HP PCs – Cleaning and Disinfecting your Computer”
• Service Master Clean: “How to implement best practices to disinfect hospital computer workstations and nurse workstations”