How to Clean Electronic Devices | The Right Way

Most device damage during cleaning comes from one mistake: spraying liquid directly onto the gadget. That sends moisture into ports, speakers, and microphones that were never sealed against it. The safe approach for any phone, laptop, or tablet starts with powering down and unplugging, then using a dry microfiber cloth on the exterior. When a deeper clean is needed, both Apple and Samsung approve specific disinfectants—but only for certain surfaces and never as a spray.

What Cleaning Solutions Are Safe for Phones?

The short version: distilled water or mild disinfectant wipes on a cloth are fine for phone exteriors; harsh chemicals are not.

Apple explicitly allows gently wiping iPhone exterior surfaces with a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe, 75 percent ethyl alcohol wipe, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes. Samsung’s guidance for Galaxy phones is similar, permitting a cloth dampened with distilled water or a disinfectant such as hypochlorous acid-based (50–80 ppm) or alcohol-based (>70% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol) products.

Neither manufacturer permits bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Apple calls those out directly, and Samsung’s instructions warn against bleach sprays. Both companies also stress keeping moisture away from openings and avoiding compressed air, which can force particles deeper into ports.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning iPhone and Galaxy Phones Safely

The procedure for both major phone brands is nearly identical: power down first, then wipe, then disinfect only if needed.

For iPhone: disconnect all cables, power the phone off, and wipe the exterior with a soft, slightly damp lint-free cloth. If you want to disinfect, use one of Apple’s approved wipes listed above and follow the label’s contact time—keep the surface wet for that duration. Let the phone air-dry completely.

For Samsung Galaxy: turn the device off, remove the case and any cables, and wipe with a microfiber cloth. If a deeper clean is needed, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water or an approved disinfectant. Samsung’s Galaxy S23 guidance adds that the phone should air-dry fully before use. Avoid excessive wiping pressure, which can damage oleophobic coatings that repel fingerprints.

One important limitation: Samsung notes its cleaning method applies to glass, ceramic, and metal surfaces—not to soft accessories like leather, rubber, or plastic cases. Those need gentler treatment or manufacturer-specific care instructions.

If cleaning products or devices themselves are on your shopping list, our tested roundup of top-rated cleaning devices for every surface covers options worth comparing before you buy.

What Mistakes Damage Electronics During Cleaning?

Most cleaning failures trace back to a short list of avoidable errors that send liquid where it does not belong.

• Spraying cleaner directly on the device. Always spray onto the cloth, never the gadget. This is the single most common cause of moisture damage.
• Using bleach or products containing it. Apple and Samsung both prohibit bleach, which can strip coatings and corrode contacts.
• Submerging devices in any liquid. Even “water-resistant” phones have limits—cleaning is not the same as an accidental drop in a pool.
• Relying on compressed air. It can push dust and debris deeper into ports and speakers rather than removing it.
• Wiping with excessive pressure. This wears down oleophobic coatings on screens and can scratch softer surfaces. A light touch works fine.

When disinfecting rather than simply cleaning, respect the label’s contact time.

FAQs

Can I use hand sanitizer to clean my phone screen?
Hand sanitizer typically contains 60–70% alcohol, which falls within the range Apple and Samsung approve for phone exteriors. The risk is the other ingredients—gels and moisturizers can leave residue on oleophobic coatings. If you use it, apply a small amount to a microfiber cloth, wipe gently, then follow with a dry section of the cloth to remove any film.

How often should I clean my phone?
Daily wiping with a dry microfiber cloth removes most oils and dirt. Disinfecting once a day is reasonable during cold and flu season, especially if you carry your phone everywhere. More frequent disinfection is unlikely to harm the device, but excessive wiping with harsh chemicals can gradually wear down protective coatings on the screen.

Is it safe to clean a phone while it’s charging?
No. Moisture near the charging port while current is flowing increases the risk of short circuits. Power the device off and unplug it before cleaning, then wait for it to dry fully before reconnecting. The same rule applies to laptops and tablets.