Is My Phone Disinfection Routine Too Excessive During COVID-19?

Disinfection of the coronavirus?

Recently, due to the pandemic, I often clean my phone before going to bed.
However, this has led to arguments with my family, who say that I am being overly excessive.
I want to ask the doctor if I am really over-cleaning.
Currently, I disinfect my phone with alcohol every time I go out.
Is this excessive? Are there specific situations where disinfection is sufficient, and is it unnecessary to clean every time I go out? What would be a more normal cleaning routine? Thank you, doctor.

Xiao Yao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/03

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Since I did not see your disinfection practices, I recommend a reasonable disinfection method: areas that are frequently exposed to the outside should be cleaned and disinfected upon returning home.
For instance, hand sanitization should be done frequently, and you should wash your hands whenever possible.
As for your phone, it would be better to minimize its use outdoors and disinfect it together with other items when you return home, rather than just before bedtime.

Reply Date: 2021/10/03

More Info

Your concern about phone disinfection during the COVID-19 pandemic is quite valid, especially given the heightened awareness of hygiene and the potential for virus transmission. However, it's essential to strike a balance between maintaining cleanliness and avoiding excessive measures that may lead to unnecessary stress or conflict with family members.

Understanding the Risks
COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread via surfaces, but the risk of transmission through surfaces, including phones, is considered lower compared to direct person-to-person contact. The virus can survive on surfaces for varying durations, depending on the material, but regular cleaning can significantly reduce this risk.

Cleaning Routine
1. Frequency of Cleaning: Cleaning your phone after being in public places is a good practice, especially if you have touched surfaces that may be contaminated. However, doing a thorough cleaning every time you come home might be excessive unless you have been in a high-risk environment (like crowded places or healthcare settings). A reasonable approach would be to clean your phone after outings where you have had close contact with others or touched shared surfaces.

2. Cleaning Method: Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with a mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol (at least 70% alcohol) or disinfectant wipes that are safe for electronics. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaking your device, as this can damage it.
3. Focus on High-Touch Areas: Instead of a full disinfection every time, focus on high-touch areas like the screen, buttons, and edges of your phone. This targeted approach can help reduce the amount of cleaning required while still maintaining hygiene.

4. Communication with Family: If your cleaning routine is causing tension at home, it might be helpful to explain your reasoning to your family. Share your concerns about health and safety, and perhaps agree on a cleaning schedule that everyone is comfortable with.

Psychological Aspect
It's also important to consider the psychological impact of excessive cleaning. While maintaining hygiene is crucial, obsessive cleaning can lead to increased anxiety and stress. If you find that your cleaning habits are causing you distress or affecting your relationships, it might be worth reflecting on whether these habits are serving your health or contributing to anxiety.

Conclusion
In summary, while it is commendable to maintain a clean phone, especially during a pandemic, it is essential to find a balance that works for you and your family. Cleaning your phone after outings is a good practice, but doing so excessively may not be necessary. Focus on high-touch areas and communicate openly with your family about your concerns. If you feel that your cleaning habits are becoming excessive or are causing you stress, consider discussing this with a healthcare professional or a counselor for additional support.

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