Similar to the concerns with using high-concentration isopropyl alcohol, the alcohol in hand sanitizers can strip away the oleophobic (oil-repellent) coating on your phone's screen. This coating is what gives the screen its smooth, smudge-resistant feel and makes it easier to clean.
Protect your screen
Do not use rubbing alcohol, paper towels, compressed air, dish soap or vinegar. All of these can damage your phone: Paper towels can scratch your screen, and vinegar could damage its coating. Do not use hand sanitizer on your phone screen, but do sanitize your hands before touching your phone.
Using hand sanitizer on your computer, TV, and cellphone screens is not recommended. Most hand sanitizers contain alcohol, which can damage the protective coatings on screens, leading to issues like discoloration, cloudiness, or even reduced touch sensitivity.
Hand sanitizer can be used to clean away smudges on glass surfaces. Yes, this means your precious iPhone or computer screen can be smudge free with a simple spray and wipe.
The answer is no. Alcohol can cause damage to the screen of your phone and should not be used as a cleaner unless it is specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
Can I use isopropyl alcohol directly on the screen to clean tough stains? It's not recommended to apply isopropyl alcohol directly on the screen. Instead, dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol and water mixture. Excessive alcohol can harm the screen coatings, so use it sparingly.
First, lightly dampen the corner of a microfiber cloth with 70% isopropyl alcohol, or regular rubbing alcohol you can find it at your grocery store or pharmacy. Then, thoroughly wipe your phone screen with the damp part of the cloth from edge to edge.
While it is safe to use disinfectant wipes on many devices, keep in mind that those containing alcohol, bleach or vinegar may wear down the protective coating on a smartphone's screen.
The iPhone 13 is water resistant with an IP68 rating, which means it can survive submersion in water for up to 30 minutes if the water is less than 6 meters (19.6 feet) deep. Damage to the iPhone, like dents, bends, or cracks may compromise its water resistance rating.
Use a screen protector
By using a screen protector, you will not only prevent against scratches, but can then use normal hand sanitiser spread thinly onto a microfiber cloth to clean your screen and the rest of your smartphone quickly and without damaging it.
Don't spray liquids directly on your phone – Splash-proof, waterproof or neither, smartphones still have seams, ports and speakers where forceful sprays of moisture can wreak expensive havoc. When cleaning with liquids, spray onto a cloth first.
Hand sanitizers typically contain a high concentration of alcohol, often ranging from 60% to 95% alcohol content. While the alcohol in hand sanitizers is effective at killing germs and bacteria, it can also be quite harsh and damaging to the delicate materials and coatings used in modern smartphone construction.
You might be surprised by how often experts suggest cleaning your phone! "Dirt, oil or germs from hands can mark up cell phones," Ek explains. "Wipe the screen at least daily with a microfiber cloth." Also, your phone case can trap dirt and grime along the edges.
At most, experts said you can use a solution of 1 part distilled vinegar to 5 of 6 parts water. Or, many experts say, never use rubbing alcohol. And never hand sanitizing gel, which tech experts say can damage your devices.
Can I clean my glasses with hand sanitiser? We also wouldn't recommend using a hand sanitiser to clean your glasses. Many hand sanitisers are alcohol-based, which could damage the specialist coatings and materials on your lenses that help you see clearer.
To prevent liquid damage, avoid: Swimming or bathing with your iPhone.
Quick Look at the iPhone 13
Fast forward to 2024, and it's still holding its own, proving to be a solid choice, especially if you're eyeing the refurbished market.
The iPhone 15 is not waterproof, neither are the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max. However, these iPhone 15 models are water resistant. In fact, iPhone 15, iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 models are all certified with an IP68 rating, meaning they have passed testing at a maximum depth of six meters for up to 30 minutes.
Using sanitiser on mobile phones tampers with the phone's display, speaker, camera and microphone. The glue used on the display might be removed because of this and may cause damage to the display.
Do use disinfectant wipes with 70% isopropyl alcohol or a similar disinfecting spray, spritzed onto a clean microfiber cloth. Do spray any cleaners onto a soft cloth, not directly onto your phone. Do wring out the wipe or cloth before using if it's too wet.
Even though pre-moistened baby wipes seem convenient, they're really not a good idea. This is how we suggest you clean your phone: Make sure your phone is turned off and to disconnect it from any external power sources. This will make it easier to see the dirt on your screen and reduce the risk of a short circuit.
Using a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe, 75 percent ethyl alcohol wipe, or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, you may gently wipe the exterior surfaces of your iPhone. Don't use products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Avoid getting moisture in any openings, and don't submerge your iPhone in any cleaning agents.