Technical devices as bacteria traps

According to a study by the University of Arizona, there are 400 times more bacteria on a keyboard than on a toilet - that's quite something! It doesn't look much better on the touchscreen of a smartphone. But what does this have to do with infections? Quite simply, because we constantly run our hands over our faces and sometimes put our fingers in our mouths, the bacteria can make us ill - especially in times of coronavirus, but also at peak flu times, you should be particularly vigilant in this regard. Because we often make these movements unconsciously, it can help to put on gloves. This simply makes us more attentive.

But how do bacteria get onto the keyboard? On the one hand, we contaminate the keyboard and touchscreen with our own body's bacteria, for example by blowing our nose or eating something while working and then touching the devices again. Secondly, through things and objects that we touch outside, such as the rods on the bus or train - always with our smartphone in hand, of course. As you can see: The contamination possibilities are numerous - and can now also be risky!

Clean your computer keyboard and smartphone properly

Computer
1. always: first switch off the computer and disconnect it from the mains.
2. turn the keyboard over so that the dirt falls out
3. clean the spaces between the keyboard with disinfectant, rubbing alcohol or another cleaning agent, preferably using a cotton bud (only slightly damp)
4. then wipe the keyboard completely with a damp cloth, preferably with a cleaning agent.

Smartphone
1. always switch off the smartphone.
2. wipe the display completely with a lint-free cloth dampened in warm soapy water. You can also use other cleaning agents or disinfectants here. Damp cloths also work.
3. never immerse the smartphone in liquid - just wipe it off!

Alternative: There are also so-called cell phone sterilizers that work with UV light. For example, these devices:
UV phone sterilizer from Horcol for approx. 40.80 euros
UV sterilizer from Goopek for approx. 39.30 euros
More devices on this topic

Also interesting articles for more hygiene in the home:
Cleaning surfaces properly
8 steps to a clean home
The 1x1 of cleaning helpers

Date: 16.04.2020
Author: Tanja Seiffert