14 Electronics You’re Not Cleaning That Are Covered in Bacteria

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In an era where we struggle to run our day without digital devices, starting from the moment we wake up till when we go back to sleep, it looks completely justified and normal. The more we repeatedly use these devices, the quicker they get dirt, and it accumulates on them very fast, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. And one that pervades, even though many neglect to clean them regularly for hygiene and functionality reasons.

Common electronics, such as smartphones and remotes, are frequently touched by our hands, mouths, and other surfaces, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to form. These germs can cause health problems, especially when multiple people share the devices. Here are 14 of the dirtiest tech devices in your home that you always forget to clean and tips that will help you do it right.

Smartphones

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We always hold our smartphones in our hands, and they see many surfaces during the day. Many constantly handle these soiled surfaces, and as such, they become sources of bacteria and germs. Daily cleaning with a microfiber and sanitizer wipes on your smartphone can also help shield you from germs.

Laptops

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Laptops (especially if we use them for work, gaming, or just for clicking around) gather dust and bacteria with the constant touch of the keyboard and screen. Your laptop must be cleaned regularly, including wiping your keyboard and touchpad.

Keyboards

Keyboards are dishes for bacteria—anything that might be on your hands is now just another form of life, living in the shrubbery between your keys. To clean, turn your keyboard over, shake out any debris, and then use a disinfecting wipe to give the keys a good once-over.

Mouse

Mouse often touched but seldom cleaned. They can carry germs from your hands. Clean the surface regularly with a disinfecting wipe or cloth lightly dampened with alcohol.

Remote Controls

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Many people touch these in homes, and they are usually overlooked during cleaning. Use a disinfectant wipe to clean them off every so often to kill the bacteria and keep things sanitary.

Earbuds

Ears are nasty, gross, and disgusting. Earbuds sit inside ears all day long, just waiting to soak up the liquid. Keep them clean by wiping down a lint-free cloth or cotton swab with rubbing alcohol.

Tablets

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Since many people touch tablets like smartphones, they can pass germs to other users. Wiping down your tablet’s screen and case occasionally with the proper clothes and solutions might also reduce the bacteria building up.

Game Controllers

After some serious gaming sessions, the controller might get a bit dirty and greasy. With each use, wipe the buttons and grips down with disinfectant to keep them clean for everyone.

E-Readers

Since you handle it almost constantly, an e-reader can get dust and other bacteria on its face, which needs to be cleaned. Invest in a microfiber cloth to give it a quick clean now and then, and use mild cleaning solutions to keep it looking good.

Smartwatches

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Of course, because these are wearables, they will absorb sweat and bacteria. Smartwatches and fitness trackers are waterproof, but key parts of the watch—such as the band and screen—can collect dust, sweat, stains, or other dirt over time. Wipe them with a dry, soft cloth or clean them with disinfectant, which should be added to your daily routine to keep them “aesthetically brand-new” even after long-term use.

Headphones

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Headphones can become a hotbed for surface dirt and bacterial buildup, mainly if multiple people use the same pair. After extended use, lightly wipe down the cushions and headband with a disinfecting wipe.

TVs and Monitors

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TVs & Monitors—Dust (last handled less frequently but still important because it eventually accumulates on your screen and shared surfaces). To keep the display clean, dust and wipe it with microfiber fabrics.

Home Assistants

Items like smart speakers are commonly used in regular contact with different elements. Occasionally clean dust and germs to accumulate using a soft, dry cloth or recommended cleaning wipes

Cameras

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Fingerprint smears and bacteria buildup are often present where camera bodies are touched, but the same reality applies to lenses. Just make sure you use the correct type of wipes and clothes so they will remain clean and hygienic!