How to safely clean and disinfect your electronic devices

In our daily lives, we touch our phones, computers, tablets, and TV remotes dozens of times, often with dirty hands or after being outside. Although we don't always realize it, electronic devices can accumulate more germs than some bathroom surfaces .

Therefore, it's important to keep them clean and disinfected regularly, but always carefully, as they are delicate appliances. Here's how to do it step by step and safely .

1. How often should they be cleaned?

The ideal is to do a superficial cleaning daily (especially of your mobile phone) and a deeper disinfection once or twice a week , depending on how you use it and the environments you move around in.

2. What NOT to do when cleaning electronic devices

Before you begin, there are some key precautions:

• Do not use abrasive products such as bleach, ammonia, or all-purpose cleaners.

• Do not spray liquids directly onto the screen or device.

• Do not use very wet wipes that can leak through cracks or ports.

• Do not use high-pressure compressed air on mobile phones or laptops, as this can damage internal components.

3. What materials do you need?

Have on hand:

• Soft microfiber cloths (clean and dry).

• Cotton swabs (optional).

• 70% isopropyl alcohol or electronics-specific wipes.

• Distilled water (if you need to reduce the alcohol).

• A small sprayer (optional).

4. How to clean each type of device

✅ Mobile phone

1. Turn it off and disconnect it from the charger.

2. Wipe with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.

3. Lightly dampen one end of the cloth with isopropyl alcohol (or a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

4. Gently wipe the screen and case, without applying pressure.

5. Use a dry swab to clean around the charging port and buttons.

✅ AirPods and headphones

1. Do not wet them directly or immerse them in any liquid.

2. Use a dry microfiber cloth to clean the exterior.

3. If there is stuck-on dirt, you can slightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol (always avoiding the grille or speaker areas).

4. Use a dry cotton swab or a soft brush (such as an eyebrow brush or a new toothbrush) to remove dust or earwax from the vents, without pressing.

5. Also clean the charging case inside and out with a slightly damp cloth.

6. Never use sharp objects to scratch or attempt to disassemble them.

✅ Laptop

1. Turn off the equipment and unplug it.

2. Clean the case and screen with a dry microfiber cloth .

3. To disinfect the screen, moisten the cloth with alcohol and wipe it very gently.

4. On the keyboard, you can use a dry cotton swab or a small paintbrush to remove dust between the keys.

5. To clean the keys, use a cloth slightly moistened with alcohol, being careful not to drip.

✅ Tablet, remote control and others

• Tablets: just like mobile phones. Be careful with the edges and the charging port.

• Remote controls: Remove the batteries before cleaning. Use an alcohol wipe for the surface and a cotton swab for the gaps between the buttons.

• Headphones and earbuds: Clean the outside with a microfiber cloth and alcohol. For in-ear headphones, check if the ear cushions can be removed for cleaning separately.

✅ Video game consoles and controllers (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch)

1. Turn off the console and unplug it from the power supply.

2. Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove surface dust.

3. Using a cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol, clean the surfaces of the controller, buttons, joysticks, and console casing.

4. Use a cotton swab to clean in the grooves and around the buttons without pressing too hard.

5. If you use cases or stands, don't forget to clean them too.

5. Can I use disinfectant wipes?

Yes, but make sure they're designed for electronics or are isopropyl alcohol-based. They should be damp, not wet . Avoid those that contain bleach or perfumed products.

6. Final tips

• Do not use paper napkins or tissues , as they can scratch the screens.

• Wash your hands before and after cleaning your devices.

• Avoid eating on the keyboard or with your phone in your hand to reduce dirt buildup.

• Store your devices in protective cases or covers , which should also be cleaned regularly.

At La Corberana, we work with cleaning products designed for the home, but if you're looking for one specifically for electronics, make sure it's suitable and safe for screens.