Phone sanitizer machines have been touted as a solution to keep your smartphone clean, but do they really work? According to a study published by a reputable source, these devices use ultrvaiolet light to kill bacteria and viruses on your phone's surface, a method used in hospitals to sanitize tools and surfaces.

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While reputable phone sanitizer machines do work, there are other considerations that make them not worth the cost for most people. for a UV phone sanitizer to actually work, it needs to emit light with certain wavelengths. UV-C light ranges from 100-280 nanometers, but 200-280 nm is what eliminates germs by damaging their DNA and RNA.

Boxes are also far superior to wands, as containing the UV light makes the process safer and more effective. However, it's essential to remember that UV light can harm the skin and eyes. Wands and cheaply made boxes can be dangerous, but the worthwhile ones are pricey.

A familiar pattern from the 2019 crash

Popular options like PhoneSoap, Deep Purple, and Cleanstation work well. However,it's hard to recommend spending that much on one when there are equally effective and far more affordable alternatives.

You don't need additional equipment to sanitize your phone when you probably have cleaning supplies in your home right now that will work just as well. A study published found that UV phone sanitizers and disinfectant wipes with 70% isopropyl alcohol are both effective,with researchers concluding the difference wasn't statistically significant.

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Phone manufacturers like Samsung, Google, and Apple also suggest 75% ethyl alcohol wipes or even common household ones like Clorox disinfecting wipes. Before you get started, turn your phone off and keep it unplugged while you clean it as a precaution.

You should also wipe your device with a microfiber cloth before disinfecting it to remove fingerprints. Water and some mild soap can help,but make sure to use a lint-free cloth that is damp, and take care to not get liquid in any openings.

A couple of things to avoid

There are a couple of things to avoid when disinfecting your phone. never apply water or any other liquid directly to your device, especially the screen. Harsh cleaners like bleach,hand sanitizer, vinegar, and kitchen disinfectants can damage your phone, as can rough cloths like paper towels.

Finally, don't use compressed air on your smartphone, particularly in its ports.