When you look around at travelers across the globe, one thing is clear: electronics are a constant companion. With smartphones becoming more widespread and mobile networks expanding globally, it’s rare to see someone leave home without their phone. Many also carry a secondary device, like a laptop or tablet.
However, places like airports, public transportation, and other high-traffic areas are not just busy—they’re breeding grounds for germs. Think about all the surfaces that people touch regularly: self-check-in kiosks, handrails, elevator buttons, and security bins. Airplanes and rental cars are actually germ hotspots. With more people traveling than ever before and no standardized cleaning protocols in place, it’s almost inevitable that your electronics will come into contact with pathogens.
The good news is that keeping those germs at bay doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. All you need is a simple combination of two items: alcohol wipes and a microfiber cloth. These are easy to pack, take up little space, and don’t add much weight to your luggage. In fact, many major electronics manufacturers recommend this very combo. Start by turning off your device and unplugging it from any power source. Remove any external case and clean the device thoroughly with an alcohol wipe. Be careful when cleaning delicate areas, such as speakers. Once done, use the microfiber cloth to dry the surface and remove any residue. The soft texture of the microfiber cloth protects fragile surfaces and prevents streaking. Repeat this process for any cases or accessories before putting them back on your device.
Multifunctional and Multiple Options
Alcohol wipes can do more than just clean your devices. Use them to sanitize other surfaces you might encounter during travel, like tray tables, seatback pockets, and armrests. These areas often get minimal cleaning between flights, especially on routes with quick turnarounds, making them prime germ hotspots. You can also use the wipes for extra hand sanitizing after using the airplane’s restroom.
If you’re staying in a hotel, consider using alcohol wipes on the dirtiest surfaces in your room, such as hotel phones and remote controls. Even high-end hotels may not always clean these areas thoroughly, leaving behind germs that you wouldn’t want to touch. Visible cleanliness doesn’t always mean a surface is safe—many places skip proper cleaning due to time constraints.
Looking for an extra layer of protection? You can now find antimicrobial glass screen protectors for various devices. These are designed to shield your phone’s screen from germs that come into contact with your hands and face. Another option is a UV sanitizing box, which is compact enough for travel and some models even allow you to charge your device while it’s being cleaned.
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