Florida scientists have made a startling discovery about smartwatches – they can be breeding grounds for bacterial infections. These microbes have the potential to cause serious diseases like urinary tract infections and blood-related infections. In fact, according to Professor Nigel McMillan, smartwatches can be 30 times dirtier than a toilet seat. This highlights the importance of keeping your smartwatch clean to avoid falling ill. Many people rely on smartwatches to motivate themselves to exercise, while athletes and fitness enthusiasts use them to track their progress. However, it’s crucial to ensure your smartwatch is always sanitized to maintain your health.
Thankfully, you can quickly disinfect your smartwatch using common household items. Let’s discuss the proper way to disinfect your smart tracker based on its materials. I’ll also share the findings of US-based scientists regarding the cleanliness of smartwatches.
To clean your smartwatch effectively, the scientists tested three household products: Lysol Disinfectant Spray, 70% Ethanol, and apple cider vinegar. They discovered that Lysol and Ethanol only needed 30 seconds to significantly reduce the bacteria count, while vinegar took two minutes to achieve similar results. You can follow these tips or refer to your smartwatch brand’s recommendations. For example, Apple suggests cleaning the Apple Watch with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes, 75% ethyl alcohol wipes, or Clorox disinfectant wipes, depending on the type of band.
To thoroughly clean your smartwatch, start by disassembling the face from the straps. Then, clean the screen using the following steps:
1. Wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth.
2. If your smartwatch is waterproof, you can moisten the cloth with a lukewarm mixture of water and a tiny amount of soap.
3. If the screen is still not clean, dampen the cloth with a mixture of white vinegar and water.
Remember to be gentle while rubbing the screen to avoid scratching it.
Next, clean the straps using different tools and cleaning agents based on the material:
– For leather straps, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to maintain their finish.
– For silicone straps, dilute liquid soap in water and use the mixture to clean them.
– For metal straps, a few drops of dishwashing soap should do the trick, or you can use a jewelry cleaning solution for gold straps.
Finally, make sure to clean every nook and cranny of your smartwatch. Use a Q-tip or cotton swab for hard-to-reach areas, and a toothpick to remove grime from tiny spots.
The scientists at Florida Atlantic University conducted a study to determine the sanitary condition of smartwatches. They analyzed smartwatch bands made of rubber, fabrics, leather, plastic, and metal, worn by individuals in different professions such as firefighters, veterinary technicians, drivers, and desk workers. Their research revealed that nearly 95% of smartwatch straps harbor various types of bacteria. Rubber and plastic straps were found to be the most contaminated, while gold and silver metal straps had the fewest microbes. Additionally, a person’s profession significantly impacted the level of pathogens present on their smartwatches. For example, veterinary experts and gymgoers had the highest concentration of different pathogens on their straps. Surprisingly, antibacterial bands can actually increase the types of bacteria on a smartwatch, as they train resident and transient bacteria to develop resistance to drugs and antibiotics.
The Florida researchers identified some of the most common pathogens found on smartwatches, including Pseudomonads, Enterobacteriaceae, and Staphylococci. Staphylococci, in particular, can lead to blood-related infections that result in significant medical expenses. Another troublesome bacterium is S.aureus or Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause blood clots, infective endocarditis, and fatal organ failure. Pseudomonas aeuginosa, found in rubber and plastic straps, is responsible for urinary tract infections. Lastly, Enterobacteria or Escherichia Coli, which causes fecal-oral infections, was also detected.
The scientists concluded that metallic straps are the most sanitary option due to their ability to inhibit the enzymes on the membranes of bacteria, resulting in bacteria death over time. Although they may be more expensive, they provide a safer choice.
In conclusion, it’s essential to keep your smartwatch clean as they can harbor bacteria that can lead to severe diseases. Use the cleaning tips mentioned above or follow your manufacturer’s recommendations. Remember to handle your devices with care to avoid damaging them. By maintaining a clean smartwatch, you can enjoy the latest features and stay on top of your digital game.
Frequently Asked Questions about cleaning smartwatches:
1. How often should I clean my smartwatch?
The frequency of cleaning your smartwatch depends on your activities. If you engage in physical activities regularly while wearing your smartwatch, it’s best to clean it daily. However, if you spend most of your time indoors, a weekly cleaning should suffice. Additionally, it’s important to wipe away stains immediately to prevent bacterial growth.
2. What happens if I don’t clean my smartwatch?
Failure to clean your smartwatch regularly can result in a more worn-out appearance. Stains and bacteria can deteriorate the colors and create grime and odors. Furthermore, the growth of harmful pathogens can pose serious health risks. According to Professor Nigel McMillan, smartwatches can become 30 times dirtier than toilet seats if left unchecked.
3. Can I use antibacterial straps instead?
While antibacterial straps can prevent short-term bacterial growth, lengthy exposure may cause bacteria to adapt to the material, potentially leading to health issues. If you choose to use antibacterial straps, it’s crucial to clean them regularly. Refer to the cleaning tips mentioned earlier or consult your brand’s recommendations for proper care.
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