Did you know that your cellphone is 10 times dirtier than a toilet seat? The same goes for tablets; they can easily be contaminated by germs.

Take iPads, for example, it’s not uncommon for them to be covered in bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, which is a common source of staph infections.

Fortunately, they’re easy to clean and sanitize.

Did you recently get one? Looking for tips on cleaning iPads? If so, you’re at the right place.

We’ll be going over how to clean iPads in detail below. Keep reading to learn more!

How to Clean Your iPads?

1. Cleaning iPad Screens

Use a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth (e.g. microfiber cloth) to wipe the screen. Disinfectant wipes can also be used. Avoid towels, paper towels, and abrasive cloths; they can scratch and damage the display.

Don’t use household cleaners, window cleaners, aerosol sprays, or hydrogen peroxide. These products can diminish the fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating on the screen and scratch the display.

And remember, always be gentle when you’re wiping your iPad. You never know whether or not there’s dirt on the surface and even the tiniest piece can cause scratches if you push too hard.

2. Cleaning the Speakers and Microphone

The built-in speakers and microphone can collect dust, lint, and other debris over time. The best way to remove them is with a soft bristle toothbrush (we recommend using a kids’ toothbrush as they’re softer and easier to maneuver).

Start by dipping the tip of the toothbrush in rubbing alcohol. From there, use the brush to clean the holes. Make sure not to use water; it can damage the internal parts as it takes longer to evaporate.

Alternatively, you can use sticky tack. Tear a small part, roll it, and apply it to the holes—it’ll stick to the surface and pull out any dirt or dust.

Avoid using toothpicks. They’re small and sharp and can easily damage the speakers or microphone if you push them too far in.

3. Cleaning Your iPad Accessories

You can clean silicone and polyurethane cases with a few drops of dish soap. Add them to the inside of the case and gently wipe the microfiber interior with a wet sponge. Do the same with the outside.

Rinse the sponge and continue to wipe the interior until all of the soap is gone. Set the case aside and let it air dry.

Other accessories such as keyboards, mounting systems (e.g. this iPad 11 wall mount) can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners such as hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, or bleach.

Cleaning iPads the Right Way

And there you have it—three tips on cleaning iPads. If anything, the most important thing is to use the right tools. The last thing that you want is to accidentally damage the device!

For more content like this, be sure to check out the rest of our technology section!