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Best Smartphone Sanitizer Reviews

Updated on April 5, 2021 by Joseph D. Nielson

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Chances are, you don’t even realize half off the dirt and bacteria that builds up on your phone. In fact, studies have even shown that your phone is dirtier than your toilet!

You should be cleaning your phone like you clean your carpets. With the help of a cell phone sanitizer like a smartphone sanitizer, you can keep your phone clean (and charged). Regardless of what phone you have, you should be able to find a smartphone sanitizer to keep your phone clean and hygienic. 


That said, there are various smartphone models, sizes, and makes out there. To find the best smartphone sanitizer, it’s important to find one that suits your phone perfectly. Our list of smartphone sanitizer reviews will help you to identify the best models on the market so that you can make an educated choice on the right model for your phone cleaning needs.

Product Image
Product Name
Wavelength
Compatible Smartphones
Bacteria Removal
Latest Price
product image of PhoneSoap 3 UV Cell Phone Sanitizer and Dual Universal Cell Phone Charger Icon

N/A

Almost any phone

Kills 99.99 percent of germs

product image of OTTOLIVES UV Smart Phone Sanitizer, Portable UV Lights Cell Phone Sanitizer

N/A

Fits all phones under 6.9 inches

Kills 99.99 percent of germs

product image of HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer, Grey

N/A

Fits all phones

Kills up to 99.9% of bacteria & viruses at DNA level

product image of Smart Phone Sanitizer Portable Christmas UV Lights Cell Phone Sanitizer Sterilizer Cleaner

253nm

  • Apple iPhone X,
  • iPhone 7s Plus,
  • Samsung Galaxy S 7
  • Apple iPhone 8 Plus
  • Google Pixel 2 XL
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 8)

Kills 99.9% of common bacteria (Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli & Salmonella)

product image of Cell Phone Sterilizer,UV Smartphone Sanitizer Cleaner Aromatherapy Function Disinfector

254 nm

  • iPhone/XS/XR/X/8/8Plus/7/7Plus/6S/6Plus/
  • iPod
  • Samsung Galaxy S10 S9 S8 Plus Note 9 8
  • Moto Z Z3,LG V50 G8
  • Google Nexus
  • LG
  • Motorola
  • Sony
  • HTC
  • Huawei etc
  • All cell phones up to 7.0-Inch

Kills 99.9% of bacteria

product image of Yasolote Phone Uv Sanitizer, Portable UV Light Cell Phone Sterilizer,

N/A

  • Cell phones and Smartphones up to 6 inches
  • Huawei P30 Pro,P30,P20 Pro,P20,P10 Plus,P10,Mate 20 Pro, Mate 20, Mate 20 X, 
  • iPhone X/XS/XR/XS Max/8/7/6/5S/SE
  • Samsung Galaxy S7
  • Note 5 and LG G3

Kills 99.9% of bacteria 

product image of Cell Phone Cleaner,Portable Smart Phone Cleaner

N/A

  • Up to 7 inch smartphones
  • Audiovox CDM8500
  • Samsung VGA1000
  • Samsung SCH 8500
  • Motorola T2297
  • Motorola TIMEPORT P7382I

Kills 99.9% of harmful dirt and germs

product image of HoMedics UV-Clean Phone Sanitizer

N/A

Variety of phone sizes + larger models like Google Pixel 3

Kills up to 99.9% of bacteria & viruses at the DNA level

product image of UV Cell Phone Sanitizer, Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Mobile Phone Sterilizer Cleaner

253.7 nm

  • iPhone
  • Samsung
  • Android phones

Removes 99.99% of bacteria in 5 min

The Top 10 Best Cell Phone Sanitizer Reviews

Main Features:

  • UV cellphone cleaner
  • 2-in-1 cleaning and aromatherapy
  • 10W Quick Wireless Charging
  • Light protection mode

Overview: PhoneSoap 3 UV Smartphone Sanitizer & Universal Charger is a cell phone cleaner, sanitizer, and charger. This multi-use smartphone sanitizer boasts modern design, easy use, and tangle-free cords. 

Can be Used For: One of the best things about this cell-phone cleaner is that it can be used to sanitize or charge just about any phone or smartphone model. 

Diagram of PhoneSoap 3 UV Smartphone Sanitizer & Universal Charger

 

How it Works: This smartphone sanitizer uses UV rays to effectively (and safely) kill 99.99 per cent of the germs and bacteria that build up on your phone. That’s a lot of bacteria that would have been on your phone — if it wasn’t for this cleaner’s advanced UV technology. 

The PhoneSoap 3 UV Smartphone Sanitizer & Universal Charger uses two UVS lights and reflective paint to effectively secure and sanitize your phone while it’s charging. All you have to do to get the process started is put your cellphone into the machine, close the lid, and the UV lights will automatically start a 10 minute cycle. You will notice a blue lightning bolt this means that the sanitizing machine is in the process of cleaning your phone. Once the light turns off, that signifies the job’s done, but don’t worry. The lights will turn off automatically after the cycle so that you can let your phone continue to charge if need be.

Diagram of PhoneSoap 3 UV Smartphone Sanitizer & Universal Charger Features

What Makes it Stand Out: While this model stands out for being a multi-purpose smartphone sanitizer, what really sets it apart is its reputation. This is a top rated smartphone sanitizer that has been featured on both Shark Tank and Discovery Channel. If that’s not a stamp of approval, then what is? 

This model sets itself apart from others on the market not just by being multi-purpose, but by being able to multitask. It’s actually the first machine to disinfect and charge your phone at the same time! The system makes charging and cleaning your phone easy because you have to charge your phone anyways to use it, and you can clean it while its battery is charging up.

It takes no more time out of your day and can give you peace of mind about the one object that comes in contact with your face everyday. 

Takeaways: This may be the most expensive model on the market, but it does what it promises and more in little time and with little effort.

Pros
  • Automatic shut off
  • Large & compatible with most phones
  • Sanitizes & charges at the same time
  • Sleek compact design
Cons
  • Most expensive model on the market

Main Features: 

  • Charger & sanitizer has an improved design
  • UV-C light scientifically proven to banish bacteria
  • Safely kills 99.99 percent 
  • Fits and charges almost any phone
  • As seen on shark tank and discovery channel

Overview: The OTTOLIVES UV Smartphone Sanitizer is one of the easiest to use smart phone sanitizers available. It is a multi use model with aromatherapy and charging capabilities. 

Can be Used For: Cleaning & sanitizing small cell phones, jewelry, watches, credit cards, and keys, while also charging smartphones

How it Works: The beauty of a cell phone sanitizer is its ease of use. This model in particular makes sanitizing your phone so easy that it’s more work to ignore the bacteria building up on your phone. All  you have to do is put your mobile phone (or small object) in the smartphone sanitizer, turn on the machine, and let the unit do its job for anywhere between 18-30 minutes depending on what you need. This is longer than most cleaning cycles, but the result is well worth the wait.

The great thing about this particular model is that, to protect the user’s eyes, the light turns off when the box is opened over 30 degrees.

While you clean your cell phone, you can also enjoy the relaxing sensation of aromatherapy as, while the sanitizer cleans your objects, you can also pour essential oils into the inlet. Turn the feature on and enjoy the benefits of the built in aroma humidifier. Yes, you can do both at the same time!

image of The OTTOLIVES UV Smartphone Sanitizer Diagram of Features and Parts

What Makes it Standout: The OTTOLIVES UV Smartphone Sanitizer is unique in that it doesn’t use any chemicals, liquids, or heat for cleaning your cell phone. It is also fairly universal as it can fit just about any cell phone or small object. There are some models that can withstand cleaning for bigger objects, but what this model can clean, it cleans well. If you have smaller devices to clean, then this will be more than ideal for you. 

It is also worth mentioning that this smartphone cleaner does more than just clean and sanitize cell phones as it boasts an aromatherapy function as well to keep your devices and space smelling fresh. This is a 2-in-1 cleaner that offers cleaning and aromatherapy, and at the same time to boot!

Takeaways: This smartphone sanitizer is so much more than a cell phone cleaner as it is also a charger and boasts aromatherapy capabilities. It’s incredibly easy to use and universal for all phones and most small objects. Families with various needs for this system will love its multi-purpose and ease of use.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Portable & compact
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Longer cleaning cycle

Main Features: 

  • UV-CLEAN LED technology
  • Interchangeable phone and platform clips
  • 4 UV-C Germicidal LED
  • 18 cycles per charge
  • Rechargeable LEDs
  • HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer Bag

Overview: The HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer is a multi-use portable smartphone sanitizer that cleans up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. It is free of chemicals like mercury and is safe for use.

Can be Used For: Can be used to clean phones,  keys, jewelry, eyeglasses, remote controls, and other large items.

How it Works: To use this smartphone sanitizer, put everything and anything that fits into the bag in, and let the sanitizer do its thing. it’s that easy. Put your items into the bag, and secure them using the system’s interchangeable clips. 

This will ensure that your items are adequately exposed to the UV-LED light for thorough and even cleaning. The system boasts 4 UV-CLEDs to sanitize your items and utilizes 18 sanitation cycles per charge.ogy will clean any microorganisms on your phone. This will disrupt their DNA so that they can’t produce any further bacteria. Once you start the cycle, the machine will offer aromatherapy functions while also charging your phone.

picture of bacteria on phone and HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer

What Makes it Stand Out: Unlike other cell phone sanitizers, the HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer fits a wide range of items large and small. It is actually specifically designed to fit larger items, which sets it apart from other models that typically have smaller capacities. Not only is this model designed for larger items, but it also cleans these items 10 times faster than other systems. 


Takeaways: This is a thorough smartphone sanitizer that is designed to clean just about anything that can fit into the box. Families and professionals alike will love this machine that is most ideal for those who have not just phones, but various large items that they want to sanitize on a regular basis

Pros
  • Kills 99.9% of common bacteria 
  • Multi-purpose
  • Fits larger items
Cons
  • Needs frequent charging and runs 2-4 cycles per charge
  • No indication of light on inside

Main Features

  • Kills 99.99% of The Bacteria 
  • HMLIGHT UV sanitizer
  • Aromatherapy essential oil
  • Charger cable
  • Portable ultraviolet disinfector: 7.83*4.1*1.1 inches
  • Disinfection button
  • Ultraviolet lamp

Overview: The Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Christmas UV Lights Cell Phone Sanitizer from HMLIGHT is a cell phone disinfector for all iPhone and android models, as well as other household items that may need sanitizing. It gets the job done thoroughly and boasts functions to help you better monitor the disinfection process. 

Can be Used For: The system can be used to disinfect items that fit into its box which spans 7.83*4.1*1.1 inches (199*105*30MM). It is compatible with most mobile phones, including the Apple iPhone X, iPhone 7s Plus, Samsung Galaxy S 7, Apple iPhone 8 Plus, Google Pixel 2 XL, or Samsung Galaxy Note. It can also be used to clean additional small items such as iPods, MP3 players, Bluetooth headsets, toothbrushes, toys, glasses, and keys

Steps 1 & 2 of how Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Christmas UV Lights Cell Phone Sanitizer works
Steps 3 & 4 of how Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Christmas UV Lights Cell Phone Sanitizer works

How it Works: To start this cell phone sterilizer, put in the items you want to clean and press the disinfection button. Once you start the cycle, you will see the ultraviolet lamp light up. The buzzer will go off once, and the disinfection process will start. The great thing about this particular model is how it notifies the user of the beginning and end of the cycle. The disinfection process is complete after 5 minutes, but you can hit the button again to pause the process at any time.

Image of Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Christmas UV Lights Cell Phone Sanitizer parts

What Makes it Stand Out: The sanitizer boasts 99.9% safety sterilization and a UV light wavelength of 253nm , which means that it can clean those harder to reach crevices that you couldn’t clean manually. 

To protect users’ eyes from the UV light, the light will automatically close when the box is opened over 30 degrees. HMLIGHT, the manufacturer of this product, asks that users refrain from opening the box while the disinfection is in process. 

Takeaways: This is a thorough smartphone sanitizer that can clean just about anything. The model is ideal for those who are looking to sanitize not only their cell phone, but other gadgets like headphones and keys that are used on the daily. This is a user friendly system with more functions than others. After all, unlike other systems, it does allow you to pause the cycle if needed. Families will love that this system is also safe for kids. 

Pros
  • Can pause cycle
  • Automatic light shut off 
  • Cleans in crevices 
  • Kills Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella 
  • Can be used safely by kids
Cons
  • Does not fit larger items

Main Features:

  • Aromatherapy mode
  • Charges phone
  • UV-C sterilizer
  • Essential oil diffuser

Overview: The UV Smartphone Sanitizer,Portable Cell Phone Sterilizer from SOELAND is a multi-use sterilizer that can be used to clean mobile phones and other small devices and items.

Can be Used For: This cell phone sanitizer can be used to disinfect iOS and  Android mobile phones, toothbrushes, jewelry, watches, and other alike items that fit in the system.

Product image of The UV Smartphone Sanitizer,Portable Cell Phone Sterilizer from SOELAND UV light function

How it Works: This device is incredibly straightforward to use as all you have to do is plug it in, put in the items you want to sterilize, and then hit the power button to start the cleaning process. Users will know that the system is working because the button light will show green. Once the button shines red, you will know that your things are done being cleaned.

The UV Smartphone Sanitizer,Portable Cell Phone Sterilizer 360 light disinfection diagram

What Makes it Stand Out: What sets this cell phone cleaner from other sanitizers on the market is its patented 360 degrees light disinfection design that helps to ensure that the system disinfects all sides of the phone. When a phone sits flat, its bottom is side not exposed to the UV ray light. This is why the manufacturer has established this 360 degree design to ensure that the light can hit every side of your device for thorough cleaning. 


Takeaways:  This is one of the most versatile sanitizers as in addition to disinfecting your items, providing aromatherapy , and charging your phone, it can withstand much larger items than other models on the market ranging from keys to socks.

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Portable & easy to carry
  • Fits large items
  • Buttons indicate beginning and end of cleaning process
  • Aromatherapy features
  • Unique patented design
  • Charges phone
Cons
  • Other Amazon reviewers have claimed it can be challenging to confirm UV light is on and will have to peek inside

Main Features: 

  • Kills 99.99% of bacteria With UV Light in 5 minutes
  • Aromatherapy function
  • germicidal ultraviolet technology
  • Made of ABS + PMMA
  • Size: 23×13×4 CM
  • Weight:600g
  • 1 X UV Phone Sterilizer Box
  • 1 X Cleaning Cloth
  • 1 X User Manual
  • 1 X External USB cable

How it Works:  This multi-purpose smartphone sanitizer works as a cell phone cleaner, disinfector, and aroma humidifier. The system uses a 254nm UV light wavelength to absorb any organisms or bacteria sitting on your phone or other items to kill the DNA of the germs  this really gets to the root of the problem. 

To use the aromatherapy function, all you have to do is put an essential oil of your choice into the machine’s aromatherapy inlet. This can provide a spa-like ambiance  just be sure not to put any more than 6 drops. With a press of the aromatherapy switch, you can turn your disinfector into an aroma humidifier. This humidifier will stop after 8 minutes leaving your device not just came to the touch, but smelling clean too.

Product image of Cell Phone Sterilizer,UV Smartphone Sanitizer Cleaner Aromatherapy Function Disinfector parts

What Makes it Stand Out: This cell phone disinfector is more than just a smartphone sanitizer as it can be used for professional cleaning use. It is compatible with rings, watches, dentures, baby pacifiers, and other hygienic tools. It is a multipurpose system that gets the job done effectively, easily, and in no time at all. 

It is important to note, however, that users should avoid opening the system while it’s in process as the UV light will harm your eyes, and the model does not have an auto shut off function like others on our list of smartphone sanitizer reviews. 

Takeaways: This is a straightforward smartphone sanitizer that is easy to use for people with varying needs. The unit is definitely ideal for those with more varied cleaning needs who will love the ability to disinfect larger objects used on the daily. 

Pros
  • Effective for residential & professional use
  • Doubles as aroma humidifier 
  • Compact & portable
  • Quiet in use
Cons
  • Be careful not to exceed 6 drops of essential oil 
  • Avoid opening the cover as does not have UV light auto shut off

Main Features: 

  • Germicidal UV light
  • Removes 99% of germs and bacteria
  • Dual UV bulbs
  • Aromatherapy function
  • Usb charging supply power
  • Multi-function sterilizer x1
  • Micro USB charging cable x1
  • User manual x1
  • Wet Rag x1

Overview: The Yasolote Phone Uv Sanitizer doubles as a Portable UV Light Cell Phone Sterilizer and Aromatherapy Function Disinfector. It will not only disinfect your mobile phones and other small items, but it will leave them smelling fresh as well. 

Can be Used For: This cell phone sanitizers can disinfect cell phones and smartphones up to 6 inches. It is specifically compatible with the Huawei P30 Pro,P30,P20 Pro, P20, P10 Plus,P10,Mate 20 Pro, Mate 20, Mate 20 X, iPhone X/XS/XR/XS Max/8/7/6/5S/SE, Samsung Galaxy S7, Note 5 and LG G3. It can also be used to clean additional items like iPods,mp3 players, wireless Bluetooth Earphones, toothbrushes, watches, toys, pacifiers, eyeglasses, keys, and jewelry.

Picture of Yasolote Phone Uv Sanitizer, Portable UV Light Cell Phone Sterilizer features

How it Works: The Yasolote Phone Uv Sanitizer effectively cleans phones and other items with its double sterilization. It boasts strong UV and ozone sterilization that is able to kill 99.9% of bacteria. 

When you lift the top, the UV light will automatically turn off for your safety. 

What people typically struggle with when it comes to using cell phone sanitizers is they are unsure if the UV light is even on. With the Yasolate model, you can press the magnet on the button to identify if the UV light is on or not.

You can also use this model in an aromatherapy mode, and it will charge your phone at the same time. To use the aromatherapy function, all you have to do is put the essential oil of your choice on the aromatherapy inlet and then press the aromatherapy switch to start up the process.

What Makes it Stand Out: What sets this sanitizer apart from other models is its sleek and compact design. This is an incredibly portable model that makes it easy to take with you on the go. It is also incredibly convenient to have a function that can confirm that the uV light is on, and that your phone is getting cleaned. 

Takeaway: This gadget is efficient, easy to carry, and is a perfect gift for anyone who cares about hygiene. It’s incredibly simple to use and its portability means that you can use it just about anywhere.

Pros
  • Portable & easy to use
  • Compatible with most phones
  • Multipurpose
  • Aromatherapy & charging functions.
Cons
  • Lid must be completely shut to connect with magnet and start disinfecting process
  • Exterior scratches easily

Overview: The Jaydear HoMedics UV-Clean Phone Sanitizer makes it easy (and fast) to clean your cell phone. It is both a portable smartphone cleaner and aromatherapy disinfector that can be used for cleaning many devices, including all cell phones, toothbrushes and even salon tools. 

Can be Used For: This cell phone sanitizer can be used to disinfect mobile phones like the Audiovox CDM8500, Samsung VGA1000, Samsung SCH 8500, Motorola T2297, Motorola TIMEPORT P7382I. It can also clean household items like dentures, hearing aids, jewelry, forks, knives, keys, earphones, baby’s toys, and other small objects.

How it Works: With the Jaydear HoMedics UV-Clean cellphone sanitizer, you can clean your devices easily and in no time at all ( in 5 minutes specifically). All you have to do is connect the USB interface with a plug or laptop, input the devices you want sterilized, and let the machine do it’s thing. Within five minutes your device will be cleaned and the machine will turn off automatically. 

This system doesn’t use any liquid or chemical substances to clean your devices; it simply uses physical antivirus and environmental protection to keep your devices clean and help you avoid exposure to unnecessary bacteria.

image of Cell Phone Cleaner,Portable Smartphone Cleaner Aromatherapy Function Disinfector Phone Cleaner Box aromatherapy features and functions

What Makes it Stand Out: This model sets itself apart from others on the market because it is so much more than just a smartphone sanitizer. It can be used to clean a variety of tools including medical products to ensure proper sterilization. The cherry on top is that it also boasts aromatherapy capabilities and charges your phone while it’s being disinfected.

Takeway: This is a great multi-use smartphone disinfecting machine that can be used to clean many small tools. It may not have the capability for large items, but what it can fit, it cleans exceptionally well in order to keep your personal items sanitized and safe.

Pros
  • 6 months warranty
  • Easy to use
  • Portable for easy travel
  • Compatible with most mobile phones and small tools
  • Aromatherapy capabilities 
Cons
  • Not compatible with larger items

Overview: The HoMedics UV-Clean Phone Sanitizer is a cell phone disinfecting machine that kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses at the DNA level, and faster than any other UV sanitizer on the market! This is a top rated smartphone sanitizer and for good reason.

Can be Used For: Use the HoMedics UV-Clean Phone Sanitizer to clean average sizes mobile devices.

How it Works: This model uses a unique patented pop-up technology not available with any other mode on the market. It’s patented technology paired with its UV-C LED sanitizer allows the machine to effectively sanitize your mobile devices and other gadgets that fit into its compartment. In fact, it uses the same UV-C LED Technology that hospitals do to sterilize their materials.

This model utilizes 2 UV-C Germicidal LED’s at 70 cycles per charge and its LEDs are strategically positioned to surround your device and provide your phone with a deep sanitizing.

HoMedics UV-Clean Phone Sanitizer diagram

What Makes it Stand Out: The standout feature of this cell phone sanitizer is its unique compact design and patented pop up technology. It can be collapsed flat to  fit into your purse, backpage, gym bag or anything else you’re carrying for easy travelling. The sanitization process will take about one minute. 


Takeaways: This is a great smartphone sanitizer for people who are always on the go. It may be a smaller machine, but this is because it’s specially designed to be travel friendly. You can use this machine in airports, offices, transit, and more.

Pros

 

  • DIsinfects all sides of your phone due to strategic lighting position
  • Portable & easy to travel with
  • Patented technology not used by any other manufacturer
  • One of the fastest disinfecting machines on the market
  • Free of mercury and chemicals
Cons
  • Because of its compact make doesnt fit larger phones
  • Can’t see LEDs when they light up due to safety set up

Main Features:

  • UV Wavelength: 253.7 nm
  • Removes 99.99% of bacteria in 5 min
  • Touch screen function buttons
  • Built-in wireless charging 

Overview: The UV Cell Phone Sanitizer, Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Mobile Phone Sterilizer Cleaner from MAEXUS is one of the more technologically advanced models on the market with easy to use touch screen functions.

Can be Used For: This cell phone sanitizer is compatible with 6.5 inch mobile phones, glasses, keys, watches, toothbrushes, jewelry, and more.

How it Works: The reality is that, because of the power of the LED light, most UV cell phone sanitizing machines don’t show the LED light is on and that the cleaning process has started. When you try to open the machine, the light will typically turn off and make it hard to be able to tell if the cycle has started or not. This MAXUS model, however, lights up as the process starts. The model boasts a percentage area that lights up to indicate the progress of sterilization. 

To use this machine, all you have to do is open the cavity, place your phone inside, and then choose the desired function. This system utilizes various touch screen buttons for different functions for ease of use. 

These buttons include the aromatherapy feature, an on and off switch, and a disinfection button.  To utilize the aromatherapy function, you add 2-3 drops for 8 minutes for aromatherapy. Unfortunately, the aromatherapy and sterilization functions cannot be used at the same time. 

picture of UV Cell Phone Sanitizer, Smartphone Sanitizer Portable Mobile Phone Sterilizer Cleaner features

What Makes it Stand Out: The touch screen functions are a stand out feature of this smartphone sanitizer as it not only makes the system easy to use, but also makes it sleek and aesthetic. The modern design of this system really sets it apart from other items on the market. Additionally, this system boasts voice notifications when the cleaning process is done, unlike others available. 


Takeway: This model is ideal for the technologically savvy who like smart capabilities such as the progress percentage being displayed, as well as the overall sleek function of the touch screen buttons.

Pros
  • Smart capabilities
  • Easy to use touch screen functions
  • Charges and cleans at the same time
  • Aromatherapy capabilities
  • Showcases progress of cleaning
Cons
  •  Aromatherapy and sterilization functions can’t be used at the same time 

Smartphone Sanitizer Buying Guide

picture of man working and turning on smart phone sanitizer

Why You Need a Cell Phone Sanitizer

You should be cleaning your phone like you clean your carpets. LIke you clean your carpet with a carpet vacuum, you can keep your phone clean (and charged) with a smartphone sanitizer. 

The reality is that your phone is actually 10 times dirtier than your toilet seat [1]. Your phone is exposed to so much dirt and bacteria as you lay it on tables and stands across the day, drop it and pick it up on public transit, and pass it over to show something to a friend.

The thing is, you just can’t see half of the bacteria on your phone, and then you touch your face after using it or, even, put your phone to your face.  You need a smartphone sanitizer to rid your cell phone of this unseen — but harmful — dirt and bacteria. The best part? A lot of these cell phone sanitizers boast features such as aromatherapy, charging abilities and capabilities to clean other household items. 

To find the best smartphone sanitizer for you, it’s important to know the bacteria you are fighting against, the real reasons why you need to be cleaning your phone, and the factors you should consider to ensure you find the right model for your phone and lifestyle needs. 

Picture of phone hovering above OTTOLIVES UV Smartphone Sanitizer

Why to Use a UV Smartphone Sanitizer

While cleaning solutions and disinfectant wipes have sanitization abilities, the best smartphone sanitizer is a UV smartphone sanitizer. These cell phone cleaners make it easy to disinfect your phone and other devices in mere minutes, and various times a day, by using a UV-C light. This is a short-wavelength ultraviolet light that neutralizes airborne microbes and makes them inactive [5]. 

A 2018 study done by Radiological Research at Columbia University Irving Medical Center showed that UV-C light is a low-cost solution for reducing air borne viruses as it can kill airborne flu viruses without causing any damage to human tissue [6]. In fact, jewelry cleaners also use UV-C light to clean fine jewelry. 

Smartphone sanitizers are a better option for cleaning your phone than alcohol wipes and other cleaning solutions as they can clean all around your phone, including harder to reach crevices. 

It’s important to note that the UV light is harmless for your phone, but can harm your eyes if you  look directly at it. For this reason, many UV smartphone sanitizers have auto shut off functions to turn off the UV lights when opened.

What Dirt is On Your Phone?

The bacteria and germs on your phone are typically the same culprits, so you may as well be comfortable with them. This way, you can avoid them at all costs [2]:

  • Streptococcus: This is the germ that causes the highly contagious strep throat. It is also linked to other bacteria like pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.

  • Staphylococcus: This is a common bacteria that is less serious, but can be the culprit of getting you sick. It can instigate mild illnesses like folliculitis and ear infections (surprise surprise with how often you hold your phone to your ear), but are also linked to sinusitis and gastroenteritis (the common stomach flu). 

  • E.Coli: This bacteria that is known to be present in your food (and can easily be picked up on a restaurant table) is not fatal, but can contribute to various infections and gastrointestinal illnesses.
  • Common Cold: The common cold is incredibly contagious, so it should come as little surprise that this can be easily transferred and carried by your phone. 
picture of woman in gym sitting beside cell phone sanitizer

Where Is Your Phone Picking Up Bacteria

  • School: Whether you are a student or a teacher, chances are that your phone is picking up a lot of bacteria and needs to be disinfected. In fact, it’s been revealed that an average high schooler’s smartphone can have up to 17,000 bacterial gene copies on it [3]. Think about it; your phone collects bacteria in your locker, change room, class desks, cafeteria tables, floors, or even inside the teacher’s desk if you are unlucky.

  • Bathrooms: How many times have you dropped your phone in the toilet or even rested it on the toilet paper holder? Imagine how much bacteria sits in all corners of a public bathroom — or even your home bathroom. In fact, according to the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, fecal matter can be found on 1 out of every 6 smartphones [4].

  • Hands: Your bacteria is also a breeding ground for bacteria considering the hands you shake and the surfaces you touch. Then, you touch your phone — and let others touch your device too!
picture of man putting comb in HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Sanitizer, Grey

What to Consider When Buying a Smartphone Sanitizer

Phone Compatibility:

What phone models are your smartphone sanitizer compatible with? The best smartphone sanitizer will be one that is more universal and can adapt to various phone models and other items. It’s important to identify the size of the machine you need so you can know ahead of time what you can fit in it. 

Additional functions:

What else can your smartphone sanitizer do? A lot of cell phone cleaners will also boast charging and aromatherapy capabilities, as well as the ability to clean devices other than your phone. Be sure to identify the unique features (or lack thereof) of a cleaner before investing to ensure you can get your money’s worth. 

Additionally, if a smartphone cleaner has various features, be sure to read ahead of time to know if these features can be used in tandem or if they have to be used separately — for example, some machines won’t clean your cell phone and run aromatherapy at the same time.

Size:

How big is this machine? Be sure to check out the specs of a model to know how big it is. This will help you to identify the types of items you will be able to clean. Additionally, if you’re only looking to clean your mobile phone and have no use for cleaning other items, you may actually want to look for a more compact mode that you can carry around. When determining the best smartphone sanitizer size for you, consider what you plan on using it for.

In Conclusion:
The Best Smartphone Sanitizers

The best smartphone sanitizers on the market are UV smartphone sanitizers which break down 99.9% of your phone’s bacteria with ultraviolet wavelength light. This is a speedy and efficient way to keep your phone clean and reduce your chances of catching an airborne virus from your phone. Our guide of the best smartphone sanitizer reviews will help you to see the best options on the market so that you can find the smartphone sanitizer that will best suit your unique needs and lifestyle. 

Joseph and Family
About Joseph D. Nielson

Former journalist and editor for various press groups, I now dedicate my time to reviewing products for the home and family life. When I get time to myself, I enjoy rock climbing, taking my dirt bike for a rip, and most importantly providing my family with the best home possible!