Forget expensive, specialized gadgets. According to a leading technology expert, the most effective tools for keeping your smartphones, tablets, and laptops sparkling clean might already be tucked away in your kitchen or bathroom cupboard.
Simple Solutions from a Tech Pro
On Saturday, January 11, 2026, CTV Your Morning welcomed tech expert Avery Swartz to demystify the best practices for electronics hygiene. The segment focused on practical, accessible cleaning methods that bypass the need for costly equipment. Swartz emphasized that for everyday smudges, dust, and germs, consumers often already own everything they need.
Common items like microfiber cloths, isopropyl alcohol (diluted appropriately), distilled water, and cotton swabs can handle most cleaning tasks safely and effectively. Swartz provided clear guidance on how to use these items without damaging sensitive screens or components, stressing the importance of turning devices off and avoiding excess moisture.
Do UV Cleaning Kits Live Up to the Hype?
A significant part of the discussion tackled the growing market for ultraviolet (UV) light cleaning kits, which are often marketed as high-tech sanitizing solutions for phones and other personal devices. Swartz addressed whether these products, which can carry a premium price tag, justify their cost for the average user.
While acknowledging that UV light can kill certain bacteria and viruses, the expert urged consumers to consider their actual needs. For most people, the primary goal is removing visible grime, fingerprints, and oils, which UV light does not address. A physical wipe-down with the right solution is still necessary. Therefore, for general cleaning, a specialized UV kit may be an unnecessary expense.
Smart Maintenance for Longer Device Life
The conversation underscored that regular, proper cleaning is not just about aesthetics; it's a key aspect of device maintenance. Dust and debris can clog ports and vents, leading to overheating and reduced performance over time. By incorporating simple cleaning into a regular routine, users can potentially extend the lifespan of their valuable electronics.
Swartz's core advice was to prioritize gentle, physical cleaning with readily available materials and to be skeptical of marketing claims for expensive gadgets that promise more than they deliver for everyday use. Keeping your tech clean doesn't require a big investment—just a few minutes and the right household items.
