It ok to occasionally wipe down your iOS devices.
In fact, Apple now recommends it.
Apple on Monday updated its support document on cleaning its products, stating that it’s ok to use a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes for the purpose of cleaning germs from your devices.
Prior to this, Apple’s cleaning guidelines have recommended against all cleaners, the documentation warning that the chemicals have the potential to damage the oleophobic coating on iPhone and iPad displays. Apple still warns against aerosol sprays, ammonia, window cleaners, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, compressed air, and abrasives:
Using a 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipe or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, you may gently wipe the hard, nonporous surfaces of your Apple product, such as the display, keyboard, or other exterior surfaces. Don’t use bleach. Avoid getting moisture in any opening, and don’t submerge your Apple product in any cleaning agents. Don’t use on fabric or leather surfaces.
The company has also stated that users should avoid spraying cleaners directly onto their devices and avoid getting moisture into the openings.
The updated guidelines arrive as the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread around the world. Given that most people use their devices constantly, this allows them to disinfect and cut down on another possible for infection.
It’s unknown as to exactly how long the coronavirus lasts on surfaces, and recent studies have indicated that it can survive on glass or plastic for as little as two hours or as long as nine days.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors and support.apple.com