Mobile phones are often among our most valuable possessions, and also contain a lot of important information and offer facilities we need to use on an almost constant basis. However, a lot of people start to take their smartphones for granted, and get a bit casual when it comes to looking after them.
The better care you take of your phone, the longer it will stay looking smart and attractive, and the less chance there is it’ll get broken or damaged. You can also make sure your battery stays in good health, meaning your phone will keep a charge for a decent amount of time for as long as you want to keep using it.
Everyone knows to keep their phone protected from scratches and dirt with a good case, but here are some more unusual suggestions on how you can better look after your mobile:
Keep It Dry
It might sound weird, but the people who take the best care of their phones avoid using them outside in the rain, or anywhere near open water (for example on a boat or on the beach). Water getting into the workings of your phone can ruin it irreparably. When you are carrying it, you should also make sure it is protected from rain – keep it in a sealed pocket or sealed part of your bag where water isn’t going to pour in as you walk.
Don’t Let Your Friends Paw It!
Letting other people use your phone if they actually need to is one thing, but if your friends tend to want to examine your phone or just “play with it” then say no if you can without causing offence! People who are unfamiliar with the workings of a specific phone are far more likely to do something wrong to it, and if you’re out having fun, there’s always a risk they’ll drop it.
Keep It in the Same Place When Not in Use
If you always keep your phone in the same place when you’re sleeping, showering, or doing those other few things you do each day without it, then you won’t end up scrambling around looking for it in a rush or risk it getting stepped on or squashed under a sofa cushion. Choose somewhere high up but where it won’t fall, like a bedside table, or keep it where you keep your keys or other important stuff. Choose somewhere close to a power point so you can charge it.
Insure It!
Make sure your phone is included on your home insurance policy (and that this cover is sufficient and includes cover for when you’re not at home), or that you have insurance from your mobile phone manufacturer, or your network, or from a specialised supplier like Protect Your Bubble Mobile Insurance (which can be the best option if you also want to cover other gadgets you take out with you like your tablet, camera and laptop). Insuring your phone means that if anything does happen, you can get a replacement and fast!
Laura Ginn is a consumer interest blogger who likes helping people get the most out of their gadgets and technology. She believes the best value comes from not only choosing the best devices, but from also taking the best care of them.
