iPhone Owner's Guide

How to Take Care of Your iPhone

Now that you've got your new phone, you should learn how to maintain your iPhone. Keeping your iPhone (or any other gadget) in shape will ensure that you get the best resale value when it's time to upgrade. It will also help lengthen the life of your device and improve its performance. Here are some iPhone care tips to maintain your device and keep your iPhone in good condition.

Protect Your iPhone

A protective case will ensure that any accidental drops or bumps are absorbed by the case, and not the phone itself. When choosing a case, you'll find thousands of options. First, look for something you like. Most often if you don't like the look of something, you're not going to use it. Next, look at what type of case you would prefer. iPhone cases come in many shapes and sizes: pouches, skins, shells, bumpers, clip-ons, etc. Make your decision based on how you've treated your phones in the past. If you drop your phone a lot, or throw it around, a case with more protection would be a better choice. People who carry their phone in a purse, handbag, or backpack should look for a case that offers protection on all sides. For people who keep their phone in their pocket, a bumper or skin will do.

Get a Screen Protector

Screen damage impacts the value of your phone more than anything else, so protecting your screen is always a wise investment. When it comes to protecting your screen, there are two good options. The first is a ZAGG shield, which protects all sides of the phone including the screen. The second option is to combine a front-only screen protector with the case of your choice. You can purchase these types of screen protectors for under $5 on eBay or Amazon. I recommend changing the screen protector every 2-3 months when you clean your device.

How to Clean Your iPhone

Every month or so you should give your iPhone a good cleaning. Remember, phones are more likely to carry bacteria than any other electronic gadget. If you don’t know how to clean your iPhone, don’t worry, it’s a very simple process. Always power off your device before you perform any of the cleaning steps below.

Grab a microfiber cleaning cloth and a gadget-safe cleaning solution (Brasso and Monkey Spunk are good brands) and give the phone a good cleaning. Always spray the cleaner on the rag and never straight on the device.

Next, grab a compressed air can for use with electronics (available at Office Depot, NewEgg, Staples, etc.) and clean out all the ports on the device. Spray the headphone jack, connector port, and SIM card slot.

Re-apply your screen protector and case and turn your device back on. This is always a good time to back up your iphone with iTunes as well. We recommend doing a back-up along with a cleaning monthly.

Remember, the main thing that will keep your iPhone in good condition is you. Just be careful with your iPhone and take care of it as best you can. We all know that accidents happen and sometimes they are unavoidable. We recommend a warranty for those who are prone to accidents or have had phone- care issues in the past. Proper care and maintenance along with the right accessories will greatly enhance the life and value of your iPhone.