Smartphones, integral to daily life, often become breeding grounds for bacteria, carrying more germs than public doorknobs, according to Dr. Saswata Chatterjee, a gastroenterologist at CMRI Kolkata. Phones accumulate bacteria from hands, faces, and various surfaces throughout the day, yet they are cleaned less frequently than visibly dirty public surfaces. This lack of cleaning can lead to health issues, including food poisoning and gastrointestinal infections. The risk of contamination increases during humid conditions, as bacteria thrive in such environments. To minimize health risks, Dr. Chatterjee recommends regularly cleaning phones with alcohol-based disinfectant wipes, avoiding use while eating, and practicing good hand hygiene after contact with public surfaces. Making phone hygiene a regular habit is essential for overall health.