UV-C Light Sanitizers

What are UV-C light sanitizers and how do they work?

Ultraviolet (UV) is a type of electromagnetic radiation that originates from the sun, but you can artificially create it using special bulbs, like those found in UV-C light sanitizers.

UV-C light sanitizers emit UV light to help prevent or reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi on devices. They don't use liquid, heat, or chemical substances, thus making them safe for a multitude of devices, including small electronics. Because they sanitize through light, they can potentially get to microorganisms hiding in gaps that you couldn't otherwise get to with wipes.

While UV-C sanitizers are most commonly found in hospitals, you can find them in some airlines and hotels as well. And portable sanitizers for home use are becoming more popular. Many light sanitizers work with replacement bulbs, which come in wattages from 9 up to 40, designed to fit specific models or sizes so you can keep the sanitizer going once the original bulb burns out.

What types of UV-C light sanitizers are available and what are they good for?

There are three types of UV-C light sanitizers for home use. Box UV-C sanitizers can accommodate one or two devices, sometimes more depending on the size. Close the box, press a button, and the sanitation process begins. These are ideal for setting up in the home to use with a variety of items, like smartphones, keys, TV remotes, jewelry, tweezers, pacifiers, kids' toys, smartwatches, fitness trackers, make-up brushes, credit cards, and more. Some are even big enough to accommodate tablets, portable gaming devices, and headphones.

While box UV-C sanitizers typically take anywhere from 3-5 minutes to fully sanitize what's inside, a UV wand works much more quickly, in a matter of seconds. This is because you hold one in your hand and move it manually over the surface you want to sanitize, like a keyboard, mouse, or other office supplies. They are usually rechargeable and portable, making them ideal for use on-the-go and travel.

UV-C bags work much like boxes except they use LEDs inside a bag to sanitize your devices. These are better to bring with you versus a box with a hard-plastic shell, and are often rechargeable.

What features can you find in UV-C light sanitizers?

Some box-style UV-C sanitizers have charging ports so you can recharge your smartphone while it's getting cleaned; some even include acoustic audio amplifiers so you can still hear notifications if they come through.

For portable bags, you'll want ones with rechargeable batteries so you can truly use them on the go, and advanced safety locks are useful to protect expensive devices.

Some UV light sanitizers have compartments for adding essential oils for aromatherapy and so your devices come out smelling nice, too. And, as noted, some are large enough to fit multiple devices, making them perfect to set up at the front door so everyone can sanitize their items as soon as they arrive home.