8 of the best UV sanitizers to keep your phone, keys and more germ-free

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When is the last time you sanitized your phone? If "I have no idea" or "never?!" are the answers that come to mind, you're far from alone. According to researchers from the University of Arizona, the average cellphone carries 10 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. And while we all (hopefully) wash our hands post-restroom, many people rarely sanitize their phones.

To this end, it's no wonder the tech sanitizer industry is booming. In an attempt to bacteria-proof every aspect of our lives during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many companies are churning out UV light sanitizers as a means of germ protection.

Phone sanitizing devices use UV-C light to kill germs without liquid or chemical cleaning products. UV-C light has been used for more than 100 years to kill microorganisms, and studies have shown it can prevent the spread of some harmful diseases.

ALSO SEE: These weatherproof phone cases will save your phone's battery during Canadian winter

And while UV-C technology doesn't replace masks or social distancing as protection against the novel coronavirus, it does offer users some peace of mind regarding the bacteria they're carrying on their devices.

If you're considering investing in UV-C technology, there are a few different options you can choose from. Many newer models offer charge points or wireless charging technology to boost your device batteries, and some light sanitizers are even large enough to fit tablets, books, and other potential germ-laden products.

To keep your phone and other devices germ-free, check out these eight highly-rated UV-C light phone sanitizers.

PhoneSoap 3 Smartphone UV Sanitizer

Sanitize and charge your phone in one go with the PhoneSoap 3 UV sanitizer. The device kills 99.99% of germs and features two charging ports to act as a universal charger for any device. With its spacious design, the sanitizer fits all smartphones and, what's more, can safely sanitize anything that fits inside, including keys and credit cards. "[It] works great," reads one review. "Great little gadget to sanitize small items. So far, we've used this for our phones, AirPods and some jewelry. It's fast, easy and good to know we're getting another layer of clean! Would definitely recommend."

SHOP IT: Phone Soap, $80

HoMedics UV-Clean Portable Phone Sanitizer

Keep your phone free from germs with the HoMedics UV-Clean portable phone sanitizer bag. Created with a unique pop-up design, the phone sanitizer bag is smaller than other models making it highly portable. The device fits most smartphones and sanitizes one side of your device in just 30 seconds. "HoMedics utilized independent testing to prove this product's effectiveness- so you can rest assured your phone will be cleaned with this sanitizing case," reads one five-star review. "I've bought two of them and definitely recommend! You have nothing to lose except germs!"

SHOP IT: Best Buy, $80

Samsung Qi Wireless Charger and UV Sanitizer

Tested by world-leading inspection and testing companies, Samsung's UV sanitizer kills up to 99% of harmful germs and bacteria, including E. Coli and Staphylococcus. The sanitizer utilizes Qi Wireless Technology to charge your smartphone and includes a USB Type-C cable for other charging models. Earning more than 650 five-star reviews on Amazon, users praise the Samsung sanitizer's price and durability; "This is true quality," writes one shopper. "The product is larger than I expected and is made well. Samsung really hit it out of the park with this product."

SHOP IT: Amazon, $79

Casetify UV Sanitizer Lite

Disinfect your device in three minutes with Casetify's UV Sanitizer. Designed to remove 99.99% of germs that live on the surface of your phone, Casetify's ultraviolet phone sanitizer features both wireless charging and USB Type-C charging capabilities. With its spacious design, users can also sanitize personal items, such as keys and small accessories, in the Casetify device. According to one reviewer, "[it's a] great product that makes me feel so much better knowing that I can sanitize my masks, phone, AirPods, keys, everything else!"

SHOP IT: Casetify, $120

Mophie Universal Wireless Charging Pad with UV Phone Sanitizer

Compatible with all Qi-certified phones, the Mophie phone sanitizer lets you power up your device while keeping it clean. Its fast-charging capability is optimized for Apple, Samsung, and Google devices. "Easy to sanitize your phone, keys, glasses, etc., in the tray which easily fits my iPhone X Pro Max," writes one reviewer. "I also appreciate the charger which is on top of the tray. [...] I like it sitting on top so I can grab if there is a phone call or message."

SHOP IT: Best Buy, $100

Cahot Fast UV Light Sanitizer Box

Amazon's Choice for phone sterilizer, the Cahot Fast UV Light Sanitizer Box eliminates 99% of germs in just three minutes. There is ample room to fit glasses, jewellery, watches, and other small products you want to be sanitized and features a wireless charger for any iOS/Android QI-enabled devices. "I work in a very hands-on health care environment, and even though I wear a mask and gloves at the very least for all patient contact, I worry about my glasses, my Fitbit and my phone becoming contaminated," reads one five-star review. "This device has really given me some peace of mind, and it's very convenient to use too."

SHOP IT: Amazon, $80

PhoneSoap Homesoap UV Sanitizer For Larger Items

Large enough to sanitize tablets and smaller home items, the PhoneSoap Homesoap UV Sanitizer kills 99.99% of germs in just ten minutes. The unit features two built-in USB ports to charge your devices and can sanitize everything from handheld gaming consoles to books. With an average 4.8-star rating, reviewers laud the device for its portability; "My household just recently went on a trip and brought this with us. We wanted to be able to sanitize our phone, keys, credit cards, etc., while on the go," says one shopper. "This device did not disappoint."

SHOP IT: Best Buy, $400 (originally $415)

Newild Smart Sterilizer 2nd Generation

Newild's Smart Sterilizer eliminates up to 99% of germs and bacteria on your device within just five minutes. The sanitizer fits all phones below 8.5 inches, making it suitable for other small personal products, including wallets, money, and sunglasses. In an additional feature, the device comes with an aromatherapy function in which users can add essential oils to create great-smelling objects. "[After] using it over several weeks, I am really pleased with this," reads one of its 270 five-star reviews. "[It] cleans all those small items you never think to wash - keys, phone, scissors, toenail clippers, even razors. All of them come out looking and feeling cleaned like you're forgotten they could look. So thumbs up!"

SHOP IT: Amazon, $60

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