“Putting it under a pillow·inside a blanket shortens its lifespan”···Four places where you should avoid charging your phone - 경향신문

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Because charging a phone is a daily routine, it is hard to be aware of the risks. pexels

Many people connect a phone to a charger before sleeping and leave it next to a pillow. Some fall asleep while watching videos in bed, or place the phone inside the blanket so it can be used immediately in the morning. However, where you place and charge a phone can affect not only battery lifespan but also safety.

Phones use lithium-ion batteries. It is normal for the device and charger to generate heat during charging. The problem is when heat builds up excessively. Repeated exposure to high temperatures accelerates battery aging, and if the device or battery is damaged, the risk of overheating or fire can increase.

The first place to avoid is the bed. In particular, the habit of putting a charging phone under a pillow or inside a blanket should be changed. When soft bedding covers the device and charger, heat has difficulty escaping. Also avoid lying on top of the phone or sleeping with the charging cable under the covers.

The same goes for a sofa or between cushions. Some people briefly set a charging phone on the sofa and wedge it between cushions, but the surrounding materials may obstruct airflow. When charging, use a firm, flat surface such as a table instead of a bed or sofa.

Apple advises not to cover a charging iPhone, its power adapter, or a wireless charger with a blanket or pillow, and to use them in a well-ventilated area. Google likewise recommends that when charging a Pixel phone, you avoid soft surfaces such as beds or sofas and place it out of direct sunlight.

So is charging overnight itself dangerous? What matters is not only the charging time but also the condition of the device and the surrounding environment. Newer smartphones have features that manage charging, but these do not eliminate all risks from overheating or damage. It is important to use the charger and cable recommended by the manufacturer and not cover the device or place it where heat becomes trapped.

Bathrooms require caution because of moisture. It is best to avoid charging a phone near a sink or plugging a charger into an outlet next to a bathtub. If water enters the device or charging connector, it can cause malfunction, a short circuit, or electric shock.

Even if a phone has water resistance, you cannot be complacent. Water resistance varies by product and usage conditions, and it does not mean you can charge when the device or charging connector is wet. If there is moisture, dry it thoroughly according to the manufacturer guidance before charging. Also avoid forcibly drying it with a hair dryer or other heat while it is wet.

Inside a car, temperature is the issue. In particular, a dashboard in direct sunlight or the interior of a parked car with windows closed can become very hot in a short time. Charging a phone in such conditions can harm battery performance and lifespan. At high temperatures, a device may slow the charging speed or temporarily stop charging.

If a phone has become hot, let it cool in a cool, well-ventilated place before charging. Avoid putting it in a refrigerator or freezer to lower the temperature rapidly. Rapid temperature changes can cause condensation, creating moisture inside the device.

To charge a phone safely, check the condition of the charger and cable. If the cable insulation is frayed or the connector is bent or loose, it is best to stop using it. If a wall socket is loose or a power adapter becomes abnormally hot, stop using it and check its condition.

Choose chargers provided by the phone manufacturer, verified for compatibility, or compliant with relevant safety standards. Avoid purchasing products of unclear origin solely because they are cheap. Samsung Electronics also advises using genuine or approved accessories and against using damaged power cords or plugs.

You should also check that dust or debris has not accumulated in the charging port. However, do not insert sharp metal objects such as needles or pins to scrape it out in the name of cleaning. Because the port can be damaged, follow the method provided by the manufacturer.

Wireless chargers are no exception. If metal objects such as coins or keys are between the charging pad and the phone, those objects can heat up or charging may be affected. If you use a metal case or accessories, check the user instructions for that charger.

Charging habits are related to battery lifespan. As lithium-ion batteries age, their capacity naturally decreases. High temperatures can further accelerate battery aging. Therefore, if you want a battery to last longer, pay attention not only to the state of charge but also to the temperature of the environment where the device is placed.

You do not need to wait until the battery reaches 100%, nor run it down to 0% before charging. Many newer smartphones have features that limit the charge level or adjust charging to usage patterns. Using such features can help reduce long-term battery aging. However, supported features and recommended settings vary by model, so check the manufacturer guidance.

If a phone becomes unusually hot while charging, first stop charging and move it to a cool place. Check whether the charging cable or adapter is damaged. If the battery is swollen or the exterior is deformed, or if there is a burning smell or smoke, stop using it and do not disassemble it yourself. If battery damage is suspected, have the manufacturer service center perform an inspection.