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How to Clean Your iPhone Before Trading it In

How to Clean Your iPhone Before Trading it In

If you’re looking to trade in your iPhone, you’ll want to make sure that it’s clean and in top condition. This will help you get the most money for your trade-in and make sure that the person who ends up with your device is happy with it. Cleaning your iPhone can be a daunting task, so we’ve broken down the steps you need to take to make sure your device is looking its best.

1. Back up Your Data

The first step in the cleaning process is to back up your data. You’ll want to make sure that any photos, videos, documents, contacts, and other data that you’ve saved on your iPhone are backed up to another device or a cloud service. This will ensure that you don’t lose any of your data if something goes wrong during the cleaning process.

2. Turn Off Find My iPhone

If you have Find My iPhone enabled on your device, you’ll want to turn it off before you start cleaning. To do this, go to Settings > iCloud > Find My iPhone and toggle the switch to the “off” position. This will ensure that the new owner of your device doesn’t have any trouble setting it up.

3. Remove Your SIM Card

Before you start cleaning, you’ll want to remove your SIM card from the device. To do this, simply insert a paperclip or a SIM card removal tool into the small hole on the side of your iPhone. This will pop out the SIM card tray, allowing you to remove the card. Once the card is removed, you can store it in a safe place if you plan to use it in a new device.

4. Power Down Your iPhone

Once you’ve backed up your data and removed your SIM card, you’ll want to power down your iPhone. To do this, hold down the power button until the “slide to power off” screen appears. Slide the switch to the right and wait for your device to completely shut down.

5. Clean the Exterior

Once your device is powered down, you can start cleaning the exterior of your iPhone. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and warm water to gently wipe down the body of the device. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the device. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the nooks and crannies of your device.

6. Clean the Screen

To clean the screen of your device, you’ll want to use a slightly dampened cloth. Avoid using too much water as this can seep into the device and cause damage. Instead, use a damp cloth and gently wipe the screen in a circular motion. You can also use a screen cleaner specifically designed for smartphones to ensure that your screen is free of smudges and dirt.

7. Clean the Home and Volume Buttons

The home and volume buttons on your device can be a breeding ground for dirt and grime. To clean these buttons, use a soft, lint-free cloth and warm water. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol for a more thorough clean.

8. Clean the Headphone Jack and Charging Port

The headphone jack and charging port of your device can also collect dirt and debris over time. To clean these areas, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Gently swab the inside of the jack and port to remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or dirt that may be stuck in the ports.

9. Reassemble Your iPhone

Once you’ve finished cleaning all the parts of your device, you can reassemble it. Replace the SIM card in the SIM card tray and power on your device. Once your device is powered up, you can check to make sure that all your data is still intact.

10. Erase All Content and Settings

The last step in the cleaning process is to erase all the content and settings from your device. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. This will completely wipe your device, leaving it like new for the new owner.



Cleaning your iPhone before trading it in is essential if you want to get the most money for it. By following the steps outlined above, you can make sure that your device is in top condition and ready for its new owner. So take a few minutes to give your iPhone a good cleaning before you trade it in and you’ll be sure to get the most bang for your buck.

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