9 iPhone Charging Mistakes You’re Probably Making–Apple Experts Say They’re Ruining Your Battery!

Charging Phones to 100% 

Charging the phone to 100% and using it until the battery drains to 0% is also a common mistake, Smigel warns. “Doing this can wear out the battery faster, reducing its lifespan,” he says. “It is recommended to turn on Optimized Battery Charging and charge the phone to 80% to extend the battery life. This feature helps the battery to last longer by reducing the amount of time the phone is charged to 100%.”

Charging Your Phone In Extreme Temps 

High temperatures are a major phone battery enemy. And since charging your phone already delivers power and warmth, the last thing you want to do is create even more warmth by charging it in sunlight or with a heavy phone case on. “To keep the phone cool, it is recommended to remove the case, avoid using the phone while charging, and keep it away from direct sunlight and hot environments,” Smigel says. “These measures are especially crucial during the summer months, where temperatures can soar.”

Using a charger that is not designed for your phone

“Using a charger that is not designed for your specific phone model can cause damage to the battery,” says Tech Expert Imran Aftab. “It’s important to use the charger that came with your phone or one that is specifically designed for your phone model.”

Using your phone while it's charging 

It’s tempting to keep using your phone while it’s charging (work and the demands of life never stop, do they?). But if you can avoid it, you will help your phone’s battery charge better and more efficiently. “Using your phone while it's charging can cause a drop in charging speed and can also be potentially dangerous if the phone overheats,” Aftab said. “It's best to avoid using your phone while it's charging.”

Using cheap charging accessories
 

Whether you’re saving money on that budget charging brick or cables that become frayed in weeks, it’s important not to choose cheap over quality when it comes to charging accessories for your iPhone. These accessories can increase your phone’s temperature or affect how well or fast they charge. Which is all to say: they’ll finish your chances of effectively charging your device. 

Not Cleaning Your Charging Port & Cable 

Not cleaning the charging port and cable is another mistake that many iPhone users make. “Dirt and debris can interfere with the charging process and reduce the effectiveness of the charger,” Smigel says. “Regular cleaning can prevent this from happening and ensure that your phone is charging correctly.”

Charging At A Public Charging Station 

Finally, charging the phone in public charging stations is not a good idea — finding alternate battery sources is a wise move. “These stations may be compromised by hackers who can copy sensitive data or inject malware into the device,” Smigel says. “Therefore, it is essential to avoid public charging stations and instead invest in a portable charger or power bank.”

Taking care of your iPhone's battery is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance, Smigel reminds us — and knowing which common mistakes to avoid is one of the best ways to boost your battery’s health and longevity.