7 smartphone charging tips to protect your device and extend battery life

While smartphones have become indispensable, many users overlook basic charging habits that can prevent overheating, slow battery degradation, and reduce the risk of fire or electric shock.

Do not charge phones under pillows or blankets

Many users plug in their phones beside the bed, often with blankets, pillows, or their bodies covering the device.

On an Apple support page titled "Important safety information for iPhone," the company warned: "Don’t sleep on a device, power adapter, or wireless charger, or place them under a blanket, pillow, or your body, when it’s connected to a power source."

The company noted that charging in poorly ventilated spaces can lead to overheating, which may damage internal components or cause fire hazards. It also advised placing devices in open, well-ventilated areas during charging and avoiding direct skin contact with charging cables.

Keep phones in cool places

High temperatures are one of the main causes of battery wear.

Chao-Yang Wang, director of the Electrochemical Engine Center at Penn State University in the U.S., told HuffPost that extreme temperatures can damage battery health.

Users should avoid charging phones in direct sunlight or hot environments. If charging outdoors, place the phone in the shade.

Avoid fast charging in hot weather

Fast charging can fully power some phones in under 20 minutes, but the process generates considerable heat.

When combined with high ambient temperatures, this can harm the battery and other internal components. Slower charging is safer during heatwaves.

Do not wait until battery hits zero

Lithium-ion batteries are measured in charge cycles, with two 50% charges counting as one full cycle. This means users do not need to wait until the battery is nearly empty before recharging. In fact, allowing the battery to drop close to 0% may cause some cells to lose functionality.

Experts recommend keeping battery levels between 20% and 80%.

The battery performs best and lasts longest when kept between 65% and 75%, according to Business Insider. Charging overnight should also be avoided when possible.

Use surge protectors

In areas with unstable power supply, surge protectors can prevent voltage spikes from damaging phones.

These devices help stabilize the current and protect against sudden surges.

Unplug chargers during thunderstorms

Lightning strikes can travel through power lines and damage plugged-in devices. To reduce the risk, users should unplug chargers during storms.

Use original or certified charging accessories

Cheap or counterfeit chargers pose serious safety risks, as they often lack proper safety controls. They may damage the battery or reduce its lifespan.

As many phone makers no longer include chargers in the box, tech site GizChina recommends using only certified products to ensure quality and safety.

Charging cables should also be inspected regularly. If they show signs of fraying, exposed wiring, or loose connections, they should be replaced immediately.