The surprising mistakes you’re making when charging your phone

Most of us charge our phones every day without thinking twice. It’s something we do before bed, in the car, or while working — and we just assume it’s safe. But did you know that certain charging habits can damage your phone, shorten its battery life, or even cause a safety risk?

Here are some common phone charging mistakes many people make — and what to do instead.

Leaving your phone on charge overnight

It’s convenient to plug in your phone before going to sleep and wake up to a full battery. But doing this every night can wear out the battery over time. Modern smartphones are smart, but keeping the battery at 100 per cent for hours isn’t ideal.

What to do instead:
Charge your phone during the evening and unplug it once it reaches around 80 to 90 per cent. This helps reduce stress on the battery and keeps it healthy for longer.

Using cheap or fake chargers

It might be tempting to buy a $5 charger from the local shop, but cheap or unbranded chargers can be dangerous. They may not meet safety standards and can overheat, damage your phone, or even cause a fire.

What to do instead:
Always use the charger that came with your phone, or buy a replacement from a trusted brand. Look for ones that are marked as “certified” or approved for your phone model.

Using your phone while it’s charging

Using your phone while it’s charging might not seem like a big deal, but it can cause the phone to heat up. Heat is one of the biggest enemies of battery health.

What to do instead:
If possible, let your phone rest while it’s charging. Avoid streaming videos or playing games during this time.

Charging your phone in the car all the time

Many people use their car charger regularly, especially during long drives. But car chargers often provide unstable power, which can slowly wear down your battery.

What to do instead:
Use car chargers only when necessary. A good quality power bank is often a safer option for charging on the go.

Your phone is one of your most-used tools, so it’s worth taking care of it. Avoiding these common charging mistakes can help your battery last longer and reduce the risk of damage or fire.

If you’re unsure whether your current charger is safe, speak to a professional or ask someone tech-savvy to help you check. And remember — staying safe with technology doesn’t need to be complicated. A few small changes can make a big difference.