Modern smartphones are undeniably impressive. They allow us to stay connected, access information instantly, and handle daily tasks more efficiently than ever. However, as these devices have become more advanced, so have the ways in which we unintentionally misuse them. If you’re a smartphone user, chances are you’re making at least one mistake that could harm your device’s performance or shorten its lifespan. Here’s a breakdown of the most common smartphone habits you should break — and how to use your phone smarter starting today.
1. Letting Your Battery Drain to 0%
One of the most common misconceptions is that you should always let your phone’s battery fully drain before charging it again. This might have been true for older nickel-based batteries, but modern smartphones use lithium-ion batteries, and they work differently.
“Allowing your battery to drop to 0% regularly can reduce its overall lifespan,” experts say.
The best practice is to keep your battery between 20% and 80% whenever possible. Regularly letting it die completely puts strain on the battery and can lead to a faster decline in battery health.
2. Using Cheap Charging Cables
Saving a few dollars on charging cables might seem harmless, but those generic cords you find online or at the gas station can be risky.
“Poor-quality cables may not regulate current properly and could even pose fire hazards,” warns one technician.
In addition, low-grade cables can charge your phone inefficiently or damage your phone’s internal components over time. Stick to certified accessories, especially those recommended by your phone manufacturer.
3. Overcharging Overnight
Plugging in your phone before bed and waking up with it at 100% might seem convenient, but keeping it at full charge for extended periods isn’t ideal.
Although most modern smartphones are smart enough to stop charging once they hit 100%, the constant trickle charge to maintain that level can create extra heat — and heat is one of the biggest enemies of lithium-ion batteries.
“Heat degrades battery health faster than almost anything else,” technicians agree.
Instead, try charging your phone before bed and unplugging it once it hits around 80–90%. Or use smart plugs with timers if charging overnight is unavoidable.
4. Not Updating Your Operating System
We get it: those pesky update notifications can be annoying. But regularly skipping updates isn’t just about missing out on cool new features. Updates often include critical security patches and performance improvements.
“Ignoring system updates can leave your phone vulnerable to security threats,” says cybersecurity experts.
Plus, updates can enhance battery efficiency, improve camera performance, and fix bugs that might slow your phone down. Always back up your data and then update your phone when prompted.
5. Keeping Too Many Apps Open or Installed
Many users think closing apps in the background is good for battery life, but that’s not always true. In fact, constantly swiping away apps can sometimes cause more harm than good by forcing your phone to relaunch them from scratch.
However, hoarding apps you don’t use does clutter your system. Some continue running background processes, drain memory, and even send push notifications that eat up battery.
“If you haven’t used an app in months, it’s time to delete it,” tech experts recommend.
Do a monthly cleanup. Check app settings to limit background activity and restrict apps from accessing location services unless necessary.
6. Ignoring App Permissions
Every time you install a new app, it usually asks for access to your location, camera, microphone, contacts, and more. Most users blindly hit “Allow” without a second thought — but this can be dangerous.
“Apps with too many permissions can collect sensitive data or slow down your phone,” privacy analysts warn.
Go to your settings and review permissions regularly. Disable any that don’t make sense for the app’s function. For example, does a flashlight app really need access to your microphone?
7. Not Restarting Your Phone Regularly
We reboot our computers when they start acting up, but most of us never think to do the same with our phones. Yet smartphones can benefit from a restart once in a while to clear temporary files, refresh memory, and close hidden background tasks.
“Restarting your phone weekly can help it run smoother and prevent performance issues,” says a mobile support specialist.
A simple reboot can also fix minor glitches like freezing, lagging, or poor signal. Make it a habit — maybe every Sunday morning — and you might notice fewer hiccups.
8. Using Your Phone in Extreme Temperatures
Your phone is a fragile piece of technology. It’s not meant to be left baking on the dashboard in summer or used in freezing winter conditions for too long.
Extreme heat can cause batteries to swell, apps to crash, or even result in permanent damage. Cold temperatures can slow down performance and temporarily reduce battery capacity.
“Try to keep your device between 0°C and 35°C (32°F–95°F) for optimal performance,” say manufacturers.
If you must use it in the cold or heat, limit exposure time and avoid charging during extreme temperatures.
9. Not Using a Case or Screen Protector
Smartphones are expensive, and yet many people still carry them around unprotected. A single drop can crack the screen, damage internal parts, or worse — and repairs are rarely cheap.
“A good case and tempered glass protector can save you hundreds in repair costs,” according to repair technicians.
Invest in a durable case that matches your lifestyle (shockproof for active users, wallet-style for everyday use, etc.). And don’t skip the screen protector — even if your phone has Gorilla Glass.
10. Allowing Notifications to Take Over
Every app wants your attention, but allowing non-essential notifications can drain your battery and distract you throughout the day. Vibrations, screen wake-ups, and syncing all use power.
“Turn off notifications you don’t need — your battery and your focus will thank you,” suggest productivity experts.
Manage notifications in settings, and silence anything non-critical. You’ll improve both battery life and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Use Your Phone Smarter, Not Harder
Smartphones are incredible tools — but only if we treat them right. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can extend your phone’s lifespan, improve performance, and avoid costly repairs or early upgrades.
Think of it like this: your phone is your digital companion. Keep it healthy, and it will serve you well for years. Ignore the signs, and you’ll end up frustrated, out of warranty, and out of luck.
So next time you’re tempted to leave your phone plugged in overnight or skip that update — remember this list. And make smarter choices, one swipe at a time.