We all love our gadgets, but we often neglect the lifelines that keep them running: the charging cables. Charging cables are essential accessories for our portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, headphones, and more. These humble accessories are often abused, mistreated, and forgotten until they break down and leave us stranded. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With some simple dos and don’ts, you can make your charging cables last longer and avoid the hassle of buying new ones every few months.
In this blog, we will share some dos and don'ts of charging cable maintenance.
Do's of Charging Cable Maintenance
Pull the cables out by the end that connects to the plug or the device.
Don’t pull your cables out by grabbing the wire somewhere in the middle, as this puts a lot of stress on the cable. Grab the hard plastic at either end, such as the USB connector that plugs into the charger block or the small bit that fits into your electronic device, and pull the cable out that way instead.
Do coil your cables gently and store them in a protective case when not in use.
Don’t just squish a cable together and shove it in a bag or fold it tightly and tie the ends in a knot because this puts a lot of stress on the wires. Coil a cable gently on top of itself 3–4 times, so it’s about 1/3 or 1/4 of its size, then tuck the ends under the loop to secure it. You can easily tuck a cable looped in this manner into a small pocket inside your backpack or suitcase to transport it safely without damaging it. This prevents harsh bends in the cable and allows you to quickly and easily uncoil the cable without creating any accidental knots or twists. You can secure the cable from unfolding by using some velcro ties.
Choose the right wire and cable for your device and usage.
Different types of cables have different specifications and compatibility. For example, some cables support fast charging or data transfer, while others don’t. Cable size matters for fast charging. Check the gauge before buying any cable to ensure it meets your speed requirements, whether it's for a Micro USB fast charging cable or other connectors. Some cables are more durable and flexible than others. Some cables are compatible with certain devices or chargers, while others are not. Therefore, it is important to do some research before buying a cable to make sure it suits your needs and preferences.
Don’ts of Charging Cable Maintenance
Don’t bend or squish your cables when they’re plugged in.
Give your cables lots of room when you plug them in. Don’t squish them behind or underneath anything because the pressure and tension lead to broken cables very quickly. For example, if you plug in your phone charger behind any piece of furniture, don’t push the headboard of the bed or the piece of furniture right up against the charger. Leave some room so the cable isn’t squished. If you use an electronic device like your phone while it’s plugged into a charger, try not to use it in a position that requires you to bend or pull on the cable.
Don’t expose your cables to extreme temperatures or moisture.
Heat and cold can damage the insulation and wiring of your cables, making them more brittle and prone to cracking. Moisture can cause corrosion or short circuits in your cables, rendering them useless or dangerous. Therefore, avoid leaving your cables in direct sunlight, near heaters, in freezing conditions, or in humid environments. If your cables get wet, dry them thoroughly before using them again.
Don’t use damaged cables.
If you notice any signs of wear and tear on your cables, such as exposed wires, loose connectors, cracks, or cuts, stop using them immediately and replace them with new ones. Damaged cables can cause electric shocks, fires, or damage to your devices. If you want to try to fix them yourself, you can use some DIY methods, such as wrapping them with electrical tape, paracord, or the spring from a retractable pen. However, these are only temporary solutions and may not be very effective or safe. The best option is to buy new cables that are high-quality and durable.
Conclusion:
Remember that charging cables are not disposable items and should be treated with respect and care. By following some simple dos and don’ts of charging cable maintenance, we can prolong their lifespan and performance and avoid the frustration of dealing with broken or faulty cables.