In today’s digital world, smartphones have become part of our daily life. But many people are using phones with broken displays, without thinking much about the risks. You might have also seen someone using a phone with a cracked screen. Some even continue using such phones for months because screen repair costs a lot. But do you know using a broken display phone is not safe? Let’s understand why tech experts are warning about this and how to deal with such issues.
Why Smartphone Displays Are Easily Damaged
Smartphones are Delicate
Most modern smartphones come with large touchscreens made of glass. Even though manufacturers use toughened glass like Gorilla Glass, it is still not unbreakable. When phones fall accidentally or hit hard surfaces, the screen may crack or break.
Lack of Proper Handling
Many users handle their phones carelessly – using it while walking, sleeping with it near pillow, putting it in pockets with keys, etc. All these habits can damage the display quickly.
Why People Still Use Cracked Display Phones
Repair Cost is High
The main reason many users don’t repair the cracked screen is due to the high cost. Replacing a phone display, especially for premium or mid-range models, can cost thousands of rupees. So people continue using their phone with a broken screen.
Phone Still Functions
Some users feel that as long as the phone is working, there is no need to repair it. Even if a small crack is present, they think it is manageable and ignore it. But this can lead to big issues later.
Major Risks of Using a Cracked Phone Display
1. Dust and Dirt Entering the Phone
When your phone display is cracked, it opens a path for dust, dirt, and even moisture to enter the internal parts. The screen acts as a protective layer for the hardware inside. Once it’s damaged, all other components like motherboard, speaker, or camera lens are exposed to the environment.
What Happens Next?
- Dust can settle on camera lens, reducing photo quality.
- Moisture can cause short circuits or corrosion.
- Internal damage leads to permanent phone failure.
Also Read: How to delete leaked photos and videos from online to protect your personal data from cyber threats.
2. Touch Response Issues
When your screen is cracked, the touch layer under the glass gets affected. You might notice:
- Lag in touch response
- Some areas not working
- Typing errors
- Inaccurate screen taps
Gradually, the touchscreen may stop working completely. This not only frustrates users but also makes the phone unusable.
3. Eye Damage Due to Blue Light
A healthy smartphone display already emits a lot of blue light, which is harmful to the eyes with long use. But when the screen is cracked, the light is not filtered properly.
Effects:
- Blue light may directly hit your eyes without proper diffusion.
- It causes strain on your eyes.
- Leads to headaches and blurry vision.
- May damage the retina with long exposure.
Tech experts warn that prolonged use of broken displays can cause permanent eye problems.
Can We Fix Scratches or Minor Cracks?
Yes, if your phone has only surface-level scratches or minor cracks, you can try some simple home remedies. But remember, these are temporary solutions and not permanent fixes.
Home Remedies to Remove Display Scratches
1. Baking Soda Method
Baking soda is easily available at home. Here’s how to use it:
- Take 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
- Mix it with 1 tablespoon of water to make a thick paste.
- Use a clean cotton cloth or soft microfiber cloth.
- Apply the paste gently on the scratched area.
- Rub in circular motion for few minutes.
This helps in reducing light scratches and makes the display look better.
2. Use Car Scratch Removal Cream
In the market, you will find scratch remover creams for cars. These can also be used carefully on smartphone screens.
Steps:
- Take a small amount of scratch removal cream.
- Use a cotton cloth to apply it on screen.
- Gently rub in small circular motions.
- Wipe clean with dry cloth.
Note: Always test on a small area first.
3. Egg White and Potassium Sulfate Mix
This is not a very common method, but some people use it to remove micro scratches.
- Take egg white from one egg.
- Mix it with potassium sulfate (available in chemical shops).
- Dip a cotton cloth and rub on screen lightly.
- Wipe after a few minutes.
It’s more useful for old or minor scratches.
4. Baby Powder Method
Baby powder also works like baking soda in reducing screen scratches.
How to use:
- Mix 1 tablespoon baby powder with few drops of water.
- Make a light paste.
- Apply on display using a cotton cloth.
- Rub gently and wipe.
This method gives a smooth finish temporarily.
5. Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline)
Most homes already have Vaseline or any petroleum jelly. This is one of the easiest methods.
Steps:
- Apply a tiny amount of petroleum jelly on the cracked area.
- Use soft cloth to spread it evenly.
- Wipe off extra jelly.
It fills the small cracks and makes the display appear smooth.
What NOT to Do With Cracked Screen
Don’t Press Hard on Display
Using extra pressure on a cracked screen can damage it more. It might break further or injure your fingers with glass particles.
Avoid Charging Wet Phone
If moisture enters through the crack and you put the phone on charge, it may lead to electric short or even explosion in rare cases.
Don’t Use Without Screen Guard
If screen is cracked, at least apply a tempered glass or plastic screen guard to avoid direct exposure to dust and fingers.
When Should You Replace the Screen?
- If the crack is spreading and touch is not working.
- If internal parts like camera, mic, or speaker are affected.
- If your phone screen is showing lines, color patches, or black spots.
- If your eyes are getting tired after short use.
Don’t wait until the phone stops working completely. It’s better to replace the screen or buy a new phone if cost is too high.
You might also be interested in: Best budget phones under ₹20,000 in India 2025 – If your current phone is beyond repair, consider these value-for-money options.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Screen Damage
Use a Good Quality Tempered Glass
A strong tempered glass will absorb shocks during falls and prevent the original display from cracking.
Use a Strong Back Case
A back cover with raised edges protects the phone edges and display during sudden drops.
Don’t Keep Phone With Metal Items
Avoid putting your phone in the same pocket with keys or coins to prevent scratches.
Keep Away From Water and Moist Areas
Even if phone is water resistant, cracks make it vulnerable to moisture damage.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore That Broken Display
Using a phone with a broken screen may seem manageable, but it’s dangerous in the long run. Not only it harms your device internally, but also risks your health – especially eyes. If it’s a small scratch, you can try basic home remedies to fix it. But for cracks or touch issues, better get it repaired immediately.
Don’t wait until the damage becomes irreversible. Take care of your smartphone like any other important gadget. After all, we use it every day for communication, work, and entertainment – let’s not take the risk with a broken screen.
