How to clean a Laptop Screen? Be careful when cleaning a laptop screen or LCD LED monitor, as many chemicals can damage the finish or protective coating. Additionally, ensure that the fabric used in conjunction with the cleaning solution is soft and non-abrasive to avoid scratching the screen surface. In this simple guide, I cover what I personally use to clean my computer screens and monitors.
Chemicals to Use to Clean a Laptop Screen
DO NOT USE: Rubbing alcohol (in any concentration)
Although some sources suggest that 91% pure alcohol is safe for cleaning LCD monitors, I strongly recommend avoiding it. Different screens have varying types of protective coatings, some of which are not alcohol-tolerant. Additionally, alcohol can dry out the surface, leading to potential long-term damage.
DO NOT USE: Windex or other ammonia-based products
Ammonia can gradually deteriorate the screen’s composition over time, causing it to become brittle, yellow, and prone to cracking.
DO USE: Water for mild cleaning and dust removal
DO USE: A 50/50 mixture of water and vinegar
A water and vinegar mixture is effective for removing water spots, smudges, and streaks without harming the screen's surface.
Tip: Some eyeglass cleaning kits use a vinegar/water solution, which can be repurposed for cleaning your laptop screen.
Fabrics to Use to Clean a Laptop Screen
DO NOT USE: Newspaper, tissue paper, or toilet paper
These materials contain wood fibers that can easily scratch the screen surface.
DO USE: Microfiber cloths
Microfiber cloths are safe for use on laptop and LCD screens. They are often included with new laptops or can be found in eyeglass cleaning kits.
How to Clean a Laptop Screen or Monitor
Follow these steps to clean your laptop screen:
- Obtain a clean microfiber cloth.
- Gently wipe the screen surface with the microfiber cloth to remove dust.
- Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the microfiber cloth with the water/vinegar solution. Do not spray directly onto the screen.
- Using the dampened microfiber cloth, gently wipe the screen surface. Move the cloth in a circular motion to remove spots or splatter marks, and follow the grain of any streaks to eliminate them.
In conclusion: That’s how I safely and effectively clean my laptop and monitor screens. By avoiding harsh chemicals and using gentle cleaning solutions with a microfiber cloth, you can keep your screens clear and free of damage. Regular maintenance will help ensure your display remains in top condition, enhancing both the longevity and visual clarity of your device.