During daily use, you often have to clean dirty monitors such as a PC screen. An unsightly buildup of dust, fingerprints and other dirt can make working on your computer difficult. The cleaning process is simple, but there are certain cleaning methods and products that are gentler and more suitable for it. Below, discover some cleaning tips and useful information to keep your computer screen in pristine condition on a regular basis.
Which types of PC screens should I clean and disinfect?
Although it is a simple process, there are a few important rules you should follow to ensure you follow theDo not damage surfaces by cleaning. Not all computer screens are created equal and therefore require different cleaning techniques. Additionally, no matter your screen type, you should approach cleaning carefully, but it's helpful to know that there are two categories of displays. While some can be delicate, others can withstand the rigors of regular cleaning.
The screens of newer iMac displays and MacBooks, for example, have a glass top. Such glass displays are slightly less sensitive than LCD or LED screens, and mild cleaning solutions such as rubbing alcohol are generally safe to use on them. Most LCD or LED monitors with touchscreens and matte displays are typically not coated with glass. With these screens you should therefore be particularly careful not to damage the pixels that make up the display.
Before you start cleaning
The first step to figuring out how to care for your screen is to read the manufacturer's manual for the appropriate model and brand of your device. Factors to consider include the differences described above. In most manuals, the manufacturer will indicate how best to care for a particular type of screen. Do your best to avoid anything that could tarnish your monitor's reflective coating. The top layer is very sensitive to alcohol or compounds such as acetone, ammonia or propylene glycol. Such compounds are often found in cleaning products such as window cleaners. However, using these liquids corrodes the surface of the screen, resulting in scratches or even stains that are difficult to remove.
Although the following items are useful when cleaning other things, you should not use them on your monitor:
- Window cleaner
- Kitchen cleaner
- Paper towels
- Rubbing alcohol
- makeup remover
- Dishwashing liquid or soapy water
To prevent damage to your computer monitor, read this list of things not to do before you start the actual cleaning.
- Never spray cleaning products or plain water directly onto the monitor.
- Do not use paper towels or kitchen towels when cleaning your PC screen. These can scratch the surface and leave behind lint.
- For cleaning, you should only use distilled water, especially if you live in an area with hard water. The minerals in the water can scratch the screen.
- Always turn off the monitor before cleaning the screen to avoid shock and damage to the screen.
- Make sure that no moisture drips into the connections or control buttons.
- Do not scrub or wipe in circles as this may cause uneven pressure on the screen and damage.
- Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh cleaners on the computer monitor.
Follow simple steps to clean a glass-coated PC screen
One of the best screen cleaners is distilled water because it does not contain any added chemicals. You can also mix a quarter cup of distilled water with a quarter cup of white vinegar. Pour the cleaning solution into a spray bottle and save it for later. If you don't have white vinegar, mix equal parts distilled water and rubbing alcohol. You also need to prepare a lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe gently. As delicate as it is, a computer screen needs as much care as possible.
- Turn off your computer monitor and allow it to cool until it feels the same. Cleaning while the screen is on may result in electric shock. Plus, a black screen makes it much easier to see dust and smudges on it.
- Use a clean microfiber cloth or glasses cloth to remove dust from the screen. Fold the cloth into quarters, starting at the top of the monitor and wiping from side to side. Move to a clean side of the cloth and wipe from top to bottom to catch all the dust. Apply light pressure to remove most finger stains.
- If there are stubborn stains or food residue on the screen, moisten a clean microfiber cloth with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol. However, only use a small amount. The cloth should be slightly damp and not dripping. Use the cloth to wipe away any remaining gunk.
- Use a clean section of dry microfiber cloth to dry the computer monitor.
- Use a disinfectant wipe to remove dirt and dust from the monitor's outer casing, but do not use it to clean the actual PC screen.
- Finally, let the case dry completely and turn the monitor back on.
Instructions for cleaning matte displays without a glass attachment
Traditional glass cleaning products are not recommended for use on computer screens. This also applies to multi-surface cleaners. Such products may contain certain chemical compounds that pose a risk to your monitor. You should also never spray directly onto a computer screen. If you are using a cleaning solution, spray it onto your cleaning cloth first and then wipe the surface of the screen. Spraying glass directly onto a screen without coating increases the risk of pixel oversaturation. Although this is rare, possible consequences include component failure and electrical problems. Here is the most common cleaning method you can use to do this.
- Always turn off the monitor first and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. Start at the top and move to the bottom of the screen.
- Cleaning a non-glass PC screen (LED, LCD) requires a light touch to the surface.
- If the stains don't come off when dusting, you can just lightly moisten a clean microfiber cloth with water without getting it dripping wet.
- Use light pressure to wipe only the stained areas.
- Immediately afterwards, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry the screen.
- Use a disinfectant wipe to clean the display case and control areas.
- Finally, let the case air dry again and then turn the computer monitor back on.
Tips for avoiding dirt on your computer screen
- The frequency of cleaning required for a computer monitor depends on environmental factors and your usage habits. If the workspace is particularly dusty, you touch the screen frequently, pick it up to move it, or are careless when eating or drinking near the monitor, you should clean it more often. For most users, a quick weekly cleaning will keep the monitor in top shape.
- Also dust the screen weekly.
- Avoid eating or drinking while using the computer. If you've just taken a snack break, be sure to wash your hands before returning to the computer.
- Use a well-maintained andcleaned air purifierto reduce the amount of dust in the air.
