How to Clean Laptop Screen

Whether you're engaged in gaming or working late on a project, a dirty computer screen can be frustrating. However, the challenge lies in the fact that most computer screens are extremely sensitive and demand gentle handling to avoid harm.

Whether you've experienced the disappointment of damaging a monitor in the past or you simply want to ensure your new laptop remains in top condition, this article is a comprehensive guide to safely and effectively cleaning your screen. It's important to note that the majority of the cleaning methods discussed here for laptops are also suitable for monitors and TV screens.

Best Way to Clean Laptop Screen

Wondering about the best way to clean your laptop screen without causing damage? First of all, it's crucial to avoid any liquids getting into your laptop's hardware, as this can lead to disaster. This means steering clear of liquid sprays.

A common mistake people make when cleaning their laptop screens is using any regular liquid cleaner. As a rule, it's best to avoid them altogether, although there are a few safe liquid substances you can use carefully to clean laptop screens. If you're not having much success with a dry cloth or if you've spilled something on your screen, you can try using a small amount of rubbing alcohol (for non-LCD screens) if you don't want to purchase a specified cleaning product.

The main thing is to prevent any liquid from reaching the speaker or keyboard, therefore, it is suggested to use a very small amount - just enough to remove the dirty spot. If you have an LCD screen, do not use rubbing alcohol, as it can damage your screen. If you're unsure about which products are safe for your laptop or if you're not certain about the type of screen you have, check the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning products.

To avoid the risk of rubbing alcohol dripping into your computer, lightly dab it onto a very soft rag. In many cases, a cleaning substance may be entirely unnecessary if you use the right cloth or material. Microfiber cloths are ideal for cleaning your PC, as paper towels, household rags, and old T-shirts can scratch and damage your screen.

How to readjust a laptop for cleaning?

Now that you have your microfiber or computer-safe cleaning cloth ready, it's time to learn the proper techniques for cleaning your laptop screen:

• Prepare your cleaning material with a cleaning solution, if applicable.
• Never apply the cleaning solution directly to your computer screen.
• Begin cleaning from the center, using a gentle circular motion.
• Avoid using the moist section of your cloth to clean the corners of your screen.
• Continue gently wiping the screen until the entire surface is clean and free of dust or dirt.

In some cases, gentle wiping may not be enough to remove stubborn stains, such as soda spilled on your laptop by a toddler a week ago. In such instances, you may need to use a specialized computer cleaning solution or rubbing alcohol. Remember, when cleaning your laptop screen, a delicate touch is crucial for its long-term health.

Alternative Methods for Cleaning a Laptop Screen

Sometimes, when you're looking to clean your laptop screen, you might not want to spend a lot on expensive products. In such cases, you can turn to alternative methods using household items like rubbing alcohol. However, some items can be harmful to your screen, so it's important to be cautious.

A new sponge can be a useful tool for cleaning your screen. Make sure to moisten the sponge lightly, avoiding excess water that may drip into your laptop and cause damage.

If your laptop has a glass screen, using Windex as a cleaner is safe. Some rugged computers usually have clear glass screens similar to cell phones. Spraying a bit of Windex onto a microfiber cloth can effectively clean the screen. However, it's crucial not to spray Windex directly onto the screen.

If you don't have a microfiber cloth or a new sponge, a soft duster brush can also work. While a traditional feather duster can damage your screen, the Swiffer Duster is a safer option. These cloths are made from numerous tiny polyester fibers and are a good alternative for cleaning your screen if you don't have a microfiber cloth.

If you're uncertain about the cleaning methods for your laptop screen, it's best to be cautious. You can order specialized products and cleaning solutions online or find them at electronic stores to ensure safe and effective cleaning.

Which are the Best Laptop Cleaners to Use?

Compressed gas is a highly recommended starting point for those looking to clean their laptops. This product not only effectively removes dust from the screen but also works well for cleaning the keyboard. Brands like Dust-Off�, Endust�, and Fellowes� are trusted options that can be found in grocery stores, drug stores, computer stores, and online retailers.

Cleaning kits often include a microfiber cloth and a safe spray for electronics. Some recommended brands include:

• Bryson Screen and Laptop Cleaner is an affordable and easy-to-use solution. Simply spray it onto a screen-safe cloth and wipe away dirt and grime.
• GreatShield offers a package with monitor cleaner solutions for the thorough restoration of your PC monitor or laptop screen.
• The i-ScreenClean Ball 3-Pack is ideal for daily cleaning and maintenance, eliminating the need for liquids. While professional cleaning products may be necessary for bigger spills or stains, the cleaning ball is generally effective for regular cleaning.

Cleaning the corners of a monitor or laptop screen can be sometimes challenging. Detailing brushes, such as the Oxo Good Grips cleaning brush, are available to tackle this issue. They are designed to reach into the corners without requiring liquids, providing a thorough cleaning.

These products, along with wipes and other specialized cleaning supplies for laptop screens and monitors, can be found online or at computer stores.

Preventative Methods

After you've wiped down your laptop screen, it's important to maintain its cleanliness. A major reason your screen gets dirty quickly is due to your keyboard. When you type, dead skin cells, dirt, and grime from your fingertips accumulate on the keyboard and can transfer to the screen when you close the laptop.

To prevent this transfer of dirt and grime, a good practice is to place a thin microfiber cloth over the keyboard each time you close the computer. This barrier helps protect the screen from getting dirty.

Additionally, laptops generate a small electrical charge even when they're not in use, which attracts more dust than other surfaces in your home or office. To minimize this, consider storing your laptop in a sealed computer bag or plastic bag if you know you won't be using it for an extended period. Dust and dirt can accumulate quickly, especially if the laptop is left out in the open.

Storing your laptop whenever it's not in use is crucial to prevent dust from building up inside the hardware. This maintenance routine can help keep your screen and keyboard cleaner for longer.

How to clean your touch screen laptop safely?

Touch screens, particularly those on tablets and smartphones, often include an additional protective layer that simplifies cleaning. Despite this, it's wise to treat them with the same care as traditional laptop screens.

While touchscreen laptops may not always be made from the same materials as smartphones and tablets, they are often similarly delicate. Using a microfiber cloth and the gentle wiping technique mentioned earlier are both advisable.

Since touch screens accumulate grime from your fingertips, it's essential to clean them more frequently unless you wash your hands before each use. The accumulation of grime can be significant.

Given their sensitivity to pressure, avoid pressing too hard when cleaning touch screens to prevent sensor wear or damage. It's also prudent to turn off the screen before cleaning to prevent accidental actions like sending strange emails to clients.

When learning to clean your monitor or laptop screen, it's better to be safe than sorry. While investing in a microfiber cloth and cleaning solution kit specifically for your laptop might cost a bit, it's a small price compared to the expense of replacing a damaged screen due to careless cleaning.