How To Clean a Computer Screen, by Clean With Confidence on YouTube. 3 min 53 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 53 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Turn the computer off and unplug it. A dark screen shows smudges clearly and cuts the risk of damage while you work.
Dust the screen first with a dry microfibre cloth or a soft brush. Use light strokes and skip paper towels, which can scratch the surface.
Mix a little distilled water in a spray bottle. Distilled water leaves fewer marks than tap water, which can contain minerals.
Lightly mist the microfibre cloth, not the screen. Never spray liquid directly on the display, since drips can run inside the bezel.
Wipe the screen in gentle side to side or top to bottom strokes. Avoid pressing hard on the panel.
For greasy fingerprints, add a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to the cloth. Keep it away from the plastic frame.
Buff the screen with a dry part of the cloth to remove streaks. Let the screen air dry fully before you close the lid or switch it on.
Tips and common mistakes
Never use glass cleaner, vinegar or ammonia on a screen, as they can strip the coating.
Keep the cloth barely damp so no liquid runs down the screen.
Do not press on the panel, since too much pressure can damage the display.
Clean the screen regularly so dust does not build up and stick.
Questions
Can I use paper towels or tissues?
No. Paper towels and tissues can scratch the screen and leave lint. Use a clean microfibre cloth instead.
Is rubbing alcohol safe on a laptop screen?
A little isopropyl alcohol on a cloth is fine for most glass screens. Keep it off the plastic frame and check your manufacturer's guidance first.
How often should I clean my screen?
A light dusting once a week and a full clean every few weeks is enough for most people.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
