Dirt, fingerprints, and unsightly scratches can make a monitor unpleasant to use. It’s important to use a gentle cleaning method, as monitors are made with a type of plastic than can be easily scratched by rough cleaning or harsh chemicals. This article will show you how to clean your computer monitor without causing any damage, and fix scratches, if necessary.
Step One
Turn off the monitor. It's easier to see the dust and dirt when the monitor is off, and safer for you and your computer.If you try to clean the monitor while the pixels are firing you may end up damaging the screen.While the risk is small, there is the possibility of an electric shock if you clean the monitor while it’s on.
Step Two
Clean the frame. Spray windex or another gentle cleaning solution onto a clean cloth and use it to wipe the casing around the screen.The casing is made with durable plastic, so it's fine to scrub a little if you need to remove bits of grime.Don't spray the cleaner directly onto the casing, since you might accidentally get some on the screen, and some of it might drip into crevices and get inside.Clean the monitor's base, the buttons, and the back of the monitor. Wrap a corner of the cloth around your finger or a toothpick to clean out the hard-to-reach crevices.If your monitor has any cords attaching it to the CPU or power, unplug these and give them a good cleaning too.
Step Three
Wipe the monitor with a clean, soft piece of fabric. Microfiber cloth is ideal. This type of anti-static cloth doesn't leave a lint residue on the screen, and it's soft enough that it won't scratch the surface. Wipe off any visible dust, dirt and grime with the cloth.Don't use towels, paper products or other scratchy cloth to wipe the screen. These will leave lint and may cause scratches.Disposable dusting cloths, such as Swiffer cloths also work well.Don't press hard on the screen or try to scrub it. You might damage it and cause discoloration to occur next time you turn it on.If your screen is very dirty, rinse or change the cloth in-between passes. Clean gently and gradually.
Step Four
Avoid using ammonia or acetone-based products. These can easily damage your screen, especially if it has a matte, anti-glare finish.Use plain water as much as possible to wipe your screen.Consider buying a specifically formulated screen cleaning fluid. Read reviews and check your users manual to make sure which are safe for your particular monitor.For a mild homemade cleaner, mix water and white vinegar in equal proportions. Use this to dampen (not wet) your cleaning cloth.Alternately, mix vodka or isopropyl alcohol in equal amounts for another homemade cleaner.Always apply any liquid to the cloth, not directly to the screen, to prevent dripping.Don’t use anything soapy that can leave a residue.
Step Five
Consider using screen wipes. These are convenient and specifically designed for monitors.Make sure they are gentle enough for anti-glare screens, if you have one.Read reviews online or ask a salesperson to find a good brand.
Step Six
For stubborn stains, gently wipe the spot on the screen. Use a gentle, circular rubbing motion to remove the spot, whether it's sticky food residue, ink or another substance.Don't rub or scrub too hard.Be patient; it might take a few moments for the solution to soak into the spot enough to adequately remove it.To help the solution soak in, hold the dampened cloth over the spot for a little while.Avoid the temptation to spray the solution directly onto the screen if the spot is stubborn.When the spot has been removed, wipe the area dry with a clean part of the cloth.
Step Seven
Make sure everything is dry before turning on your monitor. This prevents any moisture that may have gotten into your monitor from causing damage, or electrical shock.