If your computer monitor is looking a little blurry, it may be in need of a good cleaning. Over time, monitors become dirty, covered in dust, fingerprints, and smudges. You should occasionally clean your computer monitor to ensure proper visuals and improve your quality of work altogether. However, when attempting to clean your computer monitor, you should keep in mind the type of coating it has. Different monitors require different approaches. It is best to read your user manual or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information. Here are the two main types of monitors:
• Glass-coated screens – These are not as delicate as non-glass-coated ones. Newer iMacs and Macbooks have such monitors. They are similar to big CRT monitors or vintage television sets.
• Non-glass coated screens – Those can be found on most Windows computers, touchscreen monitors, and matte displays. All of those can be easily damaged if not cleaned properly.
If you are not sure about the type of screen you have, it is best to use the least aggressive cleaning method in order to prevent damage.
How often do computer screens need to be cleaned?
This depends on how frequently you use and touch your screen, as well as the overall environmental factors of the place you use it. If the area is particularly dusty, you constantly touch the screen, or you eat and drink around your computer regularly, you may need to clean it more often. For most screens, weekly maintenance is enough.
Before you begin – Since damage may occur if you are careless, we have a list of things you should keep in mind before attempting any cleaning of your computer monitor.
• Never spray any cleaning spray or plain water directly on the screen.
• Do not use napkins or paper towels to clean the monitor. They may scratch the surface and leave lint behind.
• Use distilled water only when cleaning computer screens. That is, especially if the water in your area is particularly hard. The minerals in the water may scratch the surface of your screen.
• Always turn off the monitor or laptop before cleaning. That way you will prevent shocks, as well as damage to the screen.
• Be careful so that no moisture drips into ports or buttons.
• Do not scrub and wipe in circles. That will put uneven pressure on the screen and may cause damage.
• Never use harsh or abrasive cleaners such as ammonia, bleach, or scouring powder.
Cleaning glass-coated monitors
1. Turn it off – Always turn off, or best unplug your computer screen or laptop. Let it cool down before cleaning. A black screen will make it easier to see fingerprints and smudges.
2. Wipe – Use a clean microfiber cloth (an eyeglass towel will also work) to wipe down the screen. Start at the top of the monitor and move from side to side. Make sure you capture all the dust and move to a clean area of the cloth as you go.
3. Stubborn dirt – If there are any hard-to-remove smudges or stuck-on grime, dampen the cloth with distilled water or rubbing alcohol. Only use a tiny amount.
4. Dry the screen – Use a dry area of the cloth or a new, clean, and dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the screen. Make sure you thoroughly dry all areas of the monitor to avoid streaks and smudges.
5. Disinfect housing – Use a disinfectant wipe or a microfiber cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to wipe down and disinfect the outside of your screen. Do not use disinfectant wipes on the actual screen.
Cleaning non-glass-coated screens
1. Turn off – Always turn the monitor or laptop off before attempting to clean. Let it cool down before you start cleaning.
2. Get rid of dust – Use a dry clean microfiber cloth. Start at the top of the screen and work your way down toward the bottom.
3. A non-glass glass-coated screen requires a light touch. If there are any stubborn smudges that don’t come off with a single wipe, grab some distilled water and slightly dampen the cloth. Make sure it is not wet or dripping. Very gently rub only the area of the smudge/stain. Immediately use a dry clean cloth to dry the screen and avoid any streaks. Avoid pressing hard – this may cause permanent damage.
4. Disinfect controls and housing – Use a disinfectant wipe to clean and disinfect the housing of the monitor. Let it air dry, then turn the screen on.
How to keep your monitor clean for longer:
• Dust your screen weekly. Use a dry microfiber cloth and wipe down to remove dust.
• Do not eat or drink around the computer. If you just had a snack, make sure you wash your hands before using your computer.
• Use an air purifier in your place of work to reduce the amount of dust and grime in the air.