How to clean a TV screen without leaving streaks or smudges
You may be surprised that what the best and easiest thing to clean your television screen with is something you probably already have in your kitchen.
There is nothing worse than sitting down to watch a television show or movie, only to realize there are smudges on your flat-screen TV. Even accumulated dust can create a veil of dirt that ruins a viewing experience. A TV screen is a dust magnet thanks to the static electricity it generates. Touching the screen leaves traces of oil behind that also attract dust particles and dirt.
Thankfully, regular cleaning is pretty easy and keeps dust under control. But what should you clean a TV screen with? It's actually as simple as something you already have in your kitchen, and consumers shouldn’t be intimidated by the sensitive screens of modern televisions. You don't need any special equipment or products to effectively clean a TV screen. You can get it done with a damp cloth or a surprising everyday pantry item: coffee filters.
“Regularly cleaning your electronic devices not only improves their appearance, but also their functionality," says cleaning expert Nicole Jaques. "Dust and grime can interfere with the performance of buttons and screens, so maintaining cleanliness is key."
Here's how to get a clean, clear screen for your next TV binge-watching session.
How Often To Clean A TV Screen
Regular cleaning will help prevent build-up of dust and grime and keep your TV-watching experience crystal clear. Clean TV screens every week to help keep them dust-free, remove fingerprints, and prevent a film or grime from settling onto the screens.
Considerations Before Getting Started
Before cleaning a TV screen, always check the manufacturer's instructions for the best way to clean. No matter what type of television you are cleaning, Jaques says televisions should be turned off and unplugged for safety, as well as giving the television time to cool down before cleaning. Before cleaning a TV screen, Jaques says to use a dry microfiber cloth to gently dust the surface of the screen.
Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners, and do not spray liquid directly onto the screen. Global television producer Samsung advises against using window cleaner, soap, scouring powder, or chemical cleanser to clean a TV screen because solvents such as alcohol, benzene, ammonia, or paint thinner can strip the anti-glare coating off the screen, scratch it, or permanently damage it.
“It’s also important to avoid using paper towels or abrasive cloths, which can scratch the surface,” Jaques says.
What You Need
- Clean microfiber cloths
- Water
- Screen cleaner designed for electronics
- Coffee filters (optional)
- Air blower (optional)
- Castile soap (optional)
- Disinfecting wipes (optional)
- Screen wipes for electronics (optional)
How To Properly Clean A TV Screen
Step 1: Wipe With A Damp Cloth
Use a microfiber cloth that is slightly dampened with water and wipe gently in a circular motion to avoid scratching the screen and minimize streaking.
Step 2: Remove Tougher Stains
For smudges and tougher stains, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water or a screen cleaner to spot-clean. Do not spray the liquid directly onto the screen since it could damage the TV's screen and interior.
Step 3: Dry The Screen
Dry the screen with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Ensure the screen is completely dry before turning the TV back on.
Do not spray water, cleaner, or any other liquid directly on a TV screen. Liquid that enters the television can pose a fire or shock risk or may cause damage.
Jaques tells Southern Living that a unique cleaning hack for TV screens is a coffee filter. “Coffee filters are great for cleaning screens and remote controls because they're lint-free and gentle enough to not scratch surfaces,” she says.
"Just wrap a clean coffee filter around your fingers and gently wipe the screen or remote to remove dust and fingerprints without leaving any residue behind," Jaques says. This hack is best used for dry cleaning. Do not add any cleaning solutions to the coffee filters.
How To Clean Your Remote Control
When you’ve finished cleaning your TV, Jaques says not to forget the remote control. “It's a good idea to regularly clean your remote control,” she says.
Here's the method Jaques suggests:
- First, remove the batteries from the compartment and use an air blower to get out any crumbs or dirt between the buttons and in the compartment.
- Take a microfiber towel dampened with a mixture of Castile soap and water to clean the remote. You can also use disinfecting wipes. Wring out excess moisture and wipe down all sides of the remote control.
- Dry the remote with a clean, dry microfiber cloth and put the batteries back in.
Excessive moisture should be avoided for best results when cleaning a remote control, says Jaques.
How To Clean An iPad Or Other Glass Surface Device
Cleaning iPads and other devices with glass surfaces is important in maintaining their functionality. For devices like iPads, use a slightly damp, lint-free cloth for cleaning.
“You can also use a small amount of rubbing alcohol-based screen wipes designed for electronics or make them yourself,” Jaques says, adding that ensuring that moisture doesn’t get into any openings is very important.
Tips To Keep Your TV Screen Clean Longer
Regular cleaning will help keep your TV screen clean longer. Make sure to dust the screen weekly or more often if it gets dusty sooner, and get rid of any smudges or stains as they appear. Avoid touching the TV screen directly. You can dust the vents on the TV periodically to keep it from overheating.
How To Get Rid Of Streaks On A TV Screen
To get rid of streaks on your screen, use a damp microfiber cloth and move it in one direction. Fold the cloth often to pick up dust and dirt instead of spreading it around.
Frequently asked Questions
Can I use Windex on a flat-screen TV?
No, Windex isn't recommended. Harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners, including Windex, should not be used on flat-screen TVs.
Can I use glasses wipes on my flat-screen TV?
Better not. Many glasses cleaning wipes contain chemicals that can damage TV screens.
Can I use water to clean my TV screen?
Yes, water is safe to use to clean a TV screen. Use a microfiber cloth and work in a circular motion to avoid scratching the screen.
