The Gentlest Method for Cleaning a TV Screen
Worries about damaging a TV screen while cleaning are understandable. Most flat screens are sensitive to pressure and chemicals. And since TVs aren’t cheap, you must be cautious when removing dust, dirt, and fingerprints.
The good news is that TV screens are easy to clean, and you probably have everything you need. It’s best to employ the most gentle methods and avoid using harsh cleaners, including glass cleaners that contain ammonia. In fact, using water and soft cloth is one of the safest and most effective methods.
The Supplies You Need to Clean a TV Screen
- Lint-free cloth
- Distilled Water
- Screen Cleaning Spray (Optional)
How to Clean a TV Screen in Two Steps
Before cleaning your TV, power it off and let it cool down. Then, follow these steps:
Step 1: Dust the Screen
Dust your TV screen with a lint-free cloth. Start in a corner and use circular motions until you’ve made it around the screen. If you don’t dust before cleaning, you’ll leave behind dirt streaks.
Avoid pressing too hard, and don’t use any cloths or paper towels that can scratch the surface.
Step 2: Wash the Screen with a Damp, Lint-Free Cloth
You can wash your TV screen if fingerprints or dirt are left behind after you dust.
You’ll need a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water. You can also use alcohol and ammonia-free screen cleaning spray, like Better Life Screen Cleaner. To use a screen cleaner, spray the solution on your lint-free cloth until it’s damp.
With your damp cloth, wipe using even gentle pressure, working around the screen in a circular motion. If at any point your cloth becomes soiled, switch to a fresh one. Then, dry the tv with a new, lint-free cloth.
How to Clean a Remote Control
If you want to clean your remote, start by spraying it with a can of pressurized air. The air duster will remove dirt that’s settled in the buttons.
After dusting, clean the remote with a disinfecting wipe such as Lysol or Clorox. Allow the cleaner to air dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ
How do you clean sticky stuff from a flat screen tv?
To clean sticky stuff off a flat screen tv, dampen a lint-free soft cloth with distilled water or a TV cleaning spray. Then, wipe the sticky residue from the tv using gentle motion. Repeat until the screen is clean.
Can you use Windex on a flat-screen TV?
Never use Windex on a flat-screen TV. Windex contains ammonia which is too harsh and can turn the screen yellow.
Can I clean a flat-screen TV with vinegar?
Don’t use vinegar to clean your flat-screen TV. Most flat screens are sensitive to acidic cleaners like vinegar.
What’s the best home remedy for cleaning a TV?
If you’re looking for a household ingredient to clean your TV, stick to water. TV screens are delicate, and most cleaners are unnecessary. Instead, use water and a lint-free cloth, or try a gentle screen cleaner that doesn’t contain ammonia or alcohol.
How do I get my TV screen to be streak free?
To achieve a streak-free TV, dust-first. Any left behind dust will turn into streaks. Then, you can use a soft, dampened (not wet) microfiber cloth to wipe the screen.
Can I use Clorox Wipes to clean my TV screen?
Don’t use Clorox Wipes to clean your TV. Not only is the cleaner too harsh for most flat screens, but the wipe itself is rough and will leave behind scratches.
Can I use Lysol Wipes to clean my TV screen?
Never use Lysol wipes to clean your TV. The solution is too harsh for delicate flat screens, and the wipe can leave behind minor scratches.
Can I clean a TV screen with a baby wipe?
If you try to clean your TV screen with a baby wipe, it will leave behind streaks and cause tiny scratches. Instead, stick to water and a lint-free cloth.
Final Thoughts
If you want to clean your TV without damaging it, skip the harsh cleaners. You only need a soft, lint-free cloth, water, or a screen cleaning spray. If you use a screen cleaning spray, be sure it doesn’t contain alcohol or ammonia. When it comes to TV screens, simple is best.
Also, never use paper towels or kitchen rags to clean your screen, as they can leave behind scratches.