How to clean a laptop screen with household products
With the amount we use our laptops these days it is not unusual that their screens collect a lot unwanted matter. Whether that be dirt, dust or food particles you are going to want to know how to best clean your screen. While LCD screens can be easily damaged, using a microfiber towel and a water and vinegar solution will work if you do not want to purchase a specialized screen cleaner from the store. Here are two ways to clean your screen – both with and without a solution.
Firstly – in both methods, be sure to not just put your laptop to sleep but turn the laptop off and unplug the charger from the laptop. Leaving it on can not only ruin your laptop but could also be dangerous to your health.
- Cleaning with a Microfiber towel
This type of cloth is made with a material that is very soft and does not produce lint. Do not use a washcloth or paper products as they can scratch the screen. With the microfiber towel gently wipe the screen without exerting too much pressure. Try to wipe in a circular motion as that will help to lift some of the more difficult spots to get to. Don’t scrub the screen as this can cause damage. If the laptop frame, around the screen, is dirty you can then clean this with a household cleaning solution and a paper towel.
- With a cleaning solution
Plain distilled water will work best as this has no chemicals. If heavier cleaning is needed you can use a mix of plain white vinegar (not apple cider) and distilled water (this is better than tap water). Place the solution in an atomizer bottle – the type that sprays a fine mist like a perfume bottle – then apply it to the microfiber cloth. Be sure that you don’t soak the cloth but just get it moist. Wipe the screen in a circular motion with gentle pressure. You may need to go over the screen a few times to remove all the dirt, dust and any smudges.
Some tips on what not to do:
- Never directly wet the screen or use a soaked cloth as this ups the chances of getting water into the machine and thus causing it damage.
- Do not use regular cleaning supplies – this includes window or all-purpose cleaner or soap of any kind. Only use the vinegar mixture as outlined above or a solution specifically made to clean screens.
- Never push too hard on the screen – Scrubbing the screen can permanently cause damage.
Using the above advice, you should be able to effectively clean your laptop screen without causing any damage.