When was the last time you took a good look at the screen on your Apple MacBook? We mean a real close-up inspection - not just a glance while you're opening Netflix or clicking away on a spreadsheet…

If you're noticing smudges, fingerprints, or even the remains of the last snack you had, it's probably time to give your MacBook screen a clean. But before you grab the nearest cleaning product and start scrubbing away, there are a few things you should know. Cleaning a MacBook screen isn’t as simple as wiping down your kitchen counter. Apple’s screens are delicate, and using the wrong techniques or products can lead to scratches, streaks, or even permanent damage.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to safely clean your MacBook screen. We'll cover the best types of cloth to use, how often you should be cleaning it and whether those disinfectant wipes are a good idea. Let’s get started.

Our step-by-step guide to cleaning your MacBook screen

Our step-by-step guide to cleaning your MacBook screen

1. Turn off your MacBook

Before you start cleaning, the first and most important step is to turn off your MacBook. You might be tempted to skip this step, but trust us - it's essential. Moisture and electronics don't mix well, and with your MacBook being an investment, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Plus, turning off your screen allows you to see the smudges and dirt more clearly against a black background, making it easier to target those areas that need a little extra attention.

So hit that power button, shut down your laptop, and give it a few seconds to cool down if you’ve been using it. Now you’re ready to clean.

2. Use a microfiber cloth

Next up, grab a microfiber cloth. Not just any cloth will do—microfiber is your best bet. Why? Microfiber cloths are designed to be soft and gentle, meaning they won’t scratch your MacBook's screen. They’re also great at picking up dust and dirt without the need for harsh scrubbing, which is exactly what you want. Avoid using paper towels, napkins, or any other rough material, as these can leave tiny scratches on your screen over time. Even something that seems soft, like a T-shirt, can carry particles that might damage your display.

3. Apply a screen cleaner

Now, let’s talk cleaners. DO NOT just grab the nearest bottle of window cleaner! Harsh chemicals like ammonia or alcohol can strip the protective coating on your MacBook screen, leading to permanent damage. Instead, go for a screen-safe cleaner designed specifically for electronics.

When applying the cleaner, remember - less is more. Dampen your microfiber cloth lightly. A couple of sprays onto the cloth should be fine.

Never, and we mean never, spray the cleaner directly onto the screen. This can cause excess moisture to seep into the edges of the screen or even inside your MacBook, which can lead to all sorts of trouble, from streaks to potential electrical issues.

4. Wipe the screen gently

With your cloth dampened and ready to go, it’s time to wipe down the screen. Use gentle, circular motions to clean the entire surface of your MacBook screen. Start at the top and work your way down, making sure to cover every inch. The key here is to apply light pressure - there’s really no need to press hard. Your goal is to lift off smudges and dust without scratching the screen or damaging the delicate display.

If you come across any stubborn spots or oily fingerprints, resist the urge to scrub. Instead, gently buff the area with your dampened cloth. You can reapply a tiny bit more cleaner to the cloth if necessary, but always keep it to a minimum.

5. Dry the screen

Once you’ve finished wiping down the screen, take a moment to admire your work—doesn’t it look better already? But you’re not done just yet. It’s important to dry the screen to avoid any moisture being left behind. Use a dry section of your microfiber cloth or a separate dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the screen, removing any remaining moisture and leaving it streak-free.

This final step ensures that no water spots or streaks are left behind, and it also gives you one last chance to spot any areas you might have missed.

How often should you clean your MacBook screen?

Now that you’ve got the cleaning part sorted you might be wondering how often you should be doing this. The answer depends on how often you use your MacBook and the environment it’s in. As a general rule, cleaning your screen once every couple of weeks should keep it looking great. However, if you notice smudges or dirt building up more frequently, don’t hesitate to clean it as needed.

If you use your MacBook daily, especially in environments where it’s exposed to dust or fingerprints (like in a busy office), you might need to clean it more often. But if you’re a light user or you keep your MacBook in a clean place, you might be able to stretch the time between cleanings.

Apart from the screen, it's also a good idea to give the rest of your MacBook a regular clean. Dust can build up in the keyboard, ports, and around the hinges, so a quick wipe down with a dry microfiber cloth can help keep your entire device looking and functioning like new.

Is disinfectant safe to use?

The short answer is yes, but with some important… buts. Apple has updated its cleaning guidelines in recent years to allow for the use of disinfectant wipes on their products. But you still need to be very careful with the type of disinfectant you use.

Avoid any disinfectants that contain bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh chemicals, as these can damage the screen’s coating. Instead, choose disinfectant wipes that are alcohol-based but free from ammonia and other harsh ingredients. Apple specifically recommends using 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes or Clorox disinfecting wipes. Gently wipe the screen (and the rest of your MacBook, if needed), but again, avoid excessive moisture.

A few final thoughts…

Cleaning your MacBook screen doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right screen cleaning kit, a little bit of patience, and some careful techniques, you can keep your screen looking crystal clear and extend the life of your device. Just remember to turn off your MacBook before starting, use a microfiber cloth, choose a screen-safe cleaner, and always wipe gently.

By following these steps, you’ll not only enjoy a better viewing experience but also keep your MacBook’s display in great condition for years to come. So next time you notice a fingerprint or smudge, you know what to do.

Need more help?

Want more Mac tips? Here’s how to set up your new MacBook, how to factory reset a MacBook, and how to press control-alt-delete on a Mac.

Looking for a new MacBook? Check out our article to help you decide on Apple MacBook Pro or Apple MacBook Air. If you’d like to chat to a real-life expert, pop into one of our stores and speak with one of our colleagues. They’ll happily answer all your tech questions.