We spend loads of time watching our TVs - whether it’s catching up with a show to wind down, playing games or dimming down the lights and firing up a movie. Whether OLED TVs, QLED TVs or LED TVs, our screens are packed with clever tech that give you bright colors and sharp images. But let's face it, dirt, smudges, and junk can build up over time, and can start to make your TV look dull. So keeping it clean is the best way to keep everything you watch stay looking its best. And the same is true for PC monitors too.
With these easy tips and tricks, you can wipe up your screen without worry and maintain its clear display.
NB: Before using any liquid or cleaning products, make sure to follow your TV or monitor manufacture’s guidelines - just to make sure you don’t damage your screen.
How to clean a TV or monitor
Cleaning your TV or computer monitor is a simple process that requires minimal effort as long as you have the right supplies. We’d recommend:
A microfibre cloth - so you don’t leave marks
Distilled water to help remove stubborn marks
Compressed air to blast off dust
Start by turning off your TV and unplugging it from the power source to avoid any electrical hazards. Then, gently wipe the screen with a soft, dry microfibre cloth to remove any loose dust or debris. For stubborn stains, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water and gently wipe the worst areas in a circular motion.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the screen's delicate surface. Once you've cleaned the screen, use a dry microfibre cloth to gently buff away any moisture and leave it streak-free.
Additional TV cleaning tips
The longer you leave it, the more dirt and dust bui8lds up, so regularly dust your TV screen and surrounding area.
Don’t spray cleaning solutions directly onto the screen. Always apply them to the cloth first.
Use a can of compressed air to blow away dust from hard-to-reach areas like vents and crevices.
Think about using a screen protector to minimise the risk of scratches and damage.
How to clean fingerprints from a TV screen
Fingerprints are a common nuisance on TV screens, but they can be easily removed. To clean fingerprints, start by turning off the TV and unplugging it. Then, dampen a microfibre cloth with distilled water and gently wipe the worst areas as before.
If the fingerprints are really stubborn, you can use a mixture of distilled water and a tiny squirt of mild dish soap. Just be sure to rinse the cloth thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture. TV screens don’t like getting wet!
How to clean a TV screen without leaving streaks
Streaks can seriously mess with the clarity of your TV screen. That’s why it’s so important to use a microfibre cloth to buff away any moisture and prevent streaks. Kitchen towels or even cloths can leave even more material on your screen and can also be too rough - so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Additionally, be mindful of the cleaning solution you use. If you need to use any at all, go for very mild options like distilled water or a vinegar-water mixture to minimise residue buildup. But as with applying any moisture to your screen, less is more.
How to clean a TV screen without using a microfibre cloth
If you don't have a microfibre cloth on hand, you can still clean your TV screen effectively using other things. Soft, lint-free cloths made of cotton or silk can work well for removing dust and debris without scratching the screen. And then there’s a whole world of screenwipes out there too.
Just be sure to avoid using paper towels or rough fabrics, as they can leave behind lint and potentially damage the screen.
How to dust a TV screen
If your room is dark, it can be hard to spot dust on the screen. But let in some light and behold. One very dusty screen!
Dusting your TV screen regularly is key to maintaining its clarity and performance. To dust your TV screen, use a soft, dry (you’ve guessed it) microfibre cloth or a feather duster to gently remove any buildup.
Avoid using abrasive materials or excessive pressure, as this can scratch the screen. Also, be sure to dust the surrounding area to prevent debris from resettling on the screen. Even regular vacumming can make a huge difference. With these simple steps, you can keep your TV screen looking clean and pristine!
What’s next?
Cleaned your TV screen? We’ve got more TV-related advice fresh out of the box. Or (for basically everything you’d want to know about TVs) our TV Buying Guide is a wealth of telly knowledge.
