How to Clean a Flat-Screen TV

While older glass-screen TVs can be wiped clean with a glass cleaner and paper towels, Plasma and LCD flat-screen TVs require more care when cleaning. LCD screens are made from a type of plastic and are highly susceptible to damage when cleaned with harsh chemicals, stiff brushes, or rough fabrics. This article will guide you through three cleaning methods for flat-screen TVs: using microfiber cloths, vinegar, and techniques for removing scratches.

Turn off the TV. To avoid distorting any pixels while the screen is on, turn off your TV. It will also help you spot dirt and dust on the screen more easily when it's turned off.

Find a microfiber cloth. The cloth should be soft and dry, similar to the kind used for cleaning eyeglasses. This is the ideal choice for LCD screens as it won’t leave any fibers on the screen.

Clean the screen. Gently wipe away dust and dirt from the screen using the microfiber cloth.

• Do not apply too much pressure to the screen when encountering stubborn dirt. In this case, follow the method described below.
• Avoid using paper towels, toilet paper, or old shirts to wipe the screen. These materials are harsher than microfiber cloths, and may scratch the screen or leave fibers behind.

Inspect the screen. If the screen is already clean, there’s no need to wipe it with a cleaning solution. However, if you notice dried water streaks, dust, or other stains, proceed to the next method to make your TV screen gleam.

Clean the frame. The hard plastic frame around the screen is less sensitive than the screen itself, so you can use a microfiber cloth or a regular dusting cloth to clean it.

Turn off the TV. To avoid any pixel distortion and clearly spot any dust on your screen, make sure to turn off the TV.

Mix vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio. Vinegar is a natural cleaner, offering a safer and more affordable option compared to other cleaning products.

Dip a microfiber cloth into the vinegar solution and gently wipe the screen. For tough stains, you can rub a bit more, but remember to always clean the screen with circular motions.

• Never pour or spray the vinegar solution directly onto the screen, as this could permanently damage it.
• If preferred, you can buy LCD screen cleaning solutions from computer stores.
• Avoid using cleaners with ammonia, ethyl alcohol, acetone, or ethyl chloride, as these chemicals may damage the screen.

Use a separate clean cloth to dry the screen. Letting vinegar dry directly on the screen may leave marks behind.

Clean the screen frame. For dusty plastic frames, dip a paper towel into the vinegar solution and wipe clean. Then, use another clean paper towel to dry it off.

Check the TV screen warranty. If the screen has deep scratches and the warranty is still valid, it might be best to get a replacement. This is because you might not only be unable to repair it but could also cause further damage that may not be covered by the warranty.

Use a scratch removal kit. This is the safest way to remove scratches from your LCD screen. You can purchase a scratch removal kit at stores that sell TVs.

Use petroleum jelly (Vaseline). Dip a cotton ball into the petroleum jelly and gently apply it to the scratched area.

Use wax polish. Purchase a wax polish and spray a small amount directly onto the scratch. Allow the paint to dry naturally.

• Carefully review the cleaning instructions provided with your screen purchase.
• You can apply these methods to clean your computer monitor as well.
• Special screen cleaning cloths available in computer stores are also an option for cleaning your screen.

• If you have a TV screen with a rear projector, using excessive force could damage the screen as they are very thin.
• If the cleaning cloth is not fully dry and still has moisture, it could cause a short circuit.