How to safely clean your LCD screen
- by Tanya Ryno (RSS feed) on Aug 13th 2007 1:00PM
- Filed under computers and internet

Evidentially I haven't repeated that enough in my house. Right now, I'm looking through the glare of a number of tiny fingerprints (again.)
Apple's website, recommends cleaning LCD's by turning off the computer (or display) and wiping the screen with a damp, clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Paper with water only. This works ... but only if you've never touched your screen. Basically this method gets the dust off, and that's about it.







Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
8-13-2007 @ 2:40PM
Andy said...
That, with some persistence, also removes Sharpie ink from the screen. It does not remove the sorrowful look from a toddler's eyes as she rubs.
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8-13-2007 @ 3:21PM
Lou said...
I believe the Apple article linked specifically states that you should NOT use anything that contains alcohol or ammonia. Most folks tell you to avoid anything with vinegar like the plague as well.
I've got what appears to be a "bruise" spot on my MBP screen, so last week, I took it to see an Apple Genius at the store near work and after a few questions, they told me not to use alcohol either. That's nothing to do with the problem on my screen, but let me say again: No ALCOHOL.
I don't know why, but don't do it. Apple sells these little cleaning kits that are supposed to be just the thing. I don't know what's in them but it's a much safer bet than anything Apple explicitly says not to use.
As for my "bruise", the Apple guru told me it's usually the result of more than reasonable pressure on either side of the flat screen. It was pretty clear that there were no scuffs on either side of mine, and I'm still under warranty (plus the APP) so it will be covered - as soon as I can figure out how to survive for 10 days without my MBP. Maybe I can just get used to it?
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8-13-2007 @ 3:06PM
Bob Williams said...
I'm sorry, but I can't agree with this - you should never use an alcohol-based product around your notebook. I have seen way too many burned-in swipes across screen from the old days when they had integrated trackballs and people used the trackball wipe on their screen.
Standard Windex works fine, and will not harm you screen.
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8-13-2007 @ 3:23PM
Tanya Ryno said...
It works for me ... hopefully I'm not damaging my screen. And, because you now have me nervous ... here are two other sites that agree with using Isopropyl Alcohol.
1. Geeks are Sexy
2. eHow
Please continue sharing what works for you!
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8-16-2007 @ 8:51AM
Gizmo6257 said...
I have always used Windex on all my laptops. I have done this for years, and never had a problem. It works well too.
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8-16-2007 @ 3:46PM
John said...
My firm manufactures high performance LCDs - we settled on Windex after trying many types of glass cleaners. Be careful what you apply it with! Paper towels can cause scratches - soft, washed cotton cloth is far better.
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8-16-2007 @ 9:34AM
cillaray said...
I just use the wet wipes I buy for my glasses.
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8-31-2007 @ 1:00PM
Ric Hanna said...
Wet wipes for my glasses work fine.
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8-31-2007 @ 1:41PM
seaglasshunter said...
I believe there is nothing better for these screens than Spring Water. Other waters have chlorine in them from treatment plants, along with other minerals. This is a very soft porous medium and should be treated with care. NEVER use Windex. The standard one contains ammonia and it dulls plastic on stoves and fridges so can you imagine what it will do to your screen? Go gentle... and keep food, drinks and hands off it!
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9-09-2007 @ 3:28PM
Donna said...
I have purchased from best-buy monster screenclean and it truly does the job. and it is alcohol-free
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10-28-2007 @ 8:19PM
Donna said...
I take a soft kleenex, wet it slightly, wipe gently over the screen, allow to dry. Next you will see dull looking dry spots, now get another clean ex. Now gently (BUFF) off all the dry spots, for a beautiful clean and bright screen that look brand new. I clean my keyboard with clear unscented baby wipes.
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10-28-2007 @ 8:21PM
Mama Dee said...
I take a soft kleenex, wet it slightly, wipe gently over the screen,
allow to dry. Next you will see dull looking dry spots, now get
another clean ex. Now gently (BUFF) off all the dry spots, for a
beautiful clean and bright screen that look brand new. I clean my
keyboard with clear unscented baby wipes.
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Reply