The flat screen of plasma or LCD televisions requires more care and attention to be cleaned than the glass screens of older models, for which cloth was enough to clean the glasses or plain paper. This article discusses three ways to fearlessly clean your TV screen.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Microfiber cloth
Step 1. Turn off the TV
In this way, having a dark surface as a background, you will be able to identify stains, dirt and dust more quickly, and without much effort.
Step 2. Purchase a microfiber cloth
It is a cloth the same as those used to clean glasses and perfect for cleaning flat screens as well, as it does not leave any kind of residue.
Step 3. Use the microfiber cloth to gently wipe the entire surface of the TV, removing any visible traces of dirt and dust
- Do not exert excessive pressure; if the stains or dirt are not removed the first time, simply move on to the next method.
- Do not use paper towels, toilet paper or old T-shirts. These materials are abrasive and leave a lot of residue on the clean surface.
Step 4. Check the result
If the screen looks clean, you won't need to wash it. If, on the other hand, you still notice stains or residues of any kind and dirt, move on to the next method to give your TV back its initial shine.
Step 5. Clean the outer frame of the TV
It is made of hard plastic and is more resistant to the products you normally use for cleaning. Use a microfiber cloth or whatever you normally use for dusting.
Method 2 of 3: Water and Vinegar Solution
Step 1. Turn off the TV
In this way, having a dark surface as a background, you will be able to identify stains, dirt and dust more quickly, and without much effort.
Step 2. Prepare a liquid solution using equal amounts of vinegar and water
Vinegar is a natural and safe detergent, and is much cheaper than the products on the market, specially designed for cleaning televisions.
Step 3. Dampen the microfiber cloth in the vinegar and water solution and then wipe it gently on your TV screen
If necessary, apply gentle pressure and a circular motion to the spots where you notice stubborn stains.
- Do not spray the vinegar solution directly on the TV screen, you could damage it irreparably.
- If you wish, you can purchase a special product designed for cleaning television screens; look for it in any computer store.
- In any case, do not use products that contain ammonia, ethyl alcohol, acetone or chloroethane. These are very harsh chemicals that could seriously damage your TV.
Step 4. Use a second microfiber cloth to dry the TV screen
Do not allow the screen to air dry, otherwise annoying halos may remain and undermine the image quality.
Step 5. Wash the plastic frame of the TV
If the frame also needs a thorough cleaning, use absorbent paper and, after wetting it in the vinegar and water solution, carefully wipe it over the plastic frame of the TV. Use dry paper to dry it completely.
Method 3 of 3: Remove Scratches from the TV Screen
Step 1. Check the warranty status of your TV
If your screen has a deep scratch that falls under your warranty coverage, your best bet will be to have your device changed, choosing a new one. Trying to solve the damage on your own could in fact create a greater one, perhaps not covered by the warranty.
Step 2. Purchase a scratch removal kit
This is the safest way to fix your TV screen. You can buy this tool at any store that sells televisions.
Step 3. Use petroleum jelly
Dip a cotton ball in petroleum jelly and use it to dab the scratch on the television screen.
Step 4. Use interior enamel paint
Purchase some clear nail polish and apply a small amount to the scratch to be repaired. At this point, wait for it to dry.
Advice
- The same cleaning techniques are used to clean the computer monitor.
- Check your TV's instruction manual for any special cleaning techniques.
- If you wish, you can purchase special cloths for this type of cleaning; they are sold in most computer stores.
Warnings
- If the fabric you use for cleaning is not dry enough, the moisture could cause a short circuit.
- If your screen is rear projection, cleaning it with excessive pressure could damage it irreparably.