Then, wipe off any dust, dirt, and debris. Fingerprints and smudges are much more visible on a black screen. This is not only safer if you're using any liquids, but it also makes cleaning easier. Ready to get started? Turn off the computer first.
However, if you're adamant about getting a little extra cleaning power, you can try Lysol wipes or a 1:1 dilution of rubbing alcohol and water on non-LCD screens.
But if your screen has some stubborn spots, water is the best alternative. Your dry cloth will pick up particles and germs, says Button. And skip things like eyeglass cleaner, which won't disinfect. It's only made for glass, and can be too harsh for delicate computer screens, says Button. The bottom line: It depends on the type of computer screen you have, says Button.Īvoid using Windex on a screen. If you're concerned about germs, you might wonder whether you can use stronger household cleaners for the task. Instead of Windex and eyeglass cleaners, try water and alcohol. Generally, though, all you need is one or two simple electronic cleaning supplies: a soft, lint-free microfiber cleaning towel or cotton ball and a cleaning solution, if necessary, says Button. If you don't know where the manual is, many companies offer downloadable PDFs. It's always a good idea to check the manual of your computer to see what products they suggest to clean a screen, says Kimberly Button, a certified cleaning expert.
