Computer Monitor Cleaning and Maintenance

Any computer user will tell you that with time, every computer monitor needs occasional cleaning and maintenance. No matter how hard you try to keep fingerprints, smudges, dirt, and dust from collecting on a computer monitor screen, they always seem to get there one way or another. Besides potentially damaging your computer monitor screen, these smudges can make text particularly difficult to read, putting unnecessary strain on the eyes.

First, it's important to remember that you should always be conscious about keeping your computer monitor clean. That means remembering not to touch the screen with your fingers when pointing at something on the monitor, as fingertips contain natural oils that will stick to the screen. It also means taking care not to expose the screen to liquids by carelessly opening a can of soda close to the monitor, for example.

Day-to-day, casual cleaning of your computer monitor is also important, and will extend the time needed between major cleaning. A can of compressed air or a small dusting brush can be used at the end of each work day to remove and dust or dirt particles that may have collected on the monitor screen.

For tougher dirt and grime, a wide variety of consumer solvents and degreasers are available, some specifically made to clean monitor screens. A popular choice among computer users are tubes of wet, microfiber disposable cloths that contain a powerful, but non-abrasive, cleaning agent. It's important to never clean the monitor screen with a cloth or tissue that could potentially scratch the surface of the screen.

Be aware that if you own an LCD monitor, the screen is not made of glass like a traditional monitor, so it may require special cleaning. Never use a paper towel to clean an LCD monitor, as it can easily scratch the sensitive screen. Use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth instead. Also, never spray solvents on the screen directly; apply liquid to the cloth first.

With both traditional and LCD monitors, be careful not to let excess liquid run into the frame of the screen, as it could leak into the electrical components of the monitor. Use a small vacuum or cloth to remove any excess liquid from the edges of the screen.

As a final tip, know that household rubbing alcohol is a cheaper alternative to consumer cleaning products, and it's safe to use on most traditional and LCD monitors. As a rule of thumb, always consult your monitor's instruction manual for detailed cleaning instructions and precautions.

More information on computer monitors