How to Clean a Flat Screen Monitor
Level of difficulty: Easy
Computer monitor cleaning is important in prolonging the life of a computer. Grime, dust, food, dirt, and other such materials can accumulate on the machine and could result in long-term damage when they are left to stay. Flat screen monitors are also referred to as LCD monitors. Unlike CRT monitors, LCD monitors are more sensitive and could be damaged and scratched easily that is why they need special care when it comes to cleaning them. The same is true with the LCD television.
Materials Needed:- Lint cloth or dust cloth used in cleaning spectacles
- a can of compressed air
- water
- vinegar
Step 1
The first step to cleaning a flat screen monitor involves turning the computer off. The computer’s fan does not need to be working while cleaning the monitor. Additionally, when the screen is black, it is easier to find the areas with oil or dirt.
Step 2
The next step includes wiping the dust off using a dust or lint cloth utilized in cleaning eyeglasses. Using tissue paper is not recommended because it commonly leaves residues. The usage of paper towels and rugs should also be avoided when wiping the LCD monitor because they are non-ultrasoft materials that could easily leave scratches on the screen. When the dirt or oil is not completely removed by the dry lint cloth, avoid pressing hard on the screen. Directly pushing on the LCD monitor may result in the burning out of the pixels. A can of compressed air may also be employed in the removal of stubborn particles.
Step 3
Thirdly, put a few droplets of water onto the dust cloth and slowly wipe across the screen in a circling motion just as it is when cleaning the car windshields. Often times, plain water does the job of removing grime.
Step 4
If plain water does not remove the oil or dust, sprinkle the dust cloth with a mixture of water and white vinegar and then wipe across the computer screen. The composition of the said mixture is one part water and one part vinegar. On the other hand, there are a number of companies that market spray bottles of special cleaners intended for LCD monitors. The usage of cleaning products containing ammonia, toluene, methyl chloride, acetone, or ethyl acid should always be avoided as these chemicals could react with the LCD screen’s materials. Using such substances could also result in the yellowing of the screen and other sorts of damages.
Step 5
Lastly, the use of brand-name or generic vinegar-based cleaning sprays is also recommended in cleaning the monitor. Just make sure that these cleaning sprays have no oil-content. Over time, the constant usage of soap-based cleaning products could damage the computer monitor. The plastic edge surrounding the LCD screen may be cleaned using an all-purpose cleaner but make sure that it does not come into contact with the LCD screen. Avoid directly spraying liquid cleaning materials onto the LCD monitor because it can run inside the LCD monitor and cause serious damage.