The best way to clean a TV screen is to follow tried-and-true methods that work for homeowners and vacation rental hosts. By far, the most essential bit of knowledge is knowing what to clean a TV screen with. Fortunately, there are several safe, effective, and affordable techniques and supplies.
So, know what to use to do the cleaning, following a commonsense, step-by-step guide. Then, learn how to maintain a high level of cleanliness for any TV’s screen. Of course, it always makes sense to hire an expert if you want to turn the chore over to a trusted professional. Either way, it’s wise to learn the basics of how to clean a TV screen.
What to Use to Clean a TV Screen
There are smart and not-so-smart ways to approach any project. The best way to clean a TV screen is to use one of the following items:.
Microfiber Cloth: The Gold Standard
A high-quality microfiber cloth is your best friend when it comes to cleaning TV screens. Not only does the soft texture avoid making scratches, but the cloth lifts dust and smudges at the same time. Make sure the cloth is dry and completely clean. Use small circular motions as you cover the entire surface.
DIY Cleaning Solution
Many people who aren’t sure what to clean a TV screen with are surprised to learn that there is a no-cost remedy. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and distilled water in your favorite spray bottle. Don’t spray directly onto the screen. Instead, spray the solution onto the microfiber cloth and use gentle pressure to pick up dust, fingerprints, and dirt.
Pre-Made TV Screen Cleaning Solutions
You don’t need to be a DIY genius to know how to clean a TV screen. Instead of a water-and-vinegar solution, purchase a retail screen cleaner that is intended for use on electronic products and appliances. Many come with a free microfiber cloth and include enough solution to last for a year or more.
Step-by-Step Guide For Cleaning Your TV Screen
To clean the screen of any kind of TV, follow these simple steps in order.
1
Turn the TV off and unplug it. This prevents electric shock and potential damage to the TV that can occur if you try to clean it while it’s connected to an electrical outlet, even if it is in the “off” mode.
2
Use a flannel or microfiber cloth to clean the frame of the TV. This prevents any dust from migrating from a dusty frame while you’re cleaning the screen.
3
Remove the surface layer of dust and debris from the screen by gently wiping it with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. If there is still dirt or dust on the screen, spray a small amount of cleanser onto a clean cloth and wipe the surface once more.
4
As soon as you finish wiping the screen with a microfiber cloth that has cleaning solution on it (as in Step 3, above), remove the excess moisture from the screen with a dry microfiber cloth.
5
If any spots, debris, dust, grime, or streaks remain on the TV screen, repeat the above steps until the screen is spotless. Note if there are any gouges or scrapes on the screen. You will not be able to remove those, but it’s possible to get everything else that can make a TV screen look dirty.
6
Wait until the screen is completely dry before plugging the cord back into an electrical socket. Turn the set on and see if the lighted screen reveals any remaining dust, spots, or discoloration. If so, turn the TV off, unplug it, and repeat the above steps until you are satisfied with the cleanliness of the TV screen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a TV Screen
TV screens are delicate, and it’s easy to make a mistake when attempting to clean them. The following pitfalls are common, so read through them before cleaning your TV screen.
Using Paper Towels or Rough Cloths
Standard paper towels and similar products have the potential to ruin an otherwise clean TV screen. Never use them, no matter how dirty the screen is. Use microfiber cloths instead.
Spraying Cleaner Directly Onto the Screen
This is an amateur error and can do a lot of damage to the TV unit if any of the solution seeps into the edges of the screen surface. Some cleaners are so strong that they can stain screens if they’re applied directly to the surface. Spray the cloth, not the screen.
Cleaning While the TV is On
This is a safety issue. ALWAYS turn TVs off and unplug them before cleaning the screen. Electrostatic power can shock and potentially harm you if you attempt to clean the screen of a TV that is on or plugged in. Be safe. Unplug any electronic device before cleaning it.
Cleaning in Direct Sunlight
Direct, warm sunlight can cause moisture to evaporate so fast that streaks appear, and the cloth can leave marks on the glass surface. Likewise, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can permanently damage TV screens.
Using Too Much Pressure
Use a light touch when cleaning a TV screen with a microfiber cloth. It’s tempting to press hard in an effort to do a good job. But the truth is that screens will come completely clean even if you use light pressure. Pressing too hard can cause streaks on the glass.
Additional Tips for Keeping Your TV Screen Spotless
Employ the following suggestions to fight your TV screen’s major enemies, namely dust, fingerprints, smudges, food particles, and splashes.
Reducing Dust Buildup
Preventing the buildup of dust on the surface of the screen, use an air purifier to keep airborne particles to a minimum. And don’t forget to dust the area around the TV on a regular basis.
Dealing With Fingerprints and Smudges
When addressing the common problem of fingerprints and random smudges, it’s essential to know what to use to clean a TV screen, as noted in the sections above. In this case, use a microfiber cloth containing an appropriate screen cleaning solution or a homemade mixture of vinegar and water. Never use paper towels.
Keep Food and Drinks Away From the Screen
People like to eat and drink while watching television programs. It’s human nature. Be quick to promptly clean up any food particles or liquid that lands on the TV screen. Just use a damp microfiber cloth, being sure to get liquids before they seep into the edges of the screen.
Let Professionals Take Care of All the Cleaning Chores
Don’t feel like dealing with all the hard work that goes with cleaning the TV screens in your home or vacation rental unit? Call MaidThis and hire professional maids who will get your TV screens and everything else looking great.
MaidThis helps you stay on top of home and Airbnb cleaning year round, whether you need recurring visits or just a one-time deep cleaning. Your maids will make sure every nook and cranny of your property, including all the electronic appliances, is spotless.
If you’d like to become a MaidThis franchisee, just contact one of our team members via the website link and find out how entrepreneurs all over the US are creating full-time income as owners of their own cleaning business. MaidThis operates in many states and is adding new ones all the time.
