To safely clean a monitor screen, follow these proven steps: How to clean
- Power off and unplug the monitor. This helps prevent short circuits and makes smudges easier to see.
- Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. Avoid paper towels, tissue, or rough fabrics that can scratch the screen.
- If needed, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water or a cleaning solution designed for electronics. Never spray liquid directly onto the screen; spray onto the cloth instead.
- Gently wipe the screen in a circular or horizontal/vertical motion with minimal pressure. Focus on fingerprints and smudges, but avoid pressing hard on the surface.
- Dry the screen with a dry section of the microfiber cloth to remove any moisture and prevent streaks.
- Wipe the bezels and the stand to remove dust, then reconnect and power on.
What to avoid
- Do not use household cleaners containing ammonia, alcohol, or vinegar, as these can damage coatings.
- Do not spray liquids directly onto the screen or onto any openings.
- Do not use abrasive materials, harsh microfiber, or paper towels that can scratch or leave residues.
- Do not apply excessive moisture or let liquid pool at the edges of the screen.
Tips by device type
- For LCD/OLED panels, use a microfiber cloth and distilled water or electronics-safe cleaners; spray onto the cloth, not the screen, and avoid aggressive scrubbing.
- For sensitive gaming or professional monitors, check the manufacturer’s guidelines, as some screens have coatings that require extra care.
If you’d like, share your monitor model and the type of smudges you’re dealing with (fingerprints, dust, oily residue), and the answer can be tailored to minimize streaks and protect any special coatings.
