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Learning how to clean TV screens properly is important. Not only will it help keep your home tidy, but it will also ensure that you and other viewers are able to enjoy a crisp and streak-free picture when watching your favorite movie or show. It is also important to note that there are special considerations to keep in mind when cleaning electronics like a television. It is very easy to damage the anti-glare coating or various other sensitive components that make up each model, which can result in permanent damage to your television. The following how-tos explain the best methods for cleaning every TV in your home.
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How to Clean Plasma, LCD, LED, OLED TV Screens
People often ask, “Can you use glass cleaner on a TV?” The short answer to this is no. Glass cleaner is made with ammonia and alcohol, among other chemicals, which can damage the screen. The truth is, all you really need is water and a microfiber cloth. Follow the steps below to learn how to clean a flat screen TV without damaging it.
SUPPLIES
– Microfiber cloths
– TV screen cleaner (optional)
STEP 1: Turn off and unplug the TV.
If you want to know how to clean a TV screen without streaks, turning off the unit before you start working is an important first step. When the TV is off, the screen is darker, which will make it easier to see what you’re doing and identify any stains or streaks on the surface.
STEP 2: Wipe down the screen using a dry microfiber cloth.
Use a clean and dry microfiber cloth to wipe the screen down. Microfiber cloths are soft and will not scratch the screen, unlike paper towels or tissues. The material is also ideal for trapping dust. Use gentle, circular strokes to remove dust and any other debris that may be present on the screen. In many cases, cleaning with a dry microfiber cloth will be all that your screen needs. If there are any stains or streaks, you can move onto the next step.
STEP 3: Dampen the cloth to remove stains.
If the dry microfiber cloth alone was not sufficient, dampening it with some water can also help you clean TV screens. Take care to wring out any excess water from the cloth—and never spray the screen or any other components of the television with water—to avoid causing damage or creating a safety hazard. Once damp, gently wipe the screen to remove more dust or stubborn stains. Alternatively, you could use a TV screen cleaner, but be sure to choose one that doesn’t contain any chemicals that could cause damage.
STEP 4: Use a clean microfiber cloth to make sure everything is dry.
Water and electronics do not mix, so after you’ve finished cleaning the TV screen, use a fresh microfiber towel to dry everything off. You don’t want to leave any excess moisture on the unit as it could cause damage or create a potential safety issue.
How to Clean Old-School CRT TVs
If you’re looking to clean an old tube television, the best way to clean a TV screen may look a bit different from what is outlined above. Because the screens on these models are made from glass, they can hold up better to a few more cleaning products, such as alcohol, that you shouldn’t use with flat screen TVs.
SUPPLIES
– Microfiber cloths
– Rubbing alcohol
STEP 1: Turn off and unplug the TV.
Before you start to clean a TV screen, power off the unit and unplug it from the wall. This will prevent the possibility of electrocution and will also make it easier to see what you’re doing and to ensure that you leave the screen streak-free.
STEP 2: Wipe down the screen using a dry microfiber cloth.
Once the television has been unplugged from the wall, use a clean and dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the screen and remove dust and any other loose debris.
STEP 3: Wipe the screen down using a microfiber towel and water or a rubbing alcohol solution.
Because the screen is made from glass, it is safe to use a little rubbing alcohol, as opposed to just water, when you’re looking for how to clean fingerprints off of a TV. Make a DIY cleaning solution with rubbing alcohol and water in a 1:1 ratio. Dampen a clean microfiber cloth with the solution and squeeze out any excess liquid. Use the damp cloth to wipe down the screen, gently scrubbing any stuck-on messes. You can also wipe down the top and side panels of the television with the cleaning solution.
STEP 4: Use a clean microfiber cloth to make sure everything is dry.
As with flat screen televisions, it is important to make sure everything is dry. Wipe the screen and other components down using a clean and dry microfiber towel and wait at least another 15 minutes for the television to air-dry fully before powering it on.
How to Clean Your Remote Control
When you think about how frequently you and others pick up the remote control, cleaning it regularly to remove germs should be a no-brainer. Before you dive into the steps outlined below to clean these devices, keep in mind that each model can vary. If in doubt, check with the directions from the manufacturer before attempting to clean your remotes.
SUPPLIES
– Microfiber cloths
– Rubbing alcohol
– Cotton swabs
STEP 1: Remove the batteries and loosen trapped debris.
Start by removing the batteries so you don’t accidentally turn on the television or make any changes to your settings. Once the batteries are out, turn the remote over (with the buttons facing down) and give it a few firm taps. This will help to loosen and dislodge crumbs and other debris. Hold the remote over a sink or a sheet of newspaper for this step to avoid dropping the crumbs on your floor.
STEP 2: Make a cleaning solution with water and alcohol and use it to wipe down the remote.
Make a cleaning solution using equal parts rubbing alcohol and water. Dampen a clean microfiber towel with the solution, and squeeze out any excess liquid. Use the damp cloth to wipe down all sides of the remote. Dip a cotton swab in the alcohol and water solution and use it to clean around the buttons.
STEP 3: Dry the remote, and put the batteries back in.
Finally, use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the remote. If it feels at all damp, allow it to air-dry completely before putting the batteries back in and using it.
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Final Thoughts
When cleaning a modern flatscreen TV, remember that you should never use harsh chemicals. Ammonia and alcohol can damage the sensitive components that make up the screen, strip away coatings, and more. Instead, learning how to clean a TV typically requires just a soft cloth and a little bit of water. After you clean your television screen, don’t forget to also give the remote control a good wipe down to remove germs and bacteria that could be hiding.