One of the most expensive components of a computer system or laptop
is the LCD monitor or screen. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screens
are easily susceptible to damage and scratches, so it's a good idea
to make sure that you don’t touch the display surface and that
you clean the screen correctly.
Not all types of cleaning solutions are acceptable for LCD screens.
Using alcohol or ammonia - based cleaners repeatedly may cause permanent
damage to the LCD. Over time, using these types of cleaners could
cause the surface of the screen to yellow. It can also make the screen
brittle and eventually cause cracking on the screen surface.
The following cleaners should NOT be used:
- Acetone
- Ethyl alcohol
- Ethyl acid
- Ammonia
- Methyl chloride
The following types of cleaners are acceptable:
- Water
- Vinegar (mixed with water)
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Petroleum Benzene
Some basic supplies needed to clean an LCD screen include:
- A soft cotton cloth. When cleaning the LCD screen it is important
to use a soft cotton cloth, rather than an old rag. Some materials,
such as paper towels, could cause scratches and damage the LCD screen.
- Solution of water and isopropyl alcohol. This solution can
be used along with the soft cotton cloth.
- Computer wipes. Only use these if they specifically state
on the package they are designed for LCD laptop screens. Computer
wipes can come in handy for fast clean-ups or when you want to avoid
mixing up a cleaning solution yourself.
To clean the LCD surface properly:
- Do not spray any liquids on the LCD screen directly, and
do not use paper towels, this can cause the LCD screen to become
scratched.
- Always apply the solution to your cloth first, not directly
to the parts you are cleaning. You want to avoid dripping the solution
directly into your computer or laptop.
- Stroke the cloth across the display in one direction, moving
from the top of the display to the bottom.
Occasionally clean your computer as follows:
- Use a soft cloth moistened with non-alkaline detergent to
wipe the exterior of the computer.
- Avoid spraying cleaner directly on the display or the keyboard.
- Gently wipe the display with a dry, soft cloth.
- Laptop users: If you see a scratch like mark on your display,
it might be a stain transferred from the keyboard, or the TrackPoint
(R) pointer, when the cover was pressed from the outside. Wipe or
dust the stain gently with a soft, dry cloth. If the stain remains,
moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with water that does not contain
impurities, wring out as much of the water as you can, and then
gently wipe the display again. Be sure to dry the display before
closing the laptop.
Prior to the use of any chemical agents, be sure to read and understand
the manufacturer label for warnings, toxicity, handling, and directions
for proper use.
Avoiding all LCD screen contact and proper cleaning of the LCD
screen will be rewarded with years of service, best picture quality,
and insurance against costly damage.
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