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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, or antibacterial wipes, are acceptable for LCD screens or computer components such as keyboards. Using the wrong cleaner or antibacterial wipes, or using ethyl alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners, will likely cause permanent damage to the LCD or computer components.
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. Use these only if they specifically state on the package that 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, as 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 the electronics of your display, 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 cleaning agent, be sure to read and understand the manufacturer label regarding hazards, handling, and proper usage.
Avoiding all LCD screen contact, and proper cleaning of the LCD screen and other computer components, will be rewarded with improved picture quality, years of service, insurance against costly damage, as well as providing a level of protection against germs and viruses.
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