Almost all of us have reached that moment when dirt on the computer screen bothers us. It's full of fingerprints, smudges and dust.
However, we don't know how or what to clean the screen without damaging it, so we let it be. The problem is that, like other parts of the computer, they too need regular cleaning to avoid undesirable effects on the device's performance.
To tackle cleaning, the first thing to bear in mind is that not all screens are the same and, consequently, they don't always have to be cleaned in the same way. There are generally two types: glass screens and LCD or LED screens.
Glass screens: less delicate, but still requiring precautions
In the first case, they're less delicate thanks to their coating and, to clean them, you can use mild cleaning solutions like isopropyl alcohol, reports Insider. Most iMac and MacBook screens are of this type.
LCD or LED screens: delicate and requiring special attention
The second type is generally found on Windows computers and most touch screens. In this case, cleaning must be handled much more delicately, as over-aggressive cleaning can damage the pixels that make up the screen.
Precautions to take when cleaning all types of screen
In any case, for both types of screen, we'll need to take a series of precautions, as Home Made Simple points out. First of all, don't wet the screen directly. That is, never spray it with any type of liquid, as this could lead to component failure and electrical problems.
On the other hand, it's important not to use the usual cleaning products we use in our homes. Usually, these types of products are too resistant for the screen. And finally, it's important not to press too hard and to use a gentle circular motion to clean it, as too rough a movement can cause permanent damage, warns HMS.
How to clean the screen
Here are the steps to follow to properly clean a computer screen:
- Switch off the computer and wait for it to cool down. This avoids damaging the pixels when they are active, and eliminates the risk of electrocution or even fire, they stress to HMS. What's more, a black screen makes it easy to spot smudges, fingerprints and dust.
- Use a microfiber cloth. To clean the screen, use only a dry microfiber cloth and never absorbent paper or an old T-shirt, as their fibers can scratch the screen surface.
- If any marks remain, moisten the cloth slightly and run it over the screen again with fluid movements, they stress from Insider. For glass-covered screens, a mixture of equal parts glass and water or isopropyl alcohol can be used.
- If we had to resort to the third step, we should always leave room for the screen to dry completely to avoid unnecessary risks.
With these simple steps, your visual health will improve considerably and you won't endanger the integrity of your device. In any case, if you're not sure whether to carry out a step, it's always advisable to read the recommendations made by the manufacturers for each computer model.
