How to Clean a TV Screen

How to Clean Flat Plasma, LED, LCD, and OLED Television Screens

1. Turn Off the Screen

   Turn off the TV so the screen is dark. A dark screen makes it easier to see the dust on the surface. Be sure that the screen is stable before you begin to clean.

2. Dust the Screen

   Use a disposable static-cling duster or a clean microfiber cloth to dust the front of the television screen. Do not apply excessive pressure because screens can crack or become distorted.

3. Tackle Tough Stains

   • Apply gentle pressure to fingerprints and smudges using a microfiber cloth to avoid leaving lint or scratches.
   • If food has splattered onto the screen, slightly dampen the microfiber cloth with plain water and wipe away the residue.
   • Immediately dry the freshly cleaned area with a clean microfiber cloth.

4. Dust Every Surface

   Dust the top, sides, and back of the TV once the screen is dust-free. It is particularly important to make sure that vents are dust-free so that heat can escape easily.

How to Clean Glass Tube Television Screens

If you have an older glass tube television, the cleaning steps are very similar. While the glass tube screen can withstand a bit more moisture, never spray anything directly onto the screen.

1. Turn Off the Screen and Remove Dust

   Turn off the television screen and use a microfiber cloth or disposable duster to remove surface dust.

2. Clean the Glass

   Dampen the microfiber cloth slightly or spray a tiny bit of isopropyl alcohol onto the cloth to wipe away any smudges or fingerprints on the screen. Never spray anything directly on the screen because it can cause damage to the components and the surrounding cabinetry.

3. Dust Every Remaining Surface

   Dust the television cabinetry top, sides, back, electrical cords, and any attached components.

How to Clean TV Accessories

1. Sanitize the Remote

   Television remotes and game controllers are some of the most bacteria-laden items in our homes and should be cleaned daily. If someone in the household has a cold or virus, remotes should be cleaned after every use.

   • Remove the batteries and close the battery compartment.
   • Tap the remote or controller gently on a table to remove any crumbs.
   • Wipe down the remote with a microfiber cloth dampened slightly with isopropyl alcohol or use a disinfectant wipe that is safe for use on electronics.
   • Use a toothpick to push the cloth between each raised button.
   • Allow the remote to air-dry and then reinsert the batteries.

2. Don't Forget the Electrical Cords

   Clean the dust from the cords and cables using a long-handled duster.

3. Clean Speakers and Components

   • Use a sticky lint roller to lift dust away from the fabric covers on the front of your external speakers if you have them.
   • Dust gaming boxes and other added components, as well.

How Often to Clean a Television Screen

For a clearer picture, television screens should be dusted weekly. If liquid spills or food splatters happen, they should be cleaned away immediately. When you're cleaning, don't forget the tangle of cords often hidden away collecting dust, speakers, gaming or control components, as well as remotes.

Keep Your TV Screen Clean Longer

• Set aside one microfiber cloth to use only on electronic screens. This will prevent the accidental application of residue cleaners left in the cloth from other tasks.
• Clean the television screen weekly so that grime does not build up making it more difficult to remove.
• If you have a vacuum with a hose and dusting brush attachment, it can be used to clean cords, vents, and solid components.