How to Clean a Laptop or LCD Flatpanel Screen

The last thing you want to do to your laptop screen is spray any older cleaner on it. The screens are very fragile and sensitive to cleaners. Here are some ways of cleaning the screen without causing long or short term damage. 

Things You'll Need:
Laptop
Cleaning Spray
Microfiber or Lint-Free cloth

Step 1

First, start with a laptop screen cleaning spray. You can either buy some (links below in Resource section) or you can create your own. You can use a 50/50 blend of isopropyl alcohol and distilled (or even bottled) water. Even the versatile "miracle blend" of half vinegar, half distilled water would work. 

Step 2

Get a small spray bottle that puts out a light mist. You can buy these in the travel section of most department stores, just a simple empty container. Or, if you purchased your cleaner, just make sure it comes in a handy spray bottle. 

Step 3

Spray the solution onto a lint-free or microfiber cloth. You want something that is super-soft and won't scratch or ruin your screen. Make sure it is big enough for you to clean your screen without leaving fingerprints or scratching the screen on accident with your fingernails. 

Step 4

Using a circular motion, apply very light pressure with the cloth on the screen. Don't use too much cleaner, as you will leave streaks and residue on your screen. 

Step 5

There shouldn't be anything left on the screen after you clean it, so you will not need to dry it or treat it with anything afterwards. Just keep those oily fingers and dust bunnies away from your screen to keep your laptop looking like new use after use. 

Tips and Tricks 

Do not spray the cleaner directly on the screen. 

Do not use tissues, paper towels or any other lint-producing cloth on your monitor. They can scratch and leave residue on your screen. 

Sara Haley is a freelancer currently living in Nebraska with her husband and two children, along with numerous four-legged friends.  She writes for Bukisa, eHow, and her own personal blog at sarakhaley.blogspot.com.  She has written for numerous publications both online and off, and continues to enjoy sharing her knowledge and love for life with others.