Can You Use Windex To Clean Laptop Screen

Recently someone asked me if it was okay to spray Windex on her monitor. I think my shriek of horror startled her. Information technology is NOT okay to spray Windex on a monitor, nor anything else. In fact, when it comes to cleaning an LCD screen, there'southward a correct style and a wrong way. Let's focus on the right manner (natch).

For starters, turn your monitor off. In fact, if yous desire to eliminate any chance of shock or other electrical damage, unplug it birthday. (I really don't retrieve this is necessary, only better safe than pitiful.) In that location will be some moisture involved in this cleaning, and the last thing you want is for liquid to come up into contact with anything powered.

Next, notice a make clean, soft textile (paper towel volition exercise, simply information technology's far from the best choice), then dampen it with water. Don't soak information technology–in that location should be no dripping to speak of–merely become it moist. And don't use annihilation other than water. Ammonia- and alcohol-based cleaners tin can ruin an LCD. If your screen is seriously gunked up, and plain water doesn't get the job done, here's a homebrow option: create a 50/50 solution of distilled water and white vinegar.

If yous make up one's mind to apply a spray bottle, brand certain y'all don't spray it directly on the screen. That'due south considering drops tin can seep in effectually the bezel (and/or country in the keyboard), and, once again, moisture and electronics don't mix. What you tin practise is spray your water or solution onto the cloth, then wipe the screen. Utilise a circular motion, which is best for eliminating streaks, and apply only light pressure level.

Finally, allow the screen air-dry for a few minutes, or gently wipe information technology dry with a fresh fabric. Only when you lot're admittedly certain it's 100 percent dry, plug it back in and turn it on. And in that location y'all get: good as new!

Now go along those smudgy fingers of yours off that precious LCD!

Contributing Editor Rick Broida writes about business concern and consumer engineering science. Ask for assist with your PC hassles at hasslefree@pcworld.com, or try the treasure trove of helpful folks in the PC World Community Forums. Sign up to accept the Hassle-Free PC newsletter e-mailed to you each week.