Dust, fingerprints and the occasional sticky handprint show up clearly on a TV screen, especially when it's off. Cleaning it takes a couple of minutes, but the wrong cloth or cleaner can scratch the screen or strip its anti-glare coating. This guide explains how to clean a TV screen safely, what to avoid, and how to clean the rest of the TV area.
Before You Start
- Check the manual: Your TV maker's cleaning instructions come first.
- Turn it off and unplug it: Dust and smudges are easier to see on a dark screen, and it's safer.
- Let it cool: Give it a few minutes after use.
What You'll Need
- Two clean, dry microfiber cloths
- Distilled water (optional, for smudges)
- A soft brush or a dusting cloth for vents and the back
How to Clean a TV Screen
- Dust first: Wipe the screen gently with a dry microfiber cloth in light, sweeping strokes. Don't press hard; screens flex and can be damaged.
- Treat smudges: If marks remain, lightly dampen a corner of the cloth with distilled water. The cloth should be barely damp, never wet.
- Wipe gently: Wipe the smudge with light pressure.
- Dry: Follow with the dry cloth to remove streaks.
- Wait before turning it on: Make sure the screen and frame are completely dry.
What Not to Use
| Avoid | Why |
|---|---|
| Paper towels, tissues, rough rags | Can scratch the screen and leave lint |
| Glass cleaner with ammonia | Can damage anti-glare coatings |
| Alcohol, acetone, solvents | Can strip coatings; most TV makers advise against them |
| Spraying directly on the screen | Liquid can run into the frame and electronics |
| Pressing hard | Can damage pixels or panels |
| Abrasive sponges | Scratch the surface |
If you buy a screen cleaner, choose one labeled safe for TV screens and spray it onto the cloth, never the screen.
Cleaning by Screen Type
- OLED and LED/LCD TVs: Dry microfiber first; barely damp cloth with distilled water for smudges.
- Glossy screens: Show fingerprints more; buff dry to avoid streaks.
- Matte or anti-glare screens: Extra gentle, as rubbing can create shiny spots.
- Older tube TVs: Have glass screens and tolerate glass cleaner on a cloth, but check the manual.
Clean the Rest of the TV Area
- Frame and stand: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth.
- Vents and back: Dust with a soft brush or the vacuum's brush attachment on low. Dust buildup traps heat.
- Remote controls: Wipe with a cloth lightly dampened with a disinfecting wipe or alcohol (remotes aren't screens); remove batteries first and don't let liquid get inside.
- Cables: Dust them and tidy them up. See how to hide TV cords.
- TV console: Clean according to its finish.
Many consoles need only a dry cloth. The Orbis Streamline Edge TV Console lists care as wiping clean with a dry cloth, and the Nacre TV Stand has mother-of-pearl fronts and a high-gloss UV-finished top, so a soft cloth and light pressure are the safest approach. See how to clean wood furniture and how to decorate a TV stand.
How Often to Clean
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Dust the screen | Weekly |
| Remove smudges | As needed |
| Dust vents, back and cables | Monthly |
| Clean remotes | Weekly in busy homes |
Keeping It Cleaner
- Mount the TV or place it where small hands can't reach the screen.
- Dust the room top to bottom, so dust from shelves doesn't settle on the screen afterward. See how to reduce dust in your home.
- Keep drinks and plants with water away from the TV.
Also see how high to mount a TV and how to clean a mirror.
FAQ
What is the best thing to clean a TV screen with?
A clean, dry microfiber cloth, and for smudges, a cloth barely dampened with distilled water.
Can I use Windex on my TV?
No. Ammonia-based glass cleaners can damage anti-glare coatings on modern screens.
Can I clean my TV screen with water?
Yes, lightly. Dampen the cloth (not the screen) with distilled water and dry afterward.
How do you get fingerprints off a TV screen?
Wipe gently with a barely damp microfiber cloth, then buff with a dry one.