How to Safely Clean Flat Panel TV Screens

Flat screen TVs require gentle cleaning methods.

Flat panel TV screens can act as magnets for dust and fingerprints over time. One important consideration that you must take into account when cleaning your flat panel TV is whether the screen is glossy or matte. Each finish requires a different cleaning procedure and using the wrong method can leave streaks or may even scratch your TV screen. If you are having trouble determining whether your screen is glossy or matte, refer to the user manual for your TV.

Things You'll Need

• Microfiber cloth
• Detergent-free dish soap
• LCD screen cleaning product

Instructions

Glossy Screen

1. Identify whether your TV has a glossy screen. Plasma TVs and some LCD flat panel TVs typically have a glossy screen. Stand to the side of the TV and look at it from an angle. If you see a shine or reflection on the screen, it's glossy.

2. Dampen a microfiber cloth and squeeze out the excess water. Apply a dot of detergent-free dish soap to the cloth and distribute it over the cloth.

3. Wipe the screen thoroughly but gently. Do not apply excessive pressure.

4. Wipe over the screen again with a dry microfiber cloth to remove streaks. Never use paper towels, as they can scratch the delicate coating on the screen.

Matte Screen

1. Move your hand across the front of the screen. If you see no reflection other than a shadow, you have a matte screen. Some types of LCD flat panel TVs have matte screens.

2. Dampen a microfiber cloth and apply a small amount of flat-screen TV cleaner. This is a specialty product, but it's the only safe bet for a matte LCD screen.

3. Wipe the entire screen gently. Do not apply pressure or rub hard to remove a dirty spot. If you have trouble removing a spot, apply a little more special cleaner to the cloth and continue wiping gently. Pushing hard can damage the screen's display.

4. Wipe dry with a dry microfiber cloth.