How to Remove Dust From a Console TV

Cleaning dust from a television will increase the life-span of the appliance.

A television is a household staple that seems to never need cleaning: The back and the control panel may get dusted from time-to-time -- but the screen is often overlooked. Given the bright vibrant lighting, the accumulation of dust and dirt is often hard to see. Dust gathers very quickly on a television, due to its electromagnetic surface. Removing dust is an important task that should be done with care.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cotton cloth or used cotton T-shirt
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Glass cleaner
• Microfiber cloth
• Feather-duster or electrostatic dust cloth

Instructions

1. Unplug the T.V. from the wall power outlet. As with anything electronic, the use of any type of liquids -- in this case, cleaning liquids -- should only be done when the electricity is completely disconnected. Move any peripherals away from the screen.

2. Determine what type of television console it is. Knowing the type of television is important, as different models have different requirements for removing dust. Cathode-ray tube (CRT) televisions are older and heavier, with a curved glass surface. LCD -- or liquid crystal display televisions -- are flat panel consoles that use fluid and light to create images.

3. Combine one part isopropyl alcohol with one part distilled water. Use this to clean your LCD screens. Apply the solution to the cloth, rather than directly to the screen.

   Due to the fact that CRT televisions have glass screens, any glass cleaning spray can be used to remove dust.

4. Wipe the screen using a soft cloth or an old T-shirt. Avoid using tissue or paper towels; as they may leave residue and debris on the television.

   If the television is a CRT, dry wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth, or an old cotton T-shirt. Clean the screen in right to left horizontal sweeps. Regularly check the cloth. As the cleaning cloth fills with dirt, use a new one; to avoid putting dust and dirt back on the screen.

   If the television is an LCD, use a damp cloth. Do not press hard on the screen while cleaning. After using the cloth, immediately dry it with another soft cloth. Once again, do not press hard on the screen: It can cause severe damage to the display.

5. Dust the television regularly; using a feather-duster or a specialized electrostatic duster. Wipe the television several times a week. Keeping the television dust-free will help alleviate potential problems with overheating and clogged vents.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using regular water as it can cause staining on flat-panel screens

• Avoid using cleaning solvents on LCDs

• Allow the screen to dry before turning on the television

References

• LCD Cleaning Tips
• How to Clean Your flat Screen TV

Resources

• How to Clean Your TV, Computer or Laptop screen