- You should never use anything that might scratch the monitor, such as paper towels or newspapers. Instead, use a soft, lint-free cloth. If you can afford it, a cleaning kit for computer monitors and television sets will include a special cloth to use on the glass. If you cannot afford this type of kit, soft cotton cloths, such as an old T-shirt or a piece of well-worn flannel, will work well. Avoid cleaning products containing alcohol, ammonia and other harsh chemicals that might yellow or cause spots on the screen. Even tap water might contain minerals that will spot or discolor the screen. Instead, purchase an alcohol-free cleaner made especially for computer monitors. You can also use plain, distilled water or a half-and-half mixture of distilled water and white vinegar.
- It is a good idea to turn off and unplug the monitor before you clean the screen. Start by gently wiping it free of dust and loose dirt. Be careful not to rub the screen too hard, and do not rub it in a circular motion. Doing so can cause the dirt and dust to scratch the screen. Gently dust it with a clean, dry cloth. Then dampen a cloth with cleaning solution and gently wipe away fingerprints, smudges and smears.
