clean lcd screen isopropyl alcohol free sample

We"ve all had that moment: You"re sitting at your computer or laptop and the light hits your screen in a way to reveal an unsightly accumulation of streaks, fingerprints, and dust.

To help, we round up the most important things to know about cleaning your computer screen, whether it"s a Mac or PC. While it"s a simple process, there are a few important rules to keep in mind to make sure you"re doing it safely.

Computer screens are not all made the same, and thus can"t all be cleaned the same way. You"ll want to be careful no matter your screen type, but it"s helpful to know that displays come in two categories:Glass-coated screens: The screens on newer iMac displays and MacBooks have a glass overlay. Glass displays are a little less delicate than LCD or LED screens, and mild cleaning solutions, like rubbing alcohol, are generally safe to use on them.

LCD or LED screens:Windows computers and most touchscreens and matte displays are typically not coated in glass. Extra care should be taken with these screens so not to damage the pixels that make up the display.

To clean a computer screen, you really just need two things: A microfiber cloth and filtered or distilled water. That"s to say you don"t need a special store-bought cleaning solution.

If you"d like some extra sanitation power, an equal parts mixture of water and vinegar is safe no matter your screen type. If you know that your display is glass-coated, you can also use an equal parts mixture of water and 70% rubbing alcohol.What you needTwo lint-free microfiber cloths

d3sign/Getty ImagesTurn the computer or laptop off.For safety reasons, begin by letting the device cool down completely. Dust, fingerprints, and smudges are also easier to spot on a black screen.

If any marks remain, wipe with a lightly moistened cloth.For glass-coated screens, you can use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar or rubbing alcohol. For LED or LCD screens, use only water. Spray or lightly dab the solution directly onto the cloth and carefully wipe the screen from left to right.

Buff with a dry cloth and air-dry.If any streaks remain once the screen dries, gently buff them with the dry cloth. Before you turn your computer or laptop back on, allow the screen to dry completely.Note:Apple claims that you can use 70% isopropyl disinfecting wipes to clean any Apple product. Just remember not to get any liquid into the device"s ports or openings — to avoid this, you might want to wring out the wipe to remove any excess liquid before using it.

For the best advice for cleaning your screen, it"s a smart idea to check your owner"s manual, which provides the manufacturer"s specific recommendations. But since screens are especially susceptible to damage, there are a few general guidelines that apply, no matter the type of screen you own.

Turn off your computer before cleaning the screen. This is just safe practice where any amount of liquid is involved, but more specifically, any static on the screen could create a shock and damage the internal components.

Do not use abrasive cleaning solutions. This includes bleach (or any products containing bleach), hydrogen peroxide, or all-purpose spray cleaners. Using an abrasive cleaner can ruin the finish of your screen.

Use filtered or distilled water. Especially in areas with hard water, water containing minerals like calcium and magnesium can damage your screen or leave even more streaks.

Use only soft microfiber cloths.Even a fabric as soft as a cotton shirt has snags and uneven particles that can scratch a computer screen. For this reason, avoid T-shirts, towels, and paper towels. The exception is the Apple Pro Display XDR or iMac, which requires a special polishing cloth.

Never spray cleaning solution directly onto the screen. To avoid any risk of damage from excess moisture, mist the solution directly onto the microfiber cloth instead.

Do not wipe in circles. Wiping in circles can create uneven pressure and ultimately lead to screen damage. It"s also more likely to create streaking. Wipe in tight, Z-shaped motions, or in broad strokes from side to side.

Do not scrub.Apply gentle pressure only. Hard scrubbing can damage the internal components of the screen and could leave scratches or spots of discoloration or dead pixels that won"t go away.Melanie Weir

Melanie Weir is a freelance author for Insider, mainly focusing on the Tech Reference section, but occasionally contributing to Lifestyle and Entertainment topics as well. She is also a freelance writer for ScreenRant, and is the Lead Weekend News Editor at TheThings.com. In her spare time she writes plays for both stage and screen. She can be reached at melanie.weir1008@gmail.com, or through LinkedIn.

This is the ultimate guide to properly cleaning your flat-screen television without scratching it or causing any potential damage. Included in this guide will be the best cleaning techniques, as well as the ideal products to accomplish a brand-new appearance on your TV. This guide is full of must-have knowledge for absolutely anyone who wants their television to remain in pristine condition. As a bonus, this guide will also provide you with a detailed explanation and instructions on how to clean your TV remote control.

Nowadays, most televisions are manufactured with a soft plastic screen. As a result of this, TV screens are delicate and can be easilydamagedif cleaned with an improper solution or technique. Accidentally using the incorrect product on your television could result in permanent damage, such as fogging, discoloring, or scratching.

When cleaning a television screen, two different techniques work extremely well. The first technique focuses on spraying down a microfiber cloth and wiping the Televisions screen. Alternatively, you may spray a minimal amount of non-ammonia based cleaner onto the TVs screen and gently wipe it away. These two techniques are proven safe and will not result in any permanent damage to your TV’s screen, as long as you follow the necessary detailed instructions when performing the cleaning.

Certain products and items you never want to use on the screen of your TV since they will cause permanent damage. When gearing up to perform a television cleaning, you will want to avoid using regular tap water, wood-based wipes, isopropyl alcohol solution containing more than 50% alcohol, regular Windex, or any cleaners that are ammonia-based.

Many products that are not made specifically for cleaning electronics will harm your television. If regular tap water is used on the television screen, a visible residue will appear after the water has dried. Instead of utilizing tap water, you may choose to use distilled water combined with a microfiber cloth. The combination of distilled water with the microfiber cloth will cause any dust on the screen’s surface to cling to the damp cloth. Distilled water will also ensure that the anti-reflective coating on your TV’s screen does not become worn-out.

Though Windex is a common go-to product for cleaning many devices and appliances, using it on a television screen can cause permanent damage. The reason behind this is because Windex is an ammonia-based cleaner. Ammonia-based cleaners may cause a chemical reaction between the ammonia-based cleaner and the coating on the Televisions screen or cause clouding.

It is essential to avoid the use of any wood-based cleaning wipes on a TV screen. Wood-based cleaning wipes include paper towels, Kleenex tissues, along with any similar products. If wood-based wipes are used on the TV’s screen, there is a strong possibility that you would be left with a multitude of visible, permanent scratches on the screen. The reason why the scratching often occurs is how rough the fibers of these products are combined with how soft the screen on the TV is.

You have a few technique options to choose from when preparing to clean a TV screen. A 50% isopropyl alcohol-based spray, also known as a lens cleaner, is a simple option that many lean towards. When using an isopropyl alcohol spray, you will want to pay close attention to the level of alcohol in the spray and be sure to avoid any alcohol-based sprays that contain more than 50% alcohol, as this will over-dry the television screen.

When choosing to utilize the lens cleaner technique, you will also want to use a clean, soft microfiber cloth that does not shed any fibers. If the microfiber cloth does shed fibers, you will find that sometimes after you’ve already cleaned the TV, you have to clean it again. This is due to the small static electricity charge produced when wiping the TV’s screen, which will attract the fibers of a microfiber cloth.

Optionally, specific products are intended for use on electronics that are extremely gentle as they do not contain ammonia or alcohol. Windex makes a special electronics cleaner that works phenomenally and is highly recommended. Additionally, the product “Screen Mom” is specially formulated for televisions and is also a fantastic product.

If the television is not dirty but has acquired a collection of dust particles on the surface, compressed air may be the best option for this job. Using compressed air will inevitably eliminate the worry of causing potential damage to the screen since there is no possible way to damage the television with air. Compressed air is an easy, inexpensive, and fast way to clear any dust from the television, leaving the TV appearing brand-new.

The first option entails simply spraying the microfiber cloth down with the cleaning solution and using that to wipe the television screen. If this is the method that is chosen, you will want to be cautious of the amount of solution used. Ideally, the cloth should only be slightly damp after you’ve sprayed it down.

Accidentally applying too much solution onto the microfiber cloth and using the excessively wet cloth on the TV screen may result in permanent damage. When too much cleaning solution is applied to the TV screen, the cleaner tends to run down the screen into the bezel and any other nearby electronics.

Alternatively, you may mist the TVs screen directly with a small amount of the cleaning solution that you’ve chosen. Immediately after misting the screen, you will want to gently wipe away the mist with a microfiber cloth. If this is the option that you would like to utilize, be sure to be extremely careful to not spray too much cleaner onto the television – as this may drip onto the bezel along with any other nearby electronics very rapidly, resulting in permanent damage.

IMPORTANT: When wiping a television screen with any wipe, be sure to be gentle, and refrain from applying any excessive pressure. Applying too much pressure on the screen will result in distorted pixels.

Where can you purchase inexpensive microfiber wipes and ammonia-free cleaners? Both microfiber wipes and ammonia-free cleaners are commonly found at your local big-box stores such as Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, Menards, and the Dollar Tree.

Microfiber cloths are commonly located in the automotive aisle of any big box store, and the lens cleaner can often be found bundled in kits for eyeglasses. Alternatively, Amazon possesses an extensive assortment of microfiber wipes and appropriate cleaning solutions that can be shipped directly to your door.

This is because the TV remote is one of the most overlooked household objects when cleaning a home. TV remotes are commonly touched multiple times a day by nearly every person in a household. However, no one ever thinks to clean it. The rubber buttons trap and preserve all sorts of dirt, skin flakes, and hair.

When performing a deep clean on your TV remote, all you need when performing a deep clean is rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, which comes in a solution or a spray cleaner. Typically, you’ll find this at your local grocery, pharmacy, or hardware store as a 50% water and 50% isopropyl alcohol mixture. Combine this with a clean toothbrush, q-tips, and a microfiber cloth.

Next, use the isopropyl alcohol mixture and spray the microfiber cloth down, but you’re going to want to be sure to not overspray, leaving the cloth dripping wet, as that may cause damage to your remote.

You’re going to begin by taking the batteries out of your remote, so your TV doesn’t blow up while you touch all the buttons. Once your batteries are out, take a clean toothbrush, a motorized toothbrush preferably, and start brushing out the debris from between the buttons on your remote, starting at the top of your remote and making your way to the bottom.

If there are any tighter crevices that the cloth couldn’t get to, use a q-tip sprayed with the isopropyl alcohol-water mixture and deep clean between the buttons. Once finished, put the batteries back inside of the TV remote. You can rest easy knowing that the dirtiest part of your home is now the cleanest.

Regularly cleaning your LCD monitor keeps it free of dust, smudges, and germs. Wiping with a dry microfiber cloth is the safest cleaning option and is surprisingly effective at removing germs. You may need to use a dampened microfiber cloth to get rid of stubborn smudges and stuck-on debris, though. If you"re worried about germs, consider using a vinegar and water solution or a Lysol wipe on the screen. Be sure to check the device’s user manual first to make sure it’s okay to use liquids!

Once you see it, there’s no use trying to ignore it—fingerprints, smears and smudges all over your TV screen. You have no recollection of ever touching your the screen, and yet there they are, stopping your favorite show dead in its tracks. And don’t even get started on the dust. Now, instead of enjoying some downtime, you’re doing a forensic analysis of what must be the most neglected surface in the home.

We’ve been there. It seems like some of the most sophisticated equipment we own (TV screens, computer screens, and phones) tend to also be some of the grossest.

Clean your screen with a gentle, circular motion. Avoid pressing down too hard, even when you’re trying to remedy tough-to-remove spots, as this can do irreparable damage.

There are a number of cleaning solutions you can choose from (more on that below), but no matter which one you settle on, never (emphasis on “never’) spay solutions directly on the screen. Instead, spray them onto your cleaning cloth. Remember: electronics and liquids don’t mix.

Did we mention you never spray a cleaning solution directly on your TV screen? We did, because it’s important enough to mention more than once. Below are four effective, and easy-to-make, cleaning solutions to get your screen sparkling again. Time to choose your own adventure.

Dish soap. Never doubt the power of a little dish soap (we always reach for Dawn, but you do you) to bring about big changes. Grab a bowl, and dilute one teaspoon of dish soap for every two cups of water. Soak a soft cloth in the solution, wring it out until it’s nearly dry, and you’re ready to get that screen shining once again.

Vinegar. Is there anything vinegar can’t do? It’s even good for screens. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part distilled water. Put it into a spray bottle and grab your microfiber cloth. It’s about time to get that screen taken care of.

Isopropyl alcohol. For the cleaning power of vinegar without the temporary smell, look no further than rubbing alcohol. Just make sure to check the label. You want a product with 70% isopropyl (likely rubbing alcohol) and no ethyl, as this can cause serious damage to your screen. Create your cleaning solution by mixing 4 parts distilled water with 1 part alcohol. Get into a spray bottle, and you’re ready to go.

Deal with dust. It doesn’t matter how often you clean your house: there will be dust, and it will inevitably be drawn to your TV. Run a Swiffer Duster over the screen to get the dust out of the way without also spreading it around. Don’t forget to address the outer edges and rims of the TV as well. Dust is the last thing you want clogging up your speakers, ports, and connections.

Spray the cloth. Third time mentioning this is a charm, right? Spray your cleaning solution onto a clean microfiber cloth (and not the screen). You want the cloth to be just barely dampened; if you squeeze the cloth, no liquid should come out. Move the cloth gently in circular motions until you’ve cleaned the entire surface. Wipe thoroughly, so that no moisture remains on the surface or runs down into the edges.

Wait before you watch. Before turning the TV back on, allow it to air dry completely. Do one last spot check, and re-address any persistent smudges that might have survived cleaning round 1.

That’s it! With these tips of the trade, you’ll soon be lost once more in your favorite TV series or movie, no smudges or smears to distract you. Remember to keep a bottle of whatever solution you made at the ready—they can be great for battling smudgy computer screens, eyeglasses, phones, and tablets as well.

Before you give into your impulses and wipe your screen with whatever you have at hand, let us stop you right there. Your display is way more delicate than you think, and if you want it to last a long time in optimal conditions, you’ll need to treat it with proper love and care.

The good news is that cleaning a computer screen is more simple than you think. You only need a soft cloth, a tiny bit of water, and the most delicate of touches.

As you would expect, not all screens are created equal, and some are more delicate than others. The safest way to figure out the proper care for your screen is to search for the make and model of your device, find out if it has an LCD, LED, or some other type of display, and search for the manufacturer’s instructions on how to care for it.

If you want to skip all that, there’s an easy way to avoid making a mistake that might not only result in irreparable damage to your screen but to your entire device. According to Joe Silverman, owner of New York Computer Help, a tech repair center in New York City, no matter how much money you spent on your computer or tablet, it probably has an LED or an LCD screen if you bought it within the last three years—and neither type benefits from window cleaner or highly concentrated alcohol.

That’s the uppermost layer of your screen, which is extremely sensitive to the acidity in alcohol and in compounds like ammonia or propylene glycol. These are often present in cleaning agents such as window cleaners and degreasers. Using these liquids will corrode the surface of your screen, resulting in scratches or even smudges you won’t be able to get rid of.

Things get even trickier when you’re dealing with touchscreens. On models like the Microsoft Surface, the display is the main input—as opposed to your mouse or trackpad on a regular laptop—so it’s ultra-sensitive, Silverman says. Using a strong liquid cleaner like a degreaser or a bleach-based disinfectant can obliterate the top layer on the screen. Combine that with high pressure, and you can kiss your fancy touchscreen computer goodbye.

Another downside to newer computers is their size and weight. If you decided to splurge on a new laptop, for example, you probably found one that has top-notch components, but also a slick, lightweight design. This format is only possible if everything in your laptop is smaller and thinner. In the case of your display, a thinner screen means a weaker barrier between your computer’s guts and the elements in the outside world.

Caring for your screen is simple—it only takes a little bit of water and a dust-free cloth, such as a microfiber wipe or the piece of fabric that came with your glasses.

First, turn off your computer and disconnect the charger. This might sound paranoid, but the benefit is twofold—you avoid any chance of triggering an electrical surge, and your screen will remain black, which will make it easier to see any dirt and grime.

Pour a couple drops of water on your cloth. Forget paper towels or the sleeve of that soft cotton t-shirt you love—microfiber is your best bet. Still, no matter how soft it is, a dry wipe could always leave micro-abrasions on your screen. The moisture will also help gather dust and particles while lifting grease from your display.

Use circular motions starting in the center of your screen and moving outward, so you don’t leave any streaks. If you can see any droplets or water traces on the glass while you clean, you’ve used way too much water. Gently dab the residual H2O with an absorbent cloth or tissue paper and start again.

If you’re dealing with next-level gunk, you can use isopropyl alcohol at 70 percent or lower, Silverman says. “That percentage is very important,” he explains. “We’d only use 90 percent or higher on dummy parts that don’t have sensors, like top cases and keyboards.” In these extreme cases, spray the alcohol on the cloth, never directly on the screen, and wipe it gently.

Just like solar damage, screen damage is cumulative. The more pressure you apply, the more abrasive a product you use, and the more often you use it, the greater the damage you’re inflicting on the protective layer of your display and the delicate sensors underneath it.

Maybe you can get away with using a high percentage of alcohol or even a window cleaner on your computer screen once or twice. But if you keep at it, eventually you’ll see the deleterious effects.

“You’ll see discoloration, lines (vertical and horizontal); sometimes it looks pretty and rainbow-like,” Silverman says. “Sometimes it’ll blink and sometimes you’ll see droplets of water or liquid in the back of the screen. There’s a lot of ways in which damage appears.”

The best way to avoid damaging your screen while cleaning it is to simply keep it from getting dirty in the first place. If you have a laptop, cover the keyboard with a thin microfiber cloth before closing it to prevent finger grease from transferring to the screen. If you have a touchscreen, wash your hands often before you use it, but make sure you let your hands dry completely before you start tapping—the soapy water or liquid hand cleanser from your fingers can easily end up on the screen and corrode it.

Your phone was designed to be carried, dropped, tapped, swiped, smashed against your face for long periods of time, and stowed in the deepest corners of your bag. In other words, its screen is way more resilient than your computer’s.

Silverman explains that most iPhones and Samsung phones, for example, have screens made out of one thick piece of glass. These, as opposed to computer screens, have all the LCD layers fused together, making them much more difficult to damage. Still, if you’re using alcohol, he recommends keeping the concentration at 70 percent or lower, using a soft cloth, and applying only low pressure to get rid of any accumulated gunk there.

Be especially careful with charging ports, as contact with water (also present in rubbing alcohol) can damage the electronics inside your smartphone. Newer models often are resistant to liquids, but there’s always a threshold to how much they can withstand. And you probably don’t want to know what that is.

Replacing the screen of your computer or smartphone can be expensive, and even if that’s not an issue for you, no one wants their devices to fail when they need them the most. So remember these tips well—we hope you never have to read this article again.

LCD Displays are interfaces of human and machine. They expose to various environments, especially now that COVID-19 spreading around the world. So it"s impossible to keep a screen clean all the time. When you are going to clean an LCD display，do you have the right steps in mind？Maybe what you"ve been doing is not right！

LCD screens could have different top layers. For example, there are glass, plastic, coating, or protective bezels. Each one of them is different. Therefore, each type of screen should not be cleaned in only one way. In fact, the most appropriate way is written in product manual. Take Topway HMT070ETD-1D, a 7 inch Smart TFT LCD Display with capacitive touch screen, as an example. Cleaning precautions are as follow: Only clean LCD with a soft dry cloth. Isopropyl Alcohol or Ethyl Alcohol. Other solutions(e. g. water) may damage the LCD.

LCD screens are fragile. Before cleaning an LCD display, you should turn it off completely, disconnect it from power supply,  and let it cool down for a few minutes. This will eliminate danger of electrocution and make it easier to see dust on screen.

Don’t press down hard while cleaning, because that action may damage top layers or coating. Spray a little cleaning solution, such as isopropyl alcohol diluted with either pure or distilled water, onto a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the display in either an up and down or side to side motion. Too much pressure can compromise limited durability of even the most rugged LCD screens.

It is dangerous that an LCD display directly contacts with any liquids (especially when they’re still plugged in). A safer and smarter approach is to first wipe the screen with a dry cloth, then spray a small amount of cleaning solution onto another cloth and wipe gently. After that, wipe with another clean, dry cloth to remove the residual liquid.

Never use ammonia or rubbing alcohol based cleaners on LCD screens. They will damage the extremely delicate coating on top of screens, and negatively alter viewing experience, especially in strong sunlight.

Dust in gaps where bezels and top layers meet can cause internal damage to LCD displays. Regularly using a vacuum with a soft-bristled brush (to prevent scratching) can be helpful.

Now you know how to clean an LCD screen safely and correctly, if you find it helpful, please share this article with your friends. If there are more questions about LCD displays, please feel free to leave us a message.

Coronavirus has brought proper disinfecting practices into the spotlight. But keeping high-touch surfaces like your laptop, keyboard, and mouse clean and disinfected is a good practice all year round.

Don’t think cleaning your computer is important? Think again. Your keyboard alone could be hosting more bacteria than a toilet seat – 400 times more, in fact.

While you should always check your computer manufacturer’s specific cleaning and disinfecting directions, in general, these tips will help you keep your PC and laptop surfaces germ-free.

DON’T spray a cleaning agent directly on your computer’s surface. Spray your cleaner onto a cloth first and then gently wipe the cloth over the surface.

Dip your microfiber cloth (or a large cotton swab) into your rubbing alcohol. Wring it out to prevent drips. Gently wipe down your keyboard with the alcohol and allow it to air dry.

The same instructions apply for laptop touchpads. Simply turn off your laptop and swipe a clean microfiber cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol across the touchpad, and let it air dry.

Yes, it"s true that your phone harbors more bacteria than a toilet seat, which is why you should be regularly disinfecting the device that touches your skin multiple times throughout the day. As a bonus, cleaning your phone can also help

Ideally, you should clean your phone at least once a day by following your phone"s manual for cleaning instructions. Cleaning your device the wrong way (like using rubbing alcohol and paper towels) can strip away coatings that protect your screen. There are safer items that will do the trick.

If you touch your phone after touching a public door handle or grocery cart, your first thought might be to clean it with rubbing alcohol. Don"t. Straight alcohol can strip the oleophobic and hydrophobic coatings that keep oil and water from damaging your phone"s display and other ports.

AT&T"s cleaning guidelines suggest that you "spray a nonabrasive or alcohol-based (70% isopropyl) disinfectant directly on a soft lint-free cloth and wipe down your device while it is powered down and unplugged." Samsung has also said you can create an alcohol-based solution of 70% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, applied with a microfiber cloth.

When you have a full face of makeup and need to make a call, guess what that foundation is about to stick to? That"s right, your phone screen. And while you may use makeup remover to take off your makeup every night, you shouldn"t use it as a screen cleaner due to some chemicals that could be lurking in the ingredients. (Organics.org explains the chemicals that could be in your makeup remover.)

You can also use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the phone -- and then throw that cloth in the wash. Make sure to use a spray bottle to spritz the cloth, rather than running it under water. The less water, the better.

Since some hand sanitizers have ingredients like fragrances and ethyl alcohol, it"s best to keep sanitizer off your phone"s screen. However, if you"ve touched anything outside your home, you should sanitize your hands before touching your phone to prevent viruses and bacteria from spreading. For best results, use a manufacturer"s hand sanitizer

You clean your mirrors and windows with window cleaner, and they"re squeaky-clean, so window cleaner must be OK to use on your phone? Wrong! Some phones, such as the iPhone, have a protective coating that resists water and oil and that can wear out over time.

Using harsh cleaners can strip the coating and could leave your phone more vulnerable to scratches. James LeBeau, an associate professor of materials science and engineering at MIT, told us that any cleanser with an abrasive agent will likely scratch the surface, so those should be avoided entirely.

A screen"s scratch-resistant properties won"t get ground down by cleaning agents, but stripping that protective coating is still a problem. That"s why Apple also suggests not using household cleaning products to clean your iPhone, including bleach. Bar Keepers Friend, for example, states that its abrasive formula may harm the protective layer. Bon Ami states not to use it on glass with coatings.

They may be the go-to for cleaning your desk, but keep them away from your phone. The paper can shred, making the debris on your phone much worse. Paper towels can even end up leaving scratches on your screen.

Since many newer phones have a protective coating, rubbing alcohol can wear it away more quickly over time, causing your phone to be more prone to scratches. Make sure to check for alcohol in the product ingredients on any "safe to use" phone screen cleaners. Apple says to avoid alcohol when cleaning its devices.

Some makeup removers may have chemicals that can be harsh on an electronic screen. LeBeau suggests avoiding makeup remover and instead, using a soft cloth with a little bit of water.

This is a no-no. Vinegar will strip the screen"s coating. You could, as Lifehacker suggests, use very diluted vinegar to cleanse other parts of your phone. Android Central suggests a 50/50 mix with distilled water for cleaning the sides and back.

A variety of chemicals can be found throughout the electronic assembly and repair process, but no solvent appears more commonly than isopropyl alcohol. It is universally used for cleaning and as a main constituent of fluxes, but how much do you really know about isopropyl alcohol?

Isopropyl alcohol (CAS #67-63-0) is also referred to as IPA, isopropanol, 2-propanol, and even rubbing alcohol (more on that later). It dissolves a wide range of both polar and nonpolar soils, and is often used to dissolve and remove light oils, fingerprints, cutting fluids, flux residues, carbon deposits, and mold release. It is also readily miscible in water, which makes it an effective drying agent.

For electronic printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, you will find isopropyl alcohol being used either to clean flux residues from recently soldered circuit boards, or in PCB repair and rework. IPA is also used to remove solder paste or adhesive from SMT stencils. Maintenance cleaning with isopropyl alcohol is common for removing caked-on and burnt-on flux from SMT reflow ovens, wave soldering fingers, selective soldering nozzles, pallets, and anywhere else flux tends to collect in automated soldering processes.

Isopropyl alcohol is generally compatible with most materials used in electronics. As with any chemical product used, component compatibility must be determined on a non-critical area prior to use. The following are a list of common materials used in PCB assembly and their respective compatibility ratings:

Isopropyl alcohol is available in a large number of varieties and grades, which are generally differentiated by the amount of water in the solution and trace amounts of other chemicals or nonvolatile materials.

Isopropyl alcohol is hydrophilic, so it readily accepts water into an azeotropic solution. When you see on the label “70% isopropyl alcohol”, it refers to amount of alcohol in relation to the amount of dissolved water – i.e. 70% alcohol to 30% water. Water can be removed to form purer grades of isopropyl alcohol, resulting in what is called “anhydrous” isopropyl alcohol.

Whether an IPA has 0.2% or 50% water has little effect on the look and smell of the material, but greatly impacts surface tension (its ability to wet) and the dry time. The more water isopropyl alcohol contains, the greater the surface tension. This causes the solvent to bead up more as it dries rather than wet or sheet, which can lead to spotting. “Water spots” are particularly problematic when cleaning mirrors, lenses, and other optics.

The dry time is greatly increased as the percentage of water in the alcohol solution is increased. This can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on the application. For example, isopropyl alcohol is often used as a flux remover to remove flux residues from around solder joints. Technicians tend to prefer a fast dry time so that they can clean the electronics and bring them back into service as quickly as possible. When breaking down and removing thick, gummy, or baked-on materials, more dwell or soak time is required. Slowing down the dry time often improves the cleaning effectiveness. That is one of the reasons 70% pure isopropyl alcohol is commonly used for degreasing and SMT stencil cleaning. In the case of electrical contact cleaning, the faster evaporation time helps ensure that the flammable solvent is gone before energizing the equipment.

The general term “rubbing alcohol” is often used for isopropyl alcohol, but users looking to buy a specific grade of alcohol should avoid products labeled that way. Rubbing alcohol does not refer to a specific grade, and may even be a different type of alcohol, like ethanol (also called ethyl alcohol, CAS #67-17-5). Consumer rubbing alcohol can also contain other ingredients like denaturant, fragrances, and colorants that are potential contaminants. ASTM D770 (currently on revision 11(2019)) is the standard specification for isopropyl alcohol published by ASTM International.

As mentioned above, isopropyl alcohol is also available in different grades, or percentages of solvent to water, to fit a variety of specific applications. When deciding on the best isopropyl product for a particular manufacturing or repair process, first decide on the grade of solvent, then the packaging.

Bulk containers- Isopropyl alcohol is packaged in 1 gallon bottles, 5-gallon containers, 54-gallon drums, and even totes for automated dispensing. In most cases, a spigot can be attached to the 1 and 5 gallon containers for convenient dispensing in benchtop or workstation use. When transferring to another container, make sure the smaller bottle is properly marked with the chemical name and warning information.

Small bottles / spray bottles- To avoid the risk and hassle of pouring and labelling smaller containers, isopropyl alcohol is also available in smaller plastic containers like pints and quarts. Some have a trigger spray attachment for convenient cleaning.

Pump dispensers / dauber bottles- Empty bottles are available to make dispensing even more convenient. A wipe or swab can be saturated in the opening, which is filled with a valve when the user pushes down. This keeps the isopropyl alcohol sealed, which avoids cross contamination when a wipe is resaturated after use, causing it to draw in moisture from the ambient air. These bottles can come with a variety of features including ESD-safe materials and a selection of labels for standard chemicals like IPA.

Presaturated wipes- For the ideal mix of form and function, wipes are available, and are already saturated with isopropyl alcohol. They can come in pop-up tubs where the wipes are pulled up from the top, plastic boxes or pouches that reduce linting caused by wipe perforations, and even individually wrapped packages. The individually wrapped wipes are perfect for field maintenance because they fit neatly in a tool box.

Although isopropyl alcohol is generally considered safe if handled properly, it is a flammable solvent, so precautions need to be taken to prevent a dangerous situation from developing.

Storage- because isopropyl alcohol is very flammable, it needs to be stored in a closed container in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources like heat, sparks and flames. It has an NFPA rating of 3, so it should be stored in a cabinet or room designed for that type of hazardous material. If solvent is transferred to another container, make sure it is marked with the chemical name and required warning information.

Personal protection equipment- isopropyl alcohol has a tendency to defatten the skin, which means it draws out the protective oils from the skin and can lead to dermatitis if improperly handled. Gloves made of nitrile or other solvent-resistant materials should be worn. Glasses or even a face shield should be worn if the user is spraying an IPA product, or if splashing could occur. Respirators can be used if ventilation is not adequate enough to avoid breathing in a high concentration of vapors.

Disposal- isopropyl alcohol needs to be disposed of as a hazardous liquid according to state and local requirements. It certainly cannot be flushed down the drain, and additional disposal requirements may need to be followed depending on the soils dissolved in the waste material.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)- The central resource for all safety requirements is the SDS, which should be readily available wherever isopropyl alcohol is used.

Is it any wonder isopropyl alcohol can be found in all corners of electronic PCB assembly, rework and repair operations? It is effective, reasonably priced, and safe if handled properly. To buy isopropyl alcohol in the grade and packaging that is best for your application, go to www.techspray.com.

Perhaps you’ve noticed that cleaning a display screen is not always as easy you’d assume. You’ve tried damping a paper towel with tap water and brushing it across your screen, only to be left with smudges, smears, and a few stubborn globs. Don’t worry… you’re not alone. This seems to be a common experience for the ever-growing number of digital device owners.

We would like to go over the proper cleaning methods so that you understand what works (and what doesn’t), and so you can relay that information to whoever might find it useful – whether that be you, your customers, your employees, or your father-in-law who just discovered the brand new world of handheld digital devices. The processes discussed here are helpful for nearly all displays, including touch screens and those with cover lenses.

Let’s go over the items you’ll need in order to clean your LCD screen. Be sure you have some kind of microfiber cloth and a cleaning solvent of some kind. As mentioned, you may already be well aware that the paper towel method isn’t effective, and that it can even cause scratches. This is why a soft cloth (or a microfiber cloth) will be a much better tool for cleaning. It is softer and does not leave particles behind that break away from the cloth, much like a paper towel does. If a dry cloth alone is not enough to get your screen up to standards, then you may want to apply the cleaning solvent.

Of course, not all solvents are created equal. Some of them work better than others for certain applications. Depending on the type of LCD display you have, you will want to do your due diligence. Many people will use distilled water as a solvent, as it has been known to be the least damaging to LCD screens. Granted, you can’t just poor it on there all willy-nilly. You don’t want to risk damaging any of the electrical components within the device.

You also should be cautious about using alcohol or ammonia based solvents, as they are capable of causing long-term damage to LCD screens, making the screen brittle and susceptible to cracking. They have also been known to cause discoloration issues. For best results, you should search for an LCD-safe solution. This, plus using the proper methods, will be the best for your LCD screen’s longevity. Here is a table that you can refer to in your search for an acceptable solvent:

Remember when your LCD or OLED display had that brand-new, fresh-out-of-the-box shine, feel and look? You are in the right place if your display is now due for deep cleaning.

Things to consider before cleaning or handling an electronic displayAvoid static by grounding your body and following proper ESD-safe handling techniques.

A microfiber cloth and distilled water is recommended for cleaning the display glass. Use Qtips and Isopropyl alcohol for cleaning the printed circuit board.

Although distilled water is recommended for wiping the display glass, you can use a cleanser developed explicitly for cleaning displays. However, do not spray it directly onto the display. Spray a tiny amount of the cleaner onto a microfiber cloth first to avoid getting any cleaning solution inside the display.Never spray any liquids directly onto the display.A spray is too hard to control and confine. The fluids can seep into the other display layers or surrounding components and cause irreversible liquid damage.

Only use a microfiber cloth and don"t use chemicals to clean a resistive touchscreen.Disconnect the display from the power supply and remove any screen protectors or liners.

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is widely used to clean printed circuit boards (PCBs). Use a Q-tip or soft small bristle brush for scrubbing a PCB, and never use a paintbrush.Gently rub a Q-tip in Isopropyl alcohol.

Cleaning soldering residue on LCD with Isopropyl alcohol and a Q-Tip.Cleaning residue around soldering elements is not necessary if Newhaven Display performed the soldering.

Cleaning your electronic display is a simple task. However, it is essential to consider these steps to handle and clean it properly. You should now have a better understanding of what cleaning products are safe to use, how to clean the display screen glass, how to clean touchscreens and how to clean soldering residue.

Back when you used to have CRT monitors and TVs, you could clean them with almost anything. The screen was made out of glass and nothing else. That’s no longer the case with today’s LCD and OLED displays.

The modern display is a sensitive device that requires special care. You can easily damage a touchscreen if you clean it using a rough sponge or an aggressive cleaning agent. You’ll eventually scratch the screen and damage its special coatings, and you’ll end up with an inferior device that no longer takes your touch commands. This applies to any laptop, tablet, TV, phone, or another device with LCD, MicroLED, or OLED display.

Most people open the box, take the smart TV or monitor out, plug it in, and that’s that. They ignore the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t skip reading those instructions. Some manufacturers offer specific cleaning product recommendations to be used with their products.

For example, Dell might recommend using 70% isopropyl alcohol to clean one of their PC monitor models, while Samsung might recommend using nothing other than a dry microfiber cloth. Despite general recommendations, you should always prioritize the manufacturer’s specific instructions. This will also help you with warranty claims.

Some screens, especially touch screens, have special coatings for protection and to reduce the amount of reflection and glare. Harsh chemicals will remove those coatings and even damage the material of the display. Don’t use any household cleaning agents.

Stay away from glass cleaning products and anything that contains ammonia, chlorine, and even alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is sometimes okay to use if specified by the manufacturer. Just make sure you pay attention to the percentage, which is usually 70% or 90%.

If you’ve been cleaning your TV or monitor with one of the aforementioned solutions, stop. Using them a few times might not cause any visible damage, but over time they’ll leave streaks once the protective coating is gone.

When you aren’t sure what’s safe to use, use canned air and microfiber cloths. Canned air is great for cleaning computer hardware, keyboards, as well as monitors, and TVs. It can’t cause any damage to the surface of the screen whether you’re cleaning a tablet, an OLED monitor, or an old school glass TV.

Dust gathers on the surface of your screen, especially around the edges, so start by blowing it off with compressed air. Use a high-quality microfiber cloth to move the stubborn dust particles when the compressed air isn’t enough. All you need is a light touch. Don’t press too hard on the display or you can damage it.

It’s very important to use microfiber cloth only. It’s soft enough not to scratch the screen or damage any of the protective coatings. Don’t use paper towels or tissues because they contain little loose fibers that can cause small scratches.

Take note that most manufacturers will tell you to avoid using any liquids, but sometimes you just don’t have a choice. Distilled water is safe to use as long as you just dampen the microfiber cloth enough to remove that pesky spot of dirt. Don’t spray it or splash it directly on your screen. Spray it on the cloth until it’s slightly damp.

Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the corners of the display and remove the dirt and oils from the screen. Use a light touch. Don’t press hard when you find a stain. This can cause serious damage.

Clean the back of the TV or monitor. You’ll find a lot of dust there. Fortunately, it’s all plastic, so you can use a multipurpose cleaning solution as long as you don’t touch the screen.

Instead of using distilled water with a microfiber cloth, you can opt for one of the many professional cleaners available on the market. It’s important to buy a cleaning kit or cleaning solution that is odorless and without any alcohol or toxins that could damage a TV or monitor display. So take a look at some of the best and safest cleaning solutions we’ve found.

WHOOSH! is an alcohol-free display cleaner. It’s suitable for all types of screens, whether they’re LCD, OLED, LED, or CRT. You can also use it to clean your mobile devices. In fact, this is the same display cleaner that Apple uses in its stores. It’s also completely odorless, so it won’t leave any residues.

EVEO is a screen cleaner safe to use on all types of TVs, monitors, and touchscreen devices. It’s great for removing greasy fingerprints and other stubborn smudges. Just remember not to press hard and use the microfiber cloth that’s included in the package. You can also use EVEO to clean other electronic gadgets.

If you don’t want to use sprays or liquids, try the lens and screen cleaning wipes from Care Touch. They’re individually packed, so when you need to clean a display, you always have one handy.

Care Touch wipes contain some isopropyl alcohol, but not in an amount that should be dangerous. The wipes are made for cleaning all types of screens without damaging the anti-reflection coating. As a bonus, you can also use these wipes on sunglasses and camera lenses.

The more often you clean your TV and computer monitor, the less you’ll have to deal with a build-up of grime and dust. This way a microfiber cloth should also be enough because you won’t have any tough dirt spots. So clean your screens regularly and keep them sparkling.

When cleaning a touchscreen, it is important to realize they are sensitive to chemicals, much as is a pair of glasses with plastic lenses. The cleaning kit supplied with a pair of such glasses is just the ticket for safely cleaning your touchscreen; it typically includes a micro-fiber cloth and a gentle cleaning solution and can usually be had for $10 or so.

Units are not sealed and can be damaged if liquids are sprayed or poured directly onto any surface of the device. Wring cleaning cloths of excess liquid before use on the device surfaces.

Avoid Isopropyl alcohol at concentrations greater than 70% and non-diluted bleach or ammonia solutions. The use of incorrect solutions can result in visual impairment of the touchscreen, discoloration, and damage to functionality.

Do not use any cleaning agents labeled as corrosive or abrasive to glass or plastic, including solvents (Like Formula 409), acids, ammonia, and any cleaning agents containing an abrasive.

Cleaning and disinfection are two steps. Cleaning refers to removing germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. Disinfecting refers to using chemicals, for example, EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces.

If further cleaning is needed, use a commercially available product such as Klear Screen or Glass Plus to dampen a clean, dry, non-abrasive cloth or use pre-moistened wipes designed for cleaning electronics. Avoid contact with the edges of the film or glass and the flex tail.

Note: Resistive touch screens (plastic film) have an air vent to equalize pressure on some part of one of the edges. Getting any liquid on the vent can damage the display module, so the panel needs a gasket and bezel to prevent this. An acceptable solution would be to put a cleanable screen protector over the entire screen before the gasket/bezel. See “Is there an inexpensive screen protector I can use for my display?” for more information.

• Perform highly diversified duties to install and maintain electrical apparatus on production machines and any other facility equipment (Screen Print, Punch Press, Steel Rule Die, Automated Machines, Turret, Laser Cutting Machines, etc.).

The Manhattan LCD Cleaning Kit gently cleans and removes dirt, fingerprints and smudges from most LCD surfaces, making it ideal for use with flat panel displays, televisions, notebook computers and other electronics. A soft, synthetic brush gently eliminates excess dust and debris without scratching. The bristles retract into the handle to keep them clean and protected. The non-aerosol cleaning solution safely and thoroughly removes fingerprints and smudges without harsh solvents or abrasives. A soft, lint-free microfiber cloth gently cleans, dries and polishes for a clear, non-streak finish.

For best results, spray cleaner onto microfiber cloth, gently wipe then quickly dry any excess liquid from LCD surface. Safe for frequent use on LCD surfaces to help restore and maintain brightness and clarity. Manhattan does not recommend that cleaning solution be directly applied to any LCD surface. Not recommended for use on anti-glare, privacy or polarized materials.

Like the OP, I"ve always used a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. Just now, I seem to have damaged the screen of my (Late 2013) MacBook Pro Retina by cleaning it with this mixture and a microfibre cloth.

There is a coating on the screen that has rubbed off in a patch about a quarter inch wide and two inches long. It"s very noticeable, but luckily it"s on the bezel rather than the screen proper. I"ll probably live with it, as a repair would probably involve replacing the whole screen. ($$$$)

This was possibly the third or fourth time that I"ve used this mixture to clean this screen in the few months that I"ve owned this machine. It"s really annoying to find that the most expensive laptop I"ve ever bought has a screen that can be so easily damaged, using a cleaner that I"ve seen recommended lots of times on the web and which has worked well for me in the past.

Using certain cleaners can cause marks on the screen as shown in the images below. It is best to avoid any cleaners other than the recommended options detailed.