Cleaning Your TV Screen Is Easy With These Simple Tips

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There is so much great content on TV nowadays, from the new shows on Apple TV+ to all the Taylor Sheridan dramas, and, of course, Ree's very own The Pioneer Woman! But no matter what you're tuning into, there's nothing that can spoil the evening faster than a dirty television. If you're like most folks, you probably paid big bucks for this all-important piece of entertainment equipment, only to discover sooner rather than later that your crystal-clear picture has been hijacked by dust, dirt, or greasy fingerprints. Ew!

Luckily, we're here to answer all your questions about how to clean a TV screen. After all, it's crucial to know how to correctly care for today's technologically-advanced models like LCD (liquid crystal display) and OLED (organic light-emitting diode) TVs, which are much more sensitive than old school tube TVs. Even plasma televisions, which haven't been manufactured since 2014, have a delicate anti-glare coating that needs to be treated with kid gloves.

Just like your expensive washing machine and dishwasher, your TV needs to be properly cleaned so it will last for years to come. That's why we've checked in with a cleaning pro to find out what you absolutely should, and should not, do when wiping down your modern TV. In fact, by following these tips, you can have your screen's rich colors and super-sharp details back in no time, so you can get on with binging your favorite Netflix shows!

What is the best way to clean a flat screen TV?

According to Paulo Filho, owner of the San Francisco, California-based Celestial Cleaning Service, by "following the proper cleaning techniques and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your TV screen looking like new for years to come." Those mistakes include no-nos like using abrasive materials, such as paper towels or rough cloths on your screen; applying too much pressure when wiping it down, spraying cleaning solution directly onto the screen; and using harsh chemicals or cleaners not specifically designed for electronics.

In all cases, you should always defer to the instructions in your television's user manual regarding its care and operation.

To clean the flat screens of LED, LCD, OLED, and plasma televisions, Filho suggests taking these steps:

1. Turn off the TV and unplug it from the wall to prevent electrical shocks and ensure safety. It's also a lot easier to see (and snuff out!) streaks when the screen is dark.

2. Use a dry, microfiber cloth (some are made for electronics) to gently wipe down the screen, being careful not to apply too much pressure, which can burn out pixels on modern televisions.

3. For stubborn spots or fingerprints, lightly dampen the cloth with water or a cleaning solution specifically designed for electronics. Do not use any harsh chemicals, alcohol, or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the screen's surface and reduce the picture quality.

4. If you're using a cleaning solution, spray it onto the cloth first and then wipe the screen. Avoid spraying directly onto the screen, as it may drip into the TV's components and cause damage.

5. Do not use any abrasive or rough materials like paper towels, tissues, or regular cloth as they may scratch the screen's surface.

6. For hard-to-reach areas or corners, use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove dust without touching the screen.

Can I use Windex on a flat screen TV?

In a word, no. Windex may be a miracle product great for shining and disinfecting everything from windows to bathroom surfaces, but as Filho stresses, "Windex is not safe for use on TV screens. It contains chemicals that can damage the delicate surface of the screen, causing it to become hazy or discolored."

You should also avoid pre-treated furniture dusting cloths, which can leave a harmful residue on your television. Instead, use either a homemade mix of equal parts vinegar and water, or a product specifically made for the job, like Green Oak Screen Cleaner. Just remember not to spritz the liquid directly on your TV, instead applying it first to a soft, microfiber cloth. Or, you can use Windex Electronic Wipes, which are pre-moistened with a specially-formulated solution made for screens.

And always, to be on the safe side, "test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire screen," Filho adds.

What is the best way to clean a TV screen without leaving streaks?

Using the correct cleaning products should go a long way toward eradicating irritating streaks, spots and smudges on your television, but Filho also recommends taking extra care when swabbing down that screen. "Gently wipe the screen from top to bottom in a vertical motion," he says, "as horizontal strokes may leave streaks."

But what about TV speakers and remotes? After all, they can get as grungy as screens—especially remotes, which always seem to end up covered in sticky fingerprints. If your speaker covers can be detached, take them off and vacuum the fabric thoroughly on both sides with your sweeper's upholstery attachment. If they aren't removable, vacuum the front of the covers (you can also use a lint roller on them). For speaker covers made from a rigid material rather than fabric, wipe with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.

To clean your remote, which tends to feature one of the more germ-riddled surfaces in your home, begin by taking the batteries out and then reattaching the cover. Carefully wipe the remote with a microfiber cloth lightly damped with a cleaning solution for electronics. If you notice crumbs, dust, pet hair or the like still stuck between the buttons you can use a toothpick or even a dry toothbrush to dislodge the gunk.

What's the best way to clean an older, tube TV?

Because its screen is made of glass, you can theoretically clean a throwback cathode-ray tube television much the way you would a window. But why not keep things simple and follow the same protocol you use to spiff up your flat screen TV? Filho suggests cleaning your tube television by first wiping the exterior with a dry, microfiber cloth, then gently wiping the screen with a damp cloth to remove any smudges or dirt. You can also use a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove dust from the vents and other small crevices. Let the TV air dry completely before plugging it back in and turning it on.

How often should I clean my TV?

You should keep up with cleaning your screen on a regular basis, rather than letting grime accumulate on it. "The frequency of TV cleaning depends on several factors," Filho says, "including how often the TV is used, the environment it's in, and the presence of pets or smokers. But as a general rule, I suggest cleaning your TV at least once every two to three months, or more often if needed."

Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Green Oak Screen Cleaner Spray

Electronics Wipes

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