Five essential rules for cleaning screens safely

Unfortunately, many screens are damaged through incorrect cleaning practices rather than everyday use. Scratches, damaged coatings, streaking and even electrical faults can occur when the wrong products or techniques are used. For cleaning teams and maintenance personnel, understanding how to clean screens safely can help extend equipment life and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Follow these five essential rules to keep screens clean, clear and fully operational.

1. Never spray cleaning solution directly onto the screen

One of the most common mistakes is spraying cleaning products directly onto the display surface. While it may seem quicker, excess liquid can run down the screen and seep into edges, ports, buttons or internal components.

Even a small amount of moisture entering the screen housing can lead to corrosion, electrical faults or premature equipment failure. This is particularly important in industrial environments where screens may be integrated into expensive machinery or control systems.

Instead, apply the cleaning solution to a cloth first. The cloth should be lightly dampened rather than saturated. This provides greater control over the amount of liquid being used and significantly reduces the risk of moisture damage.

2. Don't rub too hard

Modern screens are durable, but they are not designed to withstand excessive pressure during cleaning.

Applying too much force can damage protective coatings, create pressure marks on LCD displays and affect the performance of sensitive touchscreen surfaces. In busy workplaces where screens accumulate fingerprints, dust and grease, it can be tempting to scrub stubborn marks away. However, aggressive cleaning often causes more harm than good.

Use gentle circular motions and allow the cleaning solution to loosen dirt and contamination. If marks remain, repeat the cleaning process rather than increasing the pressure.

3. Use only screen-safe cleaning products

Not all cleaning chemicals are suitable for electronic displays. Products containing alcohol, ammonia or harsh solvents can gradually damage anti-glare coatings, protective films and specialised finishes found on many modern screens.

Repeated use of unsuitable products may leave displays looking dull, patchy or permanently marked, affecting both appearance and performance.

Instead, choose a cleaner specifically developed for display technology. Products such as Undo Screen Cleaner, from Safeguard Europe, provide a smear-free finish while remaining alcohol-free and water-based. Suitable for LCD, LED, OLED, E Ink and touchscreen displays, it is designed to remove fingerprints, dust, grease and everyday grime without leaving residue behind.

For best results, apply the cleaner to a clean microfibre cloth rather than directly onto the screen surface.

4. Use the correct cloth

The cloth used can be just as important as the cleaning solution itself. Paper towels, workshop wipes and general-purpose cleaning cloths may feel soft but can leave fine scratches on delicate display surfaces. Although the damage may not be visible immediately, repeated use of unsuitable materials can gradually wear away coatings and reduce screen quality.

A clean, lint-free microfibre cloth is the preferred choice for screen cleaning. Microfibre fibres are designed to lift dust, dirt and fingerprints without scratching the surface.

It is also important to keep cloths clean. A microfibre cloth contaminated with grit or other particles can quickly damage a screen during cleaning.

5. Turn screens off before cleaning

Before cleaning any display, switch it off and, where possible, disconnect it from the power supply.

A powered-down screen makes dust, fingerprints and smears easier to see, helping cleaners achieve better results. It also prevents accidental inputs on touchscreens and reduces the risk of electrical issues if any moisture is present during cleaning.

After cleaning, allow the screen to dry completely before powering it back on. Taking a few extra moments to switch equipment off can improve cleaning effectiveness and help protect valuable electronic devices.

safeguardeurope.com