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How to clean your LCD or plasma TV

Don't let a dirty screen ruin the image quality of your LCD or plasma TV. Our cleaning tips will show you how to safely clean your TV, so you can enjoy it at its best.

Ed Rhee
Ed Rhee, a freelance writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is an IT veteran turned stay-at-home-dad of two girls. He focuses on Android devices and applications while maintaining a review blog at techdadreview.com.
Ed Rhee
Sony BRAVIA KDL-HX729
Sony Electronics

Don't let a dirty screen ruin the image quality of your LCD or plasma TV. Our cleaning tips will show you how to safely clean your TV, so you can enjoy it at its best.

To clean your LCD or plasma TV, follow these steps:

Step 1: Turn off your TV and unplug it.

Step 2: Gently wipe the screen with a dry, lint-free cloth, like a microfiber cloth. Your TV may have come with a cleaning cloth, so check the box before going out to purchase a new one. Never use abrasive cleaners or paper-based cloths, like paper towels; they can leave scratches on your screen.

Step 3: For more stubborn spots, lightly moisten a microfiber cloth with a commercial cleaning solution that's specifically made for plasma and LCD screens. Never spray anything directly onto your TV screen or cabinet. Also, don't use water to clean your TV unless directed to by the manufacturer.

Do not use cleaners with the following agents, as they can damage the special coatings on your screen or paint from the cabinet:

  • alcohol
  • benzene
  • ammonia
  • paint thinner

Step 4: Wipe away any remaining moisture from the screen with a dry microfiber cloth or wait until the moisture has evaporated before plugging your TV back in.

That's it. Your TV manufacturer may have additional care instructions, so check your manual for more details.