How to Clean a Laptop or Computer Screen Without Damage

Fingerprints, dust and mystery smudges make any screen hard to look at. But laptop and monitor screens are more delicate than glass windows: the wrong cleaner can strip anti-glare coatings or leave permanent marks. Here's how to clean a laptop or computer screen safely, without streaks.

Quick answer: Turn the device off and unplug it. Wipe the screen gently with a dry microfiber cloth. For smudges, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water (never spray the screen directly), wipe in one direction, and buff dry. Avoid window cleaner, ammonia, and paper towels.

What You'll Need

• Two clean, soft microfiber cloths
• Distilled water
• Optional: a screen cleaner labeled safe for displays

Step-by-Step

1. Power off and unplug. A black screen shows dirt better, and you avoid pressing keys or damaging pixels.
2. Dry dust first. Wipe the screen gently with a dry microfiber cloth, in one direction or light circles. Don't press hard.
3. Lightly dampen a cloth. Moisten a corner of the cloth with distilled water. It should be damp, not wet.
4. Wipe smudges. Wipe gently top to bottom. Keep liquid away from edges and openings.
5. Buff dry with the second dry cloth.
6. Wait until completely dry before closing the laptop lid or turning the screen on.

Apple MacBook and iMac Screens

Apple's guide on how to clean Apple products has model-specific instructions, including for nano-texture glass, which should only be cleaned with the special polishing cloth Apple provides. When in doubt, follow the manufacturer's directions for your exact model.

What NOT to Use on Screens

• Window or glass cleaners, and anything with ammonia
• Bleach, hydrogen peroxide and abrasive powders
• Paper towels, tissues or rough cloths (they scratch and leave lint)
• Spraying liquid directly onto the screen
• Heavy pressure

Cleaning the Keyboard and Trackpad

1. Power off and unplug.
2. Turn the laptop upside down at an angle and gently tap to release crumbs.
3. Use a soft brush or short bursts of compressed air (hold the can upright) between keys.
4. Wipe keys and trackpad with a cloth lightly dampened with water, or with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes if your manufacturer allows it for hard, non-porous surfaces.

External Monitors and TVs

Use the same gentle dry-then-damp method. For big screens, see How to Clean a TV Screen Without Streaks.

How Often to Clean

Dust screens weekly with a dry cloth, and do a damp clean when you see smudges. Clean keyboards weekly, especially if you eat at your desk.

Related Guides

Phone not charging? Try How to Clean an iPhone Charging Port. Learn which cloth to use for what in our microfiber cloth guide.

FAQ

Can I use alcohol wipes on my laptop screen?

Some manufacturers allow 70% isopropyl wipes on certain screens, but others don't, because alcohol can damage coatings. Check your manufacturer's guidance.

Why does my screen still look streaky?

Usually too much liquid or a dirty cloth. Use a fresh microfiber cloth and less water.