Computers have become an integral part of our daily lives, but many users are unaware of the proper way to clean and maintain them, which can lead to potential damage and reduce their lifespan. One important thing to remember is to avoid cleaning your computer screen with a wet cloth. Why?
Don’t clean your computer screen with a wet cloth
Experts advise against cleaning your computer screen with a wet cloth. This mistake can cause significant harm to your device.
As we know, regular cleaning of our computers is essential to ensure optimal performance, and the screen is a particularly delicate component. Cleaning a computer is not as simple as cleaning other objects; one wrong move can lead to potential damage and a reduced lifespan.
Computer screens, especially LCD or LED screens, are very sensitive. They are made up of thin layers of glass, plastic, and a delicate display membrane. Not only are they susceptible to physical damage, but they are also highly sensitive to elements like water and moisture. When you use a wet cloth to clean the screen, you inadvertently create an opportunity for water to seep into the small gaps around the screen. Even a small amount of water from the cloth can find its way into the connection ports or electrical circuits, causing the screen to flicker and malfunction.
Computer screens usually have plastic bezels. The gap between the screen and the bezel is not completely sealed. When water seeps through these gaps, it can reach the internal electronic components, leading to a high risk of damage to the electronic circuits, causing short circuits or even reducing the lifespan of the screen. These issues might not manifest immediately but can show up over time as black streaks or dead pixels, eventually leading to complete failure.
Additionally, water can oxidize electronic components. When it comes into contact with metal surfaces, water accelerates the rusting process, reducing the screen’s performance and even causing permanent damage to internal parts.
Using a wet cloth soaked in common cleaning agents is another serious mistake. Strong cleaning agents often contain alcohol, ammonia, or other chemicals that can damage the screen’s anti-reflective coating. Computer screens are typically coated with a thin layer to prevent glare and protect against scratches. These chemicals can corrode the coating, leaving the screen vulnerable to scratches, dust, and glare during use.
Proper way to clean your computer screen
To keep your computer screen clean, instead of using a wet cloth, opt for a soft, clean cloth or a specialized screen-cleaning cloth. There are also cleaning solutions specifically designed for computer screens that do not contain alcohol or strong chemicals. By using these solutions with a soft cloth, you can effectively clean the screen without worrying about damaging the coating or the internal components.
It is crucial to avoid spraying the cleaning solution directly onto the screen to prevent liquid or moisture from seeping into the gaps. Instead, spray the solution onto the cloth, making sure it is slightly damp and not soaked, and then gently wipe the screen in a circular motion to avoid leaving streaks.
Additionally, make sure to turn off the screen and allow it to cool down completely before cleaning. This not only helps you see dirt and smudges more clearly but also ensures safety by preventing water from coming into contact with a hot screen, which could cause damage.