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The Unnoticed Dust-Magnet in Your Living Room: A Neglected Centerpiece That’s an Eyesore and Energy Drain

The living room is a space we are all familiar with and spend a lot of time in, yet many of us overlook the importance of keeping the appliances within it clean.

Administrator

3 September, 2024

One of the most familiar items in the living room that is used daily is the television. Many users assume that, being an electronic device and used frequently, the TV does not need to be cleaned or maintained. However, this is a misconception.

While it is used almost daily in many households, few people remember to clean their television (Illustration photo)

Experts say that the LCD screens of televisions can be easily damaged if used for a long time and exposed to the air. Even a thick layer of dust on the screen or on the device’s cooling components can obstruct the TV’s operation. This can lead to reduced lifespan and increased energy consumption. Additionally, a dusty screen can make the displayed images appear less sharp.

Therefore, if you haven’t had the habit of cleaning your living room TV, now is the time to start, especially with the end-of-year house cleaning. Here are some tips and step-by-step instructions for cleaning your TV, provided by manufacturers, distributors, and The Spruce.

Safe TV Cleaning Steps

First, you need to prepare the necessary tools, including:

– A soft cloth or microfiber cloth

– Mild cleaning solutions such as vinegar, water, or specialized cleaning products

– A spray bottle or a small bowl/basin of water

Experts emphasize that you should never use paper towels, toilet paper, wet wipes containing alcohol, or old clothes to clean your TV, especially the screen. These materials can scratch or leave fibers on the screen. Additionally, avoid using alcohol, gasoline, machine oil, or nail polish remover as they can corrode and damage the screen, causing discoloration or stains.

Vinegar is considered a mild and safe cleaning solution for TVs (Illustration photo)

Once you have gathered the necessary tools, you can start cleaning your TV following these steps:

Step 1: Unplug the TV completely. This ensures safety during the cleaning process for both you and the appliance.

Step 2: Use the soft cloth to gently wipe away any dust from the TV screen and other parts of the TV, such as the plastic frame, stand/base, and back panel.

Make sure to unplug the TV before cleaning (Illustration photo)

Use a soft, dry cloth for initial dusting (Illustration photo)

Step 3: Once the initial dusting is done, it’s time for a deeper clean. Using your chosen cleaning solution, dampen the cloth and gently wipe the screen. For stubborn stains, apply gentle pressure and use a circular motion. Always dampen the cloth with the solution and then wipe the screen, instead of spraying or pouring directly onto the screen. After finishing the screen, repeat the process for other TV areas. For these areas, you can spray the solution directly and then wipe.

Do not spray cleaning solutions directly onto the TV screen (Illustration photo)

Instead, spray or dampen the cloth before wiping (Illustration photo)

Finally, use a clean, dry soft cloth to wipe the TV dry. You can also clean the power cord by simply wiping it with a cloth or paper towel to remove dust. For the remote control, remove the batteries and use a damp cotton swab to clean the crevices thoroughly.

To maintain a clear picture, it is recommended to dust the TV screen weekly. However, in case of accidents like liquid spills or food/drink splatters, clean the affected areas immediately to prevent any potential damage.

Frequently asked questions

The center table, a neglected centerpiece, is an eyesore and an energy drain. It collects dust and dirt over time, becoming a magnet for debris and a breeding ground for bacteria. The accumulated dust is then easily dispersed into the air and spread throughout the room with the slightest movement, causing a constant cycle of dust settlement and dispersal.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Besides routine dusting and vacuuming, deep cleaning the center table and surrounding areas periodically can help. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the table and remove built-up dust and grime. Consider using natural, non-toxic cleaning agents like vinegar or lemon juice to disinfect and freshen the surface. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation in the room by opening windows and allowing fresh air to circulate.

A clean and well-maintained centerpiece can enhance the aesthetics of your living room, creating a welcoming and comfortable space. It also contributes to better air quality, reducing the spread of dust and bacteria. Maintaining a dust-free environment can help alleviate allergies and respiratory issues, creating a healthier living space for you and your family.

It is recommended to dust and wipe down the center table at least once a week. For a more thorough cleaning, aim for a deep clean every two weeks or once a month, depending on the traffic in your living room. Regular maintenance will help prevent dust buildup and make the task more manageable.

Absolutely! Invest in a good quality air purifier to help capture dust particles and improve air circulation. Use microfiber cloths for dusting as they trap dust more effectively. Avoid using feather dusters as they tend to spread dust around. Also, consider using furniture polish or a natural oil blend to help repel dust and keep surfaces cleaner for longer.