How do you get rid of screen smudges?

Answered by Ricardo McCardle

To effectively get rid of screen smudges, you can use a simple and affordable solution: a mixture of water and vinegar. This method has been widely recommended and has proven to be effective in removing smudges and fingerprints from screens.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the water and vinegar solution to clean your screens:

1. Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a bowl or spray bottle. Distilled water is preferable to avoid any mineral residues, but tap water can also be used.

2. Dampen a microfiber cloth: Take a clean microfiber cloth and dampen it with the water and vinegar solution. It’s important to ensure that the cloth is only slightly damp and not dripping with the solution.

3. Wring the cloth: After dampening the cloth, give it a good wring to remove any excess liquid. This is crucial to prevent any liquid from dripping onto the screen, which could potentially damage it.

4. Gently wipe the screen: Begin wiping the screen with the damp microfiber cloth, focusing on the smudged or fingerprinted areas. Use gentle and circular motions, applying light pressure. Avoid using excessive force, as it may scratch or damage the screen.

5. Pay attention to corners and edges: Don’t forget to clean the corners and edges of the screen, as smudges and fingerprints tend to accumulate in these areas. Carefully wipe these areas, ensuring that the cloth is not too wet.

6. Repeat if necessary: For stubborn smudges or fingerprints, you may need to repeat the process. Apply a bit more pressure while wiping, but still be cautious not to damage the screen.

7. Let it dry: Once you have successfully wiped away the smudges, let the screen air dry for a few minutes. Avoid using a hairdryer or any other heat source to speed up the drying process, as this may cause damage to the screen.

Additional Tips:
– Use a dedicated microfiber cloth solely for screen cleaning to avoid cross-contamination from other cleaning products.
– If you prefer a ready-to-use solution, you can find screen cleaning sprays specifically designed for electronic devices in stores or online. These sprays often contain a mixture of water, vinegar, and other cleaning agents.
– Never spray the cleaning solution directly onto the screen. Always apply it to the cloth first to avoid any liquid seeping into the device.
– Avoid using paper towels, tissues, or regular cloths to clean screens, as they can leave lint and scratches.
– Regularly cleaning your screens can help prevent smudges and fingerprints from building up. Consider incorporating this cleaning routine into your device maintenance.

Remember, the water and vinegar solution is a safe and effective method for cleaning screens, but always check your device’s manufacturer guidelines for any specific cleaning instructions.