How To Clean Computer Screens

Prolong the Life of Your Screen and Help Prevent Eye Strain

If you own a computer, you know that it must be regularly
maintained. This includes your monitor. Since monitors are
electronic appliances, they attract dust, and that dust can
build up quickly. Dust isn't the only culprit. Fingerprints,
smears, and if you are a smoker, that smoke buildup can get
rather disgusting. Follow these simple instructions, and your
monitor will be in tip-top shape.

CRT Monitors

1. The Screen. Since CRT screens are glass, window cleaner
is a suitable cleaning agent. NEVER spray the cleaner directly
on the screen. Instead, spray the cleaner modestly on a soft,
lint-free cloth, then clean the glass as you would a window.
Windex wipes are great for this, and when you're done, the
wipe should still be good for wiping down that dusty
television screen while you're at it.
2. The Case. The plastic case should be kept clean as well.
First, use a handheld vacuum, a vacuum cleaner with a computer
attachment, or a specialized computer vacuum to clean the
cooling vents. NEVER spray any type of cleaner near these
vents, as you will damage the circuitry inside. The rest of
the case can be cleaned with a soft cloth lightly dampened
with plain water.

LCD Monitors

1. The Screen. A liquid crystal display, or LCD, isn't
glass, so avoid using glass cleaner, ans steer clear of
anything containing ammonia. Instead, pick up a container of
LCD cleaning wipes. They can be found in the large retail
stores or your local computer specialty store. You may also
use lens cleaning wipes typically found in the camera
department. Both types are lint-free and pre-moistened with
an alcohol solution, which dries quickly and leaves no
residue. In a pinch, you may use a soft, lint-free cloth
moistened with plain water. Never spray anything directly
onto the screen, as water can seep into the case and damage
the circuitry inside.
2. The Case. As with the CRT case, use a handheld vacuum,
a vacuum cleaner with a computer attachment, or a specialized
computer vacuum to clean the cooling vents. NEVER spray any
type of cleaner near these vents, as you will damage the
circuitry inside. The rest of the case can be cleaned with
a soft cloth lightly dampened with plain water.

A regular cleaning regimen for all of your computer hardware
will add life to your system and save you from problems
associated with eye strain.