Glass screen TVs are a thing of the past, and you don’t want to use the same methods that you would have used to clean those on your nice, shiny HD TV screen. Seriously. It isn’t a good idea.
That doesn’t mean that you need to leave your TV there to collect dust, grime, and other obnoxious airborne debris. If you are careful, there are still ways to clean your TV and make it look just like the day you brought it home.
But, if you are new to the HD world – or have just finally decided that it is long past time to clean your TV – there are some things to keep in mind. These tips will help make sure your TV stays around as long as possible, and cleaning it doesn’t accidently turn into a case of “whoops I broke the TV and now I have to go get a new one”-itis.
Also, you’ll want to make sure to check any labels or other such warnings that may have come with your TV in its manual, as well. Better safe than sorry.
1) Power down
Before you start cleaning your TV, you want to make sure to turn it off. It’s a simple step, but one that you don’t want to forget, either.
You’ll also want to give the screen some time to cool down. This will help avoid those unsightly streaks that can show up after you are done wiping down the screen.
2) Go micro
Microfiber, that is. Grab a microfiber cloth, such as the cloth that came with your TV set. Be gentle – this is an expensive piece of technology you are cleaning, remember – and don’t press down hard. Don’t. Press. Down. Hard.
If you aren’t sure if what you have is a microfiber cloth, go out and find one that specifically says it is. What you really don’t want to use is something that is going to damage the screen. It may seem more convenient, but paper towels, sponges, rags, wood-based papers, Kleenex, toilet paper, or even t-shirts are all out. Don’t put them on your TV screen. Just don’t.
3) Extra attention
If that isn’t enough, there are still some things you can try. Don’t use cleaners that have alcohol, ammonia, acetone, methyl chloride, or ethyl acid in them. That means Windex is out for this task.
But, you can try using a microfiber cloth and upgrade it a bit to give it a little more cleaning power. Dip your cloth in a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, and gently use that to clean off the screen. Make sure that you don’t get the screen too wet – as that can cause damage, as well – and you’ll want to grab another microfiber cloth to wipe the screen dry when you are done.
Another bonus tip: Don’t spray liquid directly on the TV, as that could cause lasting damage. Go with the wet microfiber cloth approach, instead.
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