Desktop Monitor

Desktop Monitor

If you’re desktop monitor is like most peoples it will be the unfortunate bearer of several fingerprints, smudges and who knows what else. Considering it is the only part of our PC that we actually really look at, we should be taking better care of it. Having a nice clean dust free screen is also much easier on the eyes than looking through smudges into the World Wide Web.

Chances are you were partly attracted to your PC by its beautiful LCD screen, its functional monitor stand or its display features. Yet very few people take the few short moments required every now and again to ensure it continues to look as good as it did on the shelf or in that glossy magazine. Nothings changed, it can still look that good, just not without your help. Any PC or monitor retailer will regularly clean their screens on display not only to extend their usability, but to make them more appealing to their customers. Take the same pride in your monitor at home.

A couple of tips that you should consider if preserving the life and look of your monitor or screen are important to you:

1. Check your owner’s manual first for cleaning and care recommendations. They have tried and tested their methods and have decided what is best for their product – chances are it’s the best advice you can get specific to your monitor or screen.

2. Water and a clean dry soft cloth is usually all that’s required for a decent clean. Some say a mixture of vinegar and water will cut through grease marks easier. Put whatever you are using into a spray bottle to avoid using too much.

3. If the manufacturer does not recommend a specific cleaning solution and you need something a little stronger than water discuss with the retailer who sold you the monitor, research products online with positive reviews or seek advice from a computer specialist store. It is always best to get a good recommendation first before putting your monitor at risk of damage.

4. Always spray any cleaning solution you are using onto the cloth NOT the screen directly. Your screen should never get wet.

5. Don’t push with your fingers on your LCD screen; it can do irreversible damage to the pixels. Avoid touching the screen face with your hands at all if possible.

6. The use of ammonia or ethyl alcohol based cleaners may seem to do a good job at first glance, but can turn your monitor yellow over time.

7. A can of compressed air is handy to have on standby. Not only will it quickly remove a layer of dust on your screen but it’s helpful to use on other parts of your computer too.

8. Consider your monitor’s set up. Is it in an area that is prone to dust, could it be moved? It may be worth covering with a light sheet or similar after use to avoid dust build up if this is a problem for you.