How to Clean Your Television Screen

It never fails. You sit down to watch the big game, the new release movie you just rented for Blockbuster or you just want to relax after a busy day. You turn on the television, relaxing in your favorite recliner and you realize streaks, smudges and other build-up obstructing your screen. Taking the time to clean your television screen not only gives you the best picture, it should be part of your cleaning routine.

Depending on your television, there are different strategies to cleaning it properly. Taking the time to learn how to clean your TV, along with doing it properly, is essential to proper maintenance. If you use the wrong cleaner, you could damage your screen permanently.

For direct view televisions, you can use Windex and paper towels to clean the screen. This applies to CRT televisions as well. While direct view TVs are older, mostly outdated, you will want to check the specifications to make sure no special coatings exist that would interact with household glass cleaners. If that is the case, the manual should tell you what to use and if it does not, you can contact the manufacturer for safe cleaning instructions and advice. When it comes to CRT TVs, you will want to check if it is using a hard coating or not. If it is using a hard coating, you can use a damp cloth to clean it. If it is not, you will need to purchase a specialty cleaner so as not to damage the exposed screen.

Rear projection television screens use a screen shield to protect the actual viewing screen. These should be cleaned with a soft cloth, water and mild soap. Never use any type of cleaning product or solution as it will damage the screen. Also avoid any type of paper towel or abrasive cloth as this will scratch the screen permanently.

Plasma and LCD televisions can be cleaned using a soft cloth that is slightly damp. Using a mild soap is permissible, but do not use any sort of household cleaning products. Some manufacturers have their own screen cleaning products, so use accordingly. Avoid using paper towels, hard clothes or anything that might scratch the screen. When actually cleaning the screen, you will want to press very gently on the screen so as not to push in the screen.

By being careful and cleaning regularly, your television screen will produce the best picture quality. Taking the time to maintain your television is one way to get the best out of it. Learn how to best clean your TV, take the time to do it and enjoy the quality that follows.