How to Clean Your Computer Screen for a Streak-Free Finish

It’s easy to ignore a dusty or smudged computer screen—until the glare from a nearby window makes every fingerprint and dust particle impossible to overlook. Whether you use a desktop monitor or a laptop, keeping your screen clean isn’t just about appearance; it also helps protect your device from wear and tear over time.

Cleaning your computer screen can be a quick and easy task that only takes a few minutes and uses items you likely already have on hand. The key is knowing what to use (and what to avoid) so you don’t accidentally damage the screen's delicate surface. "Keeping your monitor clean is a cinch, but you do need to follow a few simple rules to do it safely," IT specialist Marc Giguere shares.

Below, find an expert-backed method to get your computer screen sparkling clean, safely and effectively.

Turn Everything Off

Before you do anything, turn your computer or monitor completely off. If it’s a laptop, shut it down and unplug it from its charger. If it’s a monitor, power it down and disconnect it from the computer and its outlet.

"This is primarily for safety," Giguere explains, "but it also makes it much easier to see dust, smudges, and streaks when the screen is dark."

Use a Microfiber Cloth

Skip the paper towels: Random fabrics and disposable cloths can scratch the surface or leave behind lint and fibers. Instead, reach for a clean microfiber cloth. These soft, non-abrasive cloths are specifically designed for delicate surfaces, such as glasses, camera lenses, and screens.

"Don’t use the same cloth you’ve been using to clean anything else. Grab a fresh one," says Giguere. "You don’t want any grit or residue on the cloth, scratching and ruining your screen."

Wipe Gently in Circles

Using a dry microfiber cloth, wipe the screen in gentle, circular motions. Don’t apply too much pressure, as modern screens (especially LCD and LED types) can be easily damaged by even gentle force.

"If you’re just dealing with dust and light smudges, this step may be all you need," shares Giguere.

Use a Screen-Safe Cleaner If Needed

For tougher spots, like fingerprints, smudges, or splatters, you’ll need a little moisture. "My favorite wipe for a truly dirty screen is a simple, ammonia-free Windex wipe," shares Giguere. "They make ones specifically for electronics, but I use the original formulation and they work like a charm."

If you don’t have a suitable wipe on hand, Marc suggests rubbing alcohol or a specially formulated screen cleaner. Avoid any cleaners that contain ammonia, alcohol, or acetone, as these can strip away protective coatings on screens. "Never spray liquid directly onto the screen," he says. "Just dampen the microfiber cloth with rubbing alcohol or screen cleaner and wipe the screen gently."

Review and Dry

"Immediately follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture and avoid streaks," Giguere says. Once finished, step back and check the screen from different angles. If you see any lingering smudges or streaks, gently buff them out with a clean, dry part of your microfiber cloth.

It's a good idea to let your screen air out for a few minutes before turning it back on, just to be sure everything is completely dry.