How to Clean TV, Laptop & Monitor Screens the Right Way

by Amy Sardone on Jun 27 2025
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    TVs, laptops, and computer monitors are some of the most sensitive surfaces in any home — and also the easiest to ruin. A tiny bit of pressure, a harsh cleaner, or too much moisture can scratch the anti-glare coating, cause streaks that never come off, or even damage pixels permanently.

    But cleaning screens safely doesn’t have to be complicated.
    With the right technique and the right product, you can leave every screen crystal-clear — and protect your client’s electronics in the process.

    Before we get into the step-by-step method, let’s talk about why most cleaning mistakes start with the wrong product.

    Why You Should Never Use Regular Glass Cleaners on Screens

    Many traditional glass cleaners contain ammonia, alcohol, or solvents. These ingredients work on windows, but they are terrible for screens because they:

    • Strip protective coatings

    • Leave behind streaky residue

    • Damage anti-glare layers

    • Dry out the surface

    • Cause permanent cloudiness

    • Accelerate pixel damage

    But there’s an even bigger problem: VOCs.

    The Hidden Problem: VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

    Most “blue bottle” glass cleaners found at the supermarket release VOCs — Volatile Organic Compounds.

    Even when you don’t see them, VOCs evaporate into the air, creating fumes that linger for hours inside the home.

    Why this is dangerous:

    • VOCs irritate the eyes and throat

    • They can trigger headaches

    • They worsen asthma and allergies

    • They lower indoor air quality

    • Children and pets are especially sensitive

    And the worst part?
    When you clean a TV or laptop, you’re standing inches away from the fumes.

    For professional cleaners, avoiding VOC-heavy products is not just about protecting the client —
    it’s about protecting your own health too.

    This leads us to the safest and most effective alternative…

    The Safer Choice: Blue Juice by Speed Cleaning

    Unlike harsh, chemical-heavy cleaners, Speed Cleaning™ Blue Juice is:

    • Ammonia-free

    • VOC-free

    • Non-toxic

    • No harsh fumes

    • Designed for glass and delicate surfaces

    • Streak-free

    It delivers the professional-grade clarity cleaning businesses need — without exposing you or your clients to harmful chemicals.

    But even with the safest cleaner, technique matters.
    And that’s where microfiber comes in.

    Why Microfiber Matters (and Why It Works)

    Microfiber cloths are essential for screen cleaning because they have electrostatic properties. This means they act like a magnet for dust:

    ✔ They lift dust instead of spreading it
    ✔ They trap particles between fibers
    ✔ They prevent debris from scratching the screen
    ✔ They need almost no pressure to be effective

    Screens require a gentle touch, and microfiber does exactly that.

    But here’s the most important rule:

    Never start with a wet cloth. Always remove debris with a dry side first.

    The Step-by-Step Method (Used by Professional Cleaners)

    1. Turn Off and Unplug the Device

    A cool, dark screen shows smudges better
    — and warm screens streak more easily.

    2. Dry Dust With the Clean, Dry Side of a Microfiber Cloth

    Use long, light strokes.
    The electrostatic fibers attract dust instantly.

    This removes debris that could scratch the screen during wet cleaning.

    3. Apply Blue Juice — But Not to the Screen

    This is non-negotiable.

    Never spray directly onto a TV, laptop, or monitor.

    Instead:

    1. Spray Blue Juice onto the microfiber cloth

    2. Fold the cloth to distribute the product evenly

    3. Use light pressure and straight, controlled motions

    This prevents moisture from seeping into the frame or electronic components.

    4. Buff With the Dry Side of the Cloth

    Flip to a clean, dry section and gently buff the screen.

    This removes:

    • Streaks

    • Haze

    • Residue

    • Extra moisture

    This step is what gives the “like-new” polished look clients love.

    5. Clean the Frame and Back Panel

    These areas collect dust quickly and affect overall room air quality.

    You can use the same slightly dampened cloth — just avoid vents and ports.

    6. Let the Device Fully Dry

    Extra Care: OLED Screens Require Special Attention

    OLED TVs are thinner and more sensitive.
    When cleaning them:

    • Use very light pressure

    • Always support the screen with your free hand

    • Avoid multiple passes over the same spot

    • Use minimal product

    • Never use alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners

    Laptop Screens & Monitors: Same Rules, Smaller Space

    The method is identical, but laptops require careful attention near:

    • Hinges

    • Bezels

    • Webcams

    • Keyboard edges

    Remember:

    • Dry dust first

    • Apply Blue Juice to the cloth only

    • Straight-line motions

    • Buff dry

    • Let fully dry before powering on

    Why Cleaning Businesses Should Offer Screen Cleaning

    Screen cleaning is one of the easiest upsells in the cleaning industry.

    It’s:

    • Quick

    • Low-risk

    • High-visibility

    • Extremely satisfying for clients

    • A great add-on for deep cleans

    And using Blue Juice positions you as a cleaner who prioritizes safety, health, and professional results — not just speed.

    Happy Cleaning,

    Amy

     

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