How To Clean A MacBook Screen?

Keep your MacBook screen pristine with our step-by-step guide. Safely clean fingerprints, oils, and grime for a sparkling, scratch-free display!

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By Abhishek Chandel
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How To Clean A MacBook Screen

How To Clean A MacBook Screen

Your MacBook's screen allows you to access all that your laptop can do. Keeping it clean should be a priority. A dirty screen not only looks bad, but it can also end up scratched and damaged over time. Giving your screen a regular cleaning with the proper steps will keep it looking like new.

Materials You'll Need to Clean a MacBook Screen

  • Microfiber cloths - Always use a soft microfiber cloth made specifically for cleaning screens. The soft fabric prevents scratching the screen. Avoid paper towels or other materials that could scratch.

  • Distilled water - Tap water contains minerals that can leave residue on the screen when drying. Distilled water won't leave any spots or streaks.

  • Isopropyl alcohol (optional) - For tough oil and grease, use a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. The alcohol cuts through buildup.

Step 1: Shut Down and Unplug the MacBook

Before doing any cleaning, shut down your MacBook completely and unplug it from power. Make sure the screen is cool to the touch before wiping it down. This prevents any risk of damage to the screen or electric shock. Don't try to clean the screen while it's powered on or you could inadvertently press keys or click links.

Step 2: Remove Dust and Dirt

Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe away any loose dust, dirt, or other debris that may be on your screen. Wipe across the screen gently in circular motions. This initial wipe cleans the surface before the wet cleaning.

Step 3: Dampen the Microfiber Cloth

Wet your microfiber cloth lightly with distilled water, being careful not to oversaturate it. The cloth should be damp but not dripping wet. Make sure no water drips down into the inner workings of your MacBook.

Step 4: Clean the Screen

Gently wipe across the MacBook screen using the damp microfiber cloth. Continue using circular motions. The damp cloth will lift away fingerprints, oils, dust, and other buildup without scratching the screen or leaving spots.

Step 5: Dry the Screen

It's important not to leave any liquid on the screen. Take a fresh, dry microfiber cloth and carefully wipe the screen until bone dry. There should be no moisture, streaks, or dust remaining when you're done.

Step 6: Use Isopropyl Alcohol for Stubborn Grime

If oils or greasy residue still remain, prepare a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. Dampen your cloth with the mixture and gently wipe the affected areas to dissolve the grime. Finish by immediately drying the screen fully with your microfiber cloth to remove all alcohol.

Step 7: Polish to a Sparkling Finish

Finish up your MacBook screen cleaning by gently polishing it with a fresh, dry microfiber cloth. This removes any last traces of dust or lint and leaves you with a spotless, brilliant screen. Your MacBook screen will now look as good as new!

Conclusion

Regularly cleaning your MacBook screen using these steps with keep it looking immaculate and functioning at its best. Just be sure to always use soft, lint-free cloths dampened with distilled water and polish dry to prevent scratches or water damage. Follow these tips and your MacBook screen will maintain that out-of-the-box shine.

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