Q&A for How to Clean a Touch Screen

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How can I clean a cell phone screen without damaging it?

Mobile Kangaroo
Computer & Phone Repair Specialists
Mobile Kangaroo is a full service repair shop and Apple Authorized Service Provider headquartered in Mountain View, CA. Mobile Kangaroo has been repairing electronic devices such as computers, phones, and tablets, for over 19 years, with locations in over 20 cities.

Mobile Kangaroo

Computer & Phone Repair Specialists

Expert Answer

I'd use a disposable lens-cleaning wipe. If you don't have one of those, pour a few drops of isopropyl alcohol in a microfiber cloth. Wipe the screen gently, and then dry it off with a clean cloth.

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Question

Could a microfiber cloth damage the screen?

Community Answer

No, microfibre cloths are designed to not leave marks or scratches on surfaces such as glass or plastic.

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Question

I can't use a microfiber cloth because I don't have any and my mom already went to the store, so what's another technique I can use without having to go to the store?

Community Answer

If you do not have a microfiber cloth and the cleaning can't wait, a cotton cloth or corner of a shirt will do.

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Question

I clean my touch screen with water and a microfiber cloth. Is this OK?

Community Answer

Yes, just make sure you don't use too much water.

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Can I use lens cleaner?

Community Answer

Yes, you may. It should work just fine.

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What kind of substances can I use on a cloth to clean my iPhone screen?

Community Answer

You can use a small amount of alcohol or hand sanitizer gel.

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Question

My partner has sneezed all over the touch screen on my computer. How do I clean it off?

Community Answer

Use a makeup remover wipe but make sure you make it dry by squeezing it and then just wipe. Screen cleaner can be used with a tissue. Dispose of all wipes/tissues used and wash your hands to remove germs.

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Will alcohol damage a touch screen?

Community Answer

No, it will not damage the screen.

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Question

Can I use IPA spray for my phone?

Community Answer

Yes, spray a little on a cloth and then gently wipe down the screen. Never spray anything directly onto the screen.

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Question

I cleaned my phone surface with water instead of alcohol gel, and now I can't swipe anything or tap on anything. How do I fix this?

Community Answer

Buy a screen replacement on Amazon (don't worry -- they're very cheap). Then find a tutorial on YouTube for your phone type. Clean any water up if it isn't dry already.

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I am told never to use paper towels in some videos, and I read/see to use them in others. Which is correct?

Adrian

Top Answerer

If you are trying to clean dust off, use a glasses wipe. If you are trying to get finger marks and grime off, you may use a paper towel to scrub off and use a glasses wipe to dry.

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Question

Does the power have to be powered down or just turned off normally?

Community Answer

Remove the battery and then clean your phone screen. Make sure to wipe your screen off so the distilled water or gel doesn't damage the screen.

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Question

Can I use acetone instead of water or alcohol gel?

Community Answer

Yes, but dilute it in some water.

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Question

Can I use an alcohol swab?

Community Answer

Yes, as long as the alcohol swab isn't too wet.

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Question

Can I use a little bit of earring cleaner and my cleaning cloth for my glasses?

Community Answer

No. That may damage the screen. Just buy some hand sanitizer.

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Question

Can I wipe the touch screen with antibacterial gel?

Community Answer

Yes, but don't use too much as it could seep around the edges of the screen and damage the motherboard.

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Question

Should I clean my screen when I notice there's liquid on it?

Community Answer

No. Just wipe it off with your shirt or something. It is commonly believed that phones will instantly break when in contact with water. Usually, this is not the case.

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Question

What can I do when I can't swipe or tap parts of my tablet?

Community Answer

This usually means the screen is too dirty or out of charge. Clean it or put it on the charger.

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Question

Is it best to leave my phone with the screen up or down when not in use?

Community Answer

Leaving it in contact with a surface may protect it from dust accumulation, but very small dust particles on the surface it's in contact with can still scratch your device's screen. Your best option is to use those mobile covers that have a screen cover attached as well.

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Question

How frequently should I clean my screen?

Community Answer

You should clean it whenever you need to.

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Question

Can I sanitize my phone's screen with rubbing alcohol?

Community Answer

Yes, you can. It will get most fingerprints and dust cleaned but, make sure to dry it right after, or you could weaken the screen.

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Question

How can I repair a partially unresponsive touch screen?

Community Answer

If you have a fairly popular phone, check Ifixit (go to its website and click "parts") to see if it sells replacement screens. This process is quite intricate but is very easy. If it's a less popular phone, there will be replacements on eBay; however, they will not be as accurate as an official screen or Ifixit screen.

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Question

Can I use baby wipes?

Community Answer

Yes, but don't use them on the headphone jack or speaker. This could cause liquid to enter the phone, causing damage.

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