Whether you are trying to get dust off your monitor or fingerprints off your laptop screen, cleaning a monitor requires the right tools. When you clean your screen incorrectly, it is only a matter of time before you damage it. Modern HDTV and computer screens are brighter, sharper and more responsive than ever before – but they are also more delicate. Express.co.uk shows you how to clean your computer screen properly and safely.

How to clean your computer monitor

Remove the dust

Turn off your monitor to prevent screen damage, and remove dust with a microfibre cloth.

It is best to avoid the use of paper towels, kitchen roll or clothing, which are more abrasive and can hurt your screen.

Microfibre cloths are essential because they are lint-free and gentle on computer surfaces.

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If plain water doesn’t work, use a solution of dish soap and water by mixing 1-2 drops of mild dish soap into a bowl of plain water.

Moisten a microfibre cloth with the solution and wring out thoroughly to remove any excess liquid.

Wipe across the screen in long motions, working from the top all the way down.

Then, rinse the cloth with water, wring it out, and wipe the screen down again to remove any soap residue. Make sure to dry before using the screen again.

If you are more comfortable using a specialised computer screen cleaner, this will work as well.

Moisten a microfibre cloth with LCD screen cleaner to remove stubborn smudges.

Start at the top of the screen then work your way to the bottom with the cloth.

Never spray cleaner directly onto the screen as the liquid can trickle into the frame and damage it internally.

Do not use commercial cleaners with alcohol in them as this will damage your screen.