The essentials in 30 seconds
Turn the TV off and unplug it before you start. Wipe the screen gently with a soft, clean, lint-free, dry microfibre cloth, without pressing. Samsung UK says never to use window cleaner, soap, scouring powder or cleansers with alcohol, benzene, ammonia or paint thinner, and never abrasive pads or paper towels: they can scratch the screen or strip the anti-glare coating. For stubborn marks, Samsung allows a microfibre cloth lightly dampened with a little water, followed by a dry cloth. Never spray water or any liquid directly onto the TV: Samsung warns that liquid getting inside may cause a failure, fire or electric shock.
- LG UK is stricter: it advises against a damp cloth on the screen. Check your model's manual.
- Hard pressure can leave scratches or discoloration.
How to clean a TV screen
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01
Switch off and unplug
A dark screen also shows dust and smudges more clearly.
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02
Dry microfibre wipe
Wipe smudges and fingerprints gently with a clean, dry microfibre cloth. LG suggests wiping in one direction.
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03
Stubborn marks
If your manual allows it, lightly dampen part of the cloth with a small amount of water, never the screen itself, and wipe gently.
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04
Dry straight away
Remove any moisture with a dry cloth or a dry part of the microfibre.
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05
Plug back in when dry
Only once the screen and frame are fully dry.
Cleaners and cloths that damage TV screens
| Product or habit | Why |
|---|---|
| Window cleaner, window sprays | Can strip the anti-glare coating (Samsung) |
| Alcohol, ammonia, acetone, benzene, paint thinner | Solvents that damage the screen or product (Samsung, LG) |
| Soap, scouring powder, abrasives, polish, wax | Scratch or deteriorate the surface (Samsung, LG) |
| Paper towels, abrasive pads, rough rags | Can scratch the screen (Samsung, LG) |
| Spraying water or cleaner on the screen | Liquid inside may cause failure, fire or electric shock (Samsung) |
| Pressing hard | Scratches or discoloration (LG) |
Can you clean a TV screen with water?
The two brands differ slightly. Samsung UK allows a microfibre cloth dampened with a small amount of water, followed by a dry cloth. LG UK says to avoid spraying water on the screen or using a damp cloth, and suggests lightly breathing on fingerprints before wiping. Because coatings vary between models, follow your TV's user manual; when in doubt, stay with a dry microfibre cloth.
Keeping the screen clean and safe
LG advises keeping toys and keys away from the TV, where children could knock or scratch it, and wrapping it securely in suitable packing before a move. Touching the screen leaves greasy fingerprints, so dust it regularly with a dry cloth rather than waiting for a heavy clean.
How to clean a TV screen: FAQs
What is the best thing to clean a TV screen with?
A soft, clean, lint-free, dry microfibre cloth, according to Samsung UK.
Can I use Windex or glass cleaner on a TV?
No. Samsung UK says never to use window cleaner: it can strip the anti-glare coating.
Can I clean a TV screen with water?
Samsung allows a cloth lightly dampened with a little water, then a dry cloth; LG advises against a damp cloth. Never spray water on the screen. Check your manual.
Can I use wet wipes or paper towels?
No. Paper towels and abrasive pads can scratch the screen, and LG warns against rough or wet rags.
Should I unplug the TV to clean it?
Yes. Both Samsung and LG say to unplug before cleaning.
Sources
Manufacturer guidance, checked on 2 November 2026 (02/11/2026).
- Samsung UK · How should I clean my TV screen? ↗Updated 18 September 2026: soft, clean, lint-free, dry microfibre cloth; no window cleaner, soap, scouring powder, alcohol, benzene, ammonia or paint thinner; no abrasive pads or paper towels; unplug; never spray liquid on the TV (failure, fire or electric shock); body cleaned with a lightly dampened microfibre cloth, then dried; no strong force. Read in the browser.
- LG UK · How do I clean up the screen surface? ↗1 September 2023: unplug, wipe gently in one direction with a soft microfibre cloth; excessive force may scratch or discolour; avoid spraying water or using a damp cloth; no polish, abrasives, wax, benzene, alcohol or acetone; refer to the user manual; keep toys and keys away; pack securely to move. Read in the browser.
Mark that won't come off?
Stop rubbing: it may be a scratch or coating damage. Contact the manufacturer's support with your model number.