Cleaning Monitors: Removing Fly Specks Completely

Flies are attracted to light, so it's no surprise that they end up on our monitors. Fly specks are a combination of excrement and undigested food. To remove them, you can try using a suction cup to gently pull the screen and tapping the monitor's side. Alternatively, you can disassemble the monitor and remove the bugs directly, but this is more complex and may void your warranty. To prevent flies from getting inside your monitor, keep your space clean and consider using a different light source to attract the flies away from your screen.

Use a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to wipe down the monitor

To remove fly specks from your monitor, you can use a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. This method is effective for cleaning most screens, including computer monitors and LCD screens. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, turn off your monitor and unplug any power cords. It is important to power down the device to reduce the risk of damage and to make it easier to spot smudges and stains. Place the monitor on a flat surface to avoid accidentally dropping it.

Next, prepare the cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. You can use distilled water or plain tap water for this. Combine the ingredients in a bowl or spray bottle. If using a bowl, you will need to wet a paper towel or a lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, with the solution. Be sure to wring out the cloth or towel so that it is not dripping.

Before applying the solution to your monitor, it is a good idea to test it on a small, hidden area of the screen to ensure that it is safe for your particular monitor. You can then proceed to gently rub the cloth or towel over the screen, using small circular motions. As the fly specks are removed, rotate to a clean area of the cloth or towel.

Once you have finished removing the fly specks, you may want to wash the screen with water, especially if it is an area that will come into contact with food, to ensure that all bacteria are removed. Finally, dry the screen with a separate rag or cloth.

It is important to note that you should not spray the solution directly onto the monitor, as this could damage the internal components. Additionally, avoid using paper towels, toilet paper, or tissue to clean the screen, as these can scratch the monitor.

Try a suction cup to gently lift the screen and coax the fly out

If you have a bug stuck behind your LCD screen, a simple solution is to use a suction cup to gently lift the screen and coax the fly out. This trick has been used successfully to remove bugs from TVs and monitors without causing damage.

To do this, you will need a small rubber suction cup, ideally about 5cm in diameter. You can find these in hardware stores or even in pound shops, often sold as tools for hanging items on bathroom or kitchen tiles. Attach the suction cup to the screen, being careful not to get too close to the bug, as you don't want to squash it and create a permanent stain. Once the suction cup is securely attached, gently pull back on it to create a gap between the screen and the display. You can also try tapping the side of the monitor to encourage the bug to move.

The goal is to give the bug room to fall out, so you may need to experiment with different angles and positions to find the best way to coax it out. This method is most effective when the bug is still alive, as it will be able to crawl out with the added space you create. However, it can also work for dead bugs, as it will give you room to manipulate the screen and guide the bug out without crushing it.

Using a suction cup is a simple and low-risk solution to remove bugs from your screen, saving you from the depressing sight of a dead bug every time you turn on your device.

Disassemble the monitor to access the layers behind the screen

To disassemble your monitor and access the layers behind the screen, you will need to proceed with caution and patience to avoid causing any damage. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Prepare Your Workspace:

• Switch off your monitor and disconnect all wires, including the power cable and any cables connecting to your system.
• Place a soft cloth, such as a towel or blanket, on a flat and stable surface to prevent scratches or damage to your monitor.
• Lay your monitor facedown on the prepared surface.

Remove the Base and Stand:

• Press the release button near the junction of the base and monitor to slide out and remove the base.
• Remove the screws from the IO panel, typically three Phillips screws.
• Detach the stand base, which is usually secured with a large flat-head screw.

Loosen the Metal Plate and Remove Screws:

• Carefully loosen the metal plate as it is attached to long plastic tubes that may crack under excessive force.
• You will find three Phillips screws hidden under the metal plate. A magnetic Phillips screwdriver with a long, thin neck is recommended for this step.

Remove the Tilting Mechanism:

• Gently press on the plastic lock clamp between/below the two bolts to release the tilting mechanism.
• Remove the long Phillips screws located beneath the tilting mechanism to separate the plastic back of the monitor.
• Use a pry tool and screwdriver to carefully remove the plastic screws securing the monitor's back to avoid leaving markings.
• Start at the base on the side without the control panel/buttons, and work your way up and around.

Disconnect the Control Panel:

Before detaching the plastic side frame, disconnect the control panel by opening the clamp with a screwdriver and carefully dislodging the ribbon cable.

Detach the Plastic Side Frame and Bottom Metal Frame:

• After disconnecting the control panel, remove the screws in the plastic frame, being cautious around the cabling.
• The bottom metal frame can be voluntarily disassembled for better access to the LCD and backlight layers. Simply remove the mechanical locks securing the metal strip.

Detach the LCD and Backlight Layers:

• Your monitor consists of three layers: the backlight, diffuser sheet, and LCD.
• The outermost protective plastic/glass layer is permanently attached to the LCD and cannot be removed.
• Remove the self-adhesive diffuser sheet below the LCD layer for cleaning.
• The backlight layer at the bottom may be detachable, but proceed with caution.

Use a desk lamp to draw the fly away from the screen

If you're looking to remove flies from your monitor screen, a desk lamp can be a great solution. Here are some tips on how to use a desk lamp to draw the flies away from your screen:

• Choose the right lamp: Look for a lamp with an adjustable arm that can be positioned near your monitor. The lamp should also have a wide range of motion so that you can direct the light where you need it.
• Position the lamp correctly: Place the lamp close to your monitor and adjust the arm so that the light shines on the screen. You may need to experiment with different angles to find the most effective position.
• Use the right type of light bulb: LED bulbs are a good choice as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and often offer adjustable brightness and colour temperature settings. Look for a bulb with a higher Colour Rendering Index (CRI) for a more natural light.
• Adjust the brightness and colour temperature: If your lamp and bulb allow for it, play around with the brightness and colour temperature settings to find what works best for drawing the flies away.
• Keep the lamp clean: A dirty lamp shade can reduce light output and create an uneven light distribution. Regularly wipe down the lamp shade with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris.
• Consider other fly-repelling methods: In addition to using a desk lamp, you can also try covering your food to avoid attracting flies, or using natural repellents such as citronella candles or essential oils.

By following these tips, you can effectively use a desk lamp to draw flies away from your monitor screen. This will not only improve your work environment but also help reduce any distractions caused by the flies.

Prevent flies from approaching the monitor by keeping the surrounding area clean

Keeping the area around your monitor clean is an effective way to prevent flies from approaching and leaving their unsightly marks. Flies are attracted to unhygienic conditions, so maintaining a clean environment is a simple yet important step.

Firstly, ensure that all bins in the vicinity are regularly emptied, and that any food waste is disposed of promptly and securely. Keep your food covered when eating near your monitor, as flies are attracted to exposed food. In addition, keep your food waste and bins away from your monitor setup, as flies are drawn to the scent.

If you have pets, make sure to clean up after them, as flies are attracted to animal waste. Check your sewage pipes and ensure they are closed tightly, with no leaks, and that there are no pipes running behind your monitor. Flies breed in human and animal excrement, so proper waste management is crucial.

Keep your space well-ventilated and free from pungent odours, especially those of rotting food or waste. Regularly clean your space and monitor, using a mild detergent or vinegar solution to wipe down surfaces. A clean, fresh-smelling environment will deter flies from approaching your monitor.

Frequently asked questions