Removing Scratches From Your Lcd Monitor: A Step-By-Step Guide

Scratches on LCD screens are unsightly and annoying, but there are several ways to remove them. Some of these methods include using a soft eraser, a professional scratch repair kit, toothpaste, windscreen polish, or even petroleum jelly. While some of these methods may only work for minor scratches, others can help hide deeper scratches by making them more transparent. It's important to note that not all methods are guaranteed to work, and there is a risk of further damaging the screen. However, with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to restore an LCD screen to its original shine and clarity.

Methods to Remove LCD Monitor Scratches

Using a soft eraser

Erasers are a common and easy way to remove scratches from LCD screens. To do this, you will need a soft rubbery pencil eraser. Avoid using rough, abrasive erasers as these may damage the screen. Gently rub the eraser on the scratch mark, using left-to-right and up-and-down motions. The friction will soften the eraser, and it will fill in the scratch. Be careful not to press down too hard. This method is low risk and works well for removing light scratches and cleaning off stuck dirt.

You can also use a magic eraser, which is usually used for cleaning. Simply wipe the scratch with the magic eraser for a few seconds to remove it. If you don't have a magic eraser, you can make your own for a low cost.

Before attempting to remove scratches, ensure that your screen is powered down as scratches are easier to see when the screen is dark. Additionally, if the scratch is too deep, these methods may not be effective, and you may need to replace the screen.

Applying isopropyl alcohol

To get started, you will need a lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, and a container filled with 90-99% pure isopropyl alcohol. Avoid using paper towels or any other cloth that may contain fibres, as these can leave debris on your screen.

First, dip your cloth into the container of alcohol. Ensure that the cloth is damp rather than soaked, as you do not want excess liquid seeping into the edges of the screen and damaging the electronics. Gently wipe the screen, applying light pressure, and avoid using a circular motion, as this can cause permanent damage. Instead, move lightly in a small area using straight lines, and gradually work your way across the screen.

After you have wiped down the screen, use a dry portion of the cloth to pat down any excess liquid. Be careful not to overdo it, as you do not want to spill liquid into places where it should not go. Once you have removed the excess liquid, let the alcohol dry completely before turning on the monitor again. For a regular monitor, allow at least five minutes, and for a laptop, it is best to leave it overnight. The liquid will evaporate faster in warmer weather than in colder.

Using toothpaste

Toothpaste is a surprising yet effective solution for removing scratches from various surfaces, including LCD monitors. It is important to note that toothpaste should only be used for light scratches, and even then, it may not entirely remove the scratch but can help make it less noticeable. Additionally, it is crucial to use the correct type of toothpaste and technique to avoid causing further damage to the screen.

Choosing the Right Toothpaste

When selecting a toothpaste for scratch removal, it is essential to choose a paste-based toothpaste, as gel-based toothpastes are not effective for this purpose. Look for a toothpaste with an RDA (Radioactive Dentin Abrasiveness) value below 70-80, as these are less abrasive and less likely to damage the screen. Some suitable options include Arm & Hammer Dental Care Sensitive (RDA 48), Weleda Children's Tooth Gel (RDA 45), and Colgate Regular (RDA 68). Avoid toothpastes designed for whitening, plaque removal, or sensitive teeth, as they tend to be more abrasive.

Preparing the Screen

Before applying toothpaste to the screen, ensure that the screen is clean and free of dirt or dust. Use a soft brush and a cleaning cloth to gently remove any debris from the screen, being careful not to add more scratches in the process. Powering down the monitor can make scratches easier to identify and locate.

Applying the Toothpaste

Once the screen is clean, apply a small amount of the selected non-abrasive toothpaste to a soft cloth or cotton swab. Gently rub the toothpaste onto the scratched area of the screen using gentle, circular motions. It is important to be patient and avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause further damage. Continue rubbing the toothpaste for several seconds, ensuring that it is worked into the scratch.

Cleaning the Screen

After treating the scratch with toothpaste, use a clean, slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe away the toothpaste from the screen. The scratch should now be less noticeable or completely removed. If necessary, repeat the process until the desired results are achieved.

Precautions and Considerations

While toothpaste can be effective for removing light scratches, it is important to exercise caution. Using the wrong type of toothpaste or applying too much pressure can potentially cause more harm than good, leading to additional scratches or a dulled finish. Additionally, toothpaste may not be effective for deeper scratches, and in such cases, it may be necessary to explore other repair options or seek professional assistance.

Applying Vaseline or any petroleum jelly-based cream

To begin the process, clean the scratched area of your LCD monitor with isopropyl alcohol. This step ensures that any dirt or debris around the scratch is removed. Use a soft cloth or a cotton bud to gently apply the alcohol, being careful not to let it seep into the edges of the screen as it can damage the electronics.

Once the area is thoroughly cleaned, take a small amount of Vaseline or any petroleum jelly-based cream on a cotton swab or a clean finger. Gently rub the product into the scratch, working it in gently to fill and blend it with the surrounding area. This technique helps to smooth out the sharp edges of the scratch, allowing light to pass through without being distorted.

After applying the Vaseline or petroleum jelly, use a microfiber cloth to remove any excess product from the screen. This step ensures that the screen is left clean and free of any greasy residue. It is important to use a microfiber cloth designed for cleaning glass or electronic screens to avoid causing any additional scratches.

While this method can help reduce the visibility of scratches on LCD monitors, it is important to note that it may not completely remove deep scratches. Additionally, always exercise caution when applying any substance to your electronic devices, as there is a risk of further damage if the product seeps into the wrong areas. Always test any method on a small area first and be gentle in your application.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Vaseline or any petroleum jelly-based cream to reduce the appearance of scratches on your LCD monitor, restoring its aesthetic appeal and improving your viewing experience.

Using windscreen or glass polish

If you have deep scratches on your LCD monitor, you can try using automobile windscreen polish or plastic polish to remove them. These products may be a bit expensive, but they can be effective in reducing the appearance of scratches. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use windscreen or glass polish to remove scratches:

• Prepare the necessary materials: You will need to purchase an automobile windscreen polish or a plastic polish designed for this purpose. Examples include Novus Fine Scratch Remover and Rolite Ultra Fine Scratch Remover. You will also need a soft microfiber cloth.
• Clean the screen: Before applying any polish, ensure that your screen is clean and free of dust or dirt. You can use a soft, clean cloth to gently wipe down the screen.
• Apply the polish: Follow the instructions on your chosen product and apply a small amount of the polish directly to the scratch or scratches. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this may further damage the screen.
• Buff the area: Using your microfiber cloth, gently buff the polished area in circular motions. This will help to fill in the scratch and reduce its visibility.
• Review your results: Once you have finished buffing, take a step back and review the screen. If the scratch is still visible, you may need to reapply the polish and buff the area again.
• Follow up with a screen protector: After removing the scratches, it is a good idea to apply a screen protector to your LCD monitor. This will help to prevent future scratches and keep your screen in optimal condition.

It is important to note that while windscreen or glass polish can be effective for reducing the appearance of scratches, they may not completely remove deep scratches. Additionally, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines before applying any cleaning agents or polishes to your LCD monitor.

Frequently asked questions