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

Scratches on your monitor can be frustrating, especially when they impact your viewing experience. While deep scratches may require a professional fix or screen replacement, there are several remedies you can try at home to remove or reduce the appearance of scratches. These methods vary in risk and effectiveness, but many people have found success with some of these techniques.

Methods to Remove Scratches from a Monitor

Using a soft eraser

To use this method, simply rub the scratch left and right with the eraser for about 60 seconds, and then rub it up and down for another 60 seconds. The friction will soften the eraser, and it will fill in the scratch. Just be careful not to press down too hard!

After you're done, use a microfiber towel to brush off any eraser residue. This method is low-risk and won't cause any further damage to your monitor. It's a simple and effective way to remove light scratches and improve the appearance of your monitor.

While this method works well for light scratches, deeper scratches may require a different approach, such as using isopropyl alcohol or windscreen polish. However, these methods come with a slightly higher risk of damage, so it's important to proceed with caution.

Additionally, keep in mind that if the scratch is too deep, it might be necessary to replace the entire screen. Nonetheless, the soft eraser method is a great first step to try and improve the appearance of your monitor.

Applying isopropyl alcohol

To clean your monitor with isopropyl alcohol, you will need a lint-free cloth and a container filled with 99% pure isopropyl alcohol. Start by dipping your cloth in the container of alcohol and gently wiping away any grime from your screen without applying too much pressure. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and avoid using paper towels or any other cloth that may contain fibres. If you are concerned about dust or other contaminants on the monitor, use a small piece of tape to pick up excess dust before cleaning the screen with isopropyl alcohol.

After cleaning, it is important to let the monitor dry completely before turning it on again. This will ensure that no smudges are left behind. Allow at least five minutes for a regular monitor, and overnight for laptops. The liquid will evaporate faster in warmer weather than in colder.

When using isopropyl alcohol, it is important to be careful not to get it inside the edges of the screen, as it can damage the electronics. Also, avoid using an isopropyl alcohol solution containing more than 50% alcohol, as this can over-dry the screen.

Using abrasive toothpaste

Toothpaste, especially the paste-based variety, contains mild abrasives that act as fine polishing agents. When applied to a scratched surface, the toothpaste gently wears down the uneven edges of the scratch, making it less visible or even removing it entirely.

To remove scratches from a monitor using toothpaste, first clean the screen with a soft brush and a cleaning cloth. You don't want to add more scratches by rubbing dirt on the screen. Next, apply a small amount of non-abrasive toothpaste to a soft cloth or cotton swab. It is important to use non-abrasive toothpaste with an RDA (Radioactive Dentin Abrasiveness) value below 70-80. Stay away from advanced toothpaste products designed for whitening or sensitive teeth, as they tend to be more abrasive.

Once the toothpaste is on the cloth or swab, use gentle, circular motions to rub it onto the scratched area of the monitor screen. Be patient and avoid applying too much pressure. For larger scratches, you may need to apply more pressure and spend more time rubbing the toothpaste in.

Finally, clean the screen with a clean cloth, and the scratches should be less noticeable or completely gone! If the scratches are still visible, you can repeat the process as necessary.

While toothpaste can be effective for removing micro-scratches, it is important to exercise caution. Using the wrong technique or a highly abrasive toothpaste can potentially cause more harm than good, leaving the screen with additional scratches or a dulled finish.

Applying Vaseline or another petroleum jelly-based product

If you have a scratch on your monitor, you may be able to fill it in with Vaseline or another petroleum jelly-based product. This method is low-risk and can be effective in hiding scratches on matte plastic screens. It is important to note that this method may not work on glossy glass screens.

To use this method, gently rub a small amount of Vaseline or petroleum jelly into the scratch. Use a wet wipe to blot up any excess and smooth out the surface. This should help to fill in the rough edges of the scratch, making it more transparent and less noticeable. If it doesn't work, you can always wipe off the Vaseline or petroleum jelly.

One user reported that this method filled out their scratch completely, and they couldn't see it at all afterward. Another user noted that they had to reapply the product every year or two when the scratch became visible again. Additionally, after applying Vaseline, you may be able to apply a screen protector over the scratch to prevent further damage.

While this method can be effective in hiding scratches, it is important to note that it is not a permanent solution. If the scratch is affecting the pixels underneath, you may need to replace the panel or upgrade to a new monitor.

Using windscreen or glass polish

If you have deep scratches on your monitor, you can try using automobile windscreen or glass polish. These polishes may be costly, but they can help remove scratches. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use windscreen or glass polish to remove scratches:

Step 1: Prepare the necessary materials

Before you begin, gather the required materials. You will need a bottle of windscreen or glass polish, a soft cloth or sponge, and, optionally, a fine piece of sandpaper (2000 grit).

Step 2: Clean the screen

Before applying any polish, ensure that the screen is clean and free of dirt or dust. Use a soft, clean cloth to gently wipe down the screen. If needed, you can use a mild cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol to help remove any stubborn grime. However, be cautious not to let any liquid seep into the edges of the screen, as it may damage the electronics.

Step 3: Apply the polish

Now, carefully apply the windscreen or glass polish to the scratched area. Follow the instructions on the product label for specific directions. Generally, you will want to apply a small amount of the polish directly to the scratch and the immediate area around it. Be careful not to use too much product, as excess polish may cause new scratches to appear.

Step 4: Buff the scratch

Using a clean, soft cloth or sponge, gently buff the polish into the scratch. Work the polish into the scratch using gentle, circular motions. Continue buffing for a few minutes, or as directed by the product instructions. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, especially if you are using a sponge, as it may cause further damage to the screen.

Step 5: Remove excess polish

Once you have finished buffing, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess polish from the screen. Be sure to remove all traces of the polish from the screen to avoid any residue buildup.

Step 6: Assess the results

After you have completed the above steps, take a moment to review your work. Inspect the screen to see if the scratch has been removed or reduced in appearance. If the scratch is still visible and is impairing the visual presentation of the monitor, you may need to explore other options, such as purchasing a new screen cover or replacing the screen entirely.

It is important to note that while windscreen or glass polish can be effective for deep scratches, they may not completely remove all signs of scratching. Additionally, always exercise caution when working with screens, as applying too much pressure or using the wrong tools can potentially damage the screen further.

Frequently asked questions