What to clean a plasma TV with?

What Should I Clean a Plasma TV With?

• Answer:

  Like any other piece of equipment, a plasma screen TV requires regular maintenance in order to work properly. The screen may become dingy and spotted if left untreated, while dust may accumulate on the top and the sides of the set. However, because plasma screens constitute a unique form of technology, you can't use the same cleaning techniques you would for a piece of furniture or for an older, cathode ray tube (CRT) TV. Cloth Rough cloths and paper towels are too abrasive to use on plasma screens. The wood pulp in the paper towel can scratch the screen, as can the fibers in a rough cloth. Instead, use a very soft cloth, preferably one that is lint-free. The softer, the better. Make sure the cloth is designed for use while wet or damp; use a microfiber cloth if you can. Cleanser Do not be tempted to use even a mild commercial cleanser on your plasma screen. Such cleansers often contain alcohol, which can strip the screen of its coating and damage the image. If possible, clean the screen with a dry cloth, using no cleansers at all. If you must use a cleanser, mix water with a very small amount of detergent (one part detergent to 100 parts water). Dip the cloth in it, then wring the extra water out so that it is slightly damp. Rub the screen gently with the cloth, taking care not to grind any smudges or stains. When you're finished, dry the screen completely with a second (dry) soft cloth. Cleaning the Frame Like the plasma screen itself, the plastic frame around the screen requires a soft, lint-free cloth. The plastic is more durable than the screen, but always dust carefully. Make sure the cloth stays dry; moisture of any sort could get into the electronics and damage the TV. Other Warnings Keep other cleaning sprays away from the plasma screen TV. If you are cleaning the shelves around it, or other objects nearby, spray the cleanser on a cloth away from the TV, then apply the cloth directly to the nearby area. Never touch the screen with your bare hands; it could leave fingerprints and other smudges, and your nails may scratch the surface. Your plasma TV may have other cleaning instructions specific to its brand. Consult your owner's manual about any further steps you need to take, as well as how frequently you should clean your TV.