Why It's Imperative You Only Use Distilled Water When Cleaning A TV

There's nothing like a layer of dust or a smudged fingerprint in the center of your TV to distract you from your favorite show. But unfortunately, like most household items, the television can also build up dust and grime. The good news is that cleaning a TV without streaks is a straightforward process that requires only the most basic of supplies: distilled water and a soft, scratch-free cloth. While you may be tempted to wet a cloth with tap water or reach for a screen cleaner, distilled water is the safest and most effective option. It's free of impurities you might find in tap water and harsher substances, such as alcohol or ammonia, that are contained in some screen or glass cleaners.

Of course, it's always a good idea to check the cleaning instructions from your TV manufacturer before you begin cleaning. Many will advise against using anything other than a microfiber cloth or distilled water, though some may allow additional methods. If you can't find the instructions, gentle, chemical-free cleaning is your safest bet.

While older box TVs had thick, durable glass screens, today's models feature LCD flat panel screens that are constructed of several thin layers, making them much more delicate. These screens usually feature anti-glare coatings, which reduce reflections in the screen but are easily damaged by harsh substances such as glass cleaner, ammonia, or alcohol. Even trace minerals found in tap water have the potential to cause streaks or residue on screens. Modern TVs are also pressure-sensitive and can be easily scratched. Using a paper towel, a rough rag, or pressing too hard while cleaning are big mistakes to avoid when cleaning a TV and can result in permanent damage.

The TV's delicate surface might make you hesitant to clean it, but there's no need to worry if you're using the right supplies. How often you need to clean your TV screen is usually a matter of dust levels in your home — and whether or not little sticky fingers touch the screen — but the steps are almost always the same. Start by dusting the TV with a soft microfiber cloth. Then, add a touch of distilled water to the cloth and gently go over any problem areas, such as fingerprints or sticky smudges. Distilled water has undergone a purification process that removes all minerals, impurities, and contaminants, ensuring it is free from substances that can scratch your screen or damage its coating.