Quick Answer
It is generally not recommended to use regular glasses cleaner on a MacBook screen. Many glass cleaners contain ingredients like ammonia, alcohol, acetone or ethyl acetate which can damage the coatings on a MacBook screen. It’s best to use a specially formulated screen cleaner or a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with just water to safely clean a MacBook screen.
Should You Use Glasses Cleaner on a MacBook Screen?
The screens on MacBooks and other laptops are different from regular glass surfaces. They have special coatings on them that make the image clearer, reduce glare, and even protect them from fingerprints and smudges. These coatings are vulnerable to damage from harsh chemicals found in many glass cleaners.
Using a glass cleaner that contains ingredients like ammonia, ethyl alcohol, acetone or ethyl acetate can permanently damage the coatings on a MacBook screen. This can lead to a foggy, blurred appearance or even scratches and other abrasions over time.
Apple specifically advises against using glass cleaners or other chemical solutions to clean MacBook screens. Their official support site says:
“Don’t use aerosol sprays, solvents, abrasives, or cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide or bleach that might damage the finish and the coating on the screen.”
So if you value the pristine condition of your MacBook display, it’s generally best to avoid glass cleaners and use a more gentle, specially designed screen cleaner instead. The wrong cleaner can do irreparable damage.
Ingredients to Avoid in Screen Cleaners
Here are some of the most common ingredients found in glass and household cleaners that you’ll want to avoid using on a MacBook screen:
Ammonia
Ammonia is a harsh chemical commonly found in glass and multi-surface cleaners. It can strip away coating layers and lead to foggy patches on laptop screens and monitors. Prolonged exposure can also gradually erode the anti-glare properties of a MacBook screen.
Alcohol
Most glass cleaners contain some type of alcohol, usually ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol or denatured alcohol. While fine for cleaning glass, alcohol can cause coatings and anti-glare layers to break down over time with repeated exposure. This leads to a worn, pitted look on the screen surface.
Acetone
Acetone is another chemical sometimes used in stronger glass and household cleaners. It is an aggressive solvent that can dissolve many plastics and coatings. Even short-term exposure to acetone-based cleaners can damage MacBook screens.
Ethyl Acetate
Ethyl acetate is found in some glass cleaners as a powerful degreasing agent. However, it is also an ester that can interact negatively with coatings on screens. Ethyl acetate-based cleaners should always be avoided for LCD displays.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Some disinfecting cleaners contain hydrogen peroxide, which can degrade anti-glare and anti-fingerprint coatings if left on the screen for longer than the recommended contact time. Repeated use should be avoided.
Best Practices for Cleaning a MacBook Screen
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when cleaning your MacBook screen safely and effectively:
DO:
- Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth designed for screens
- Dampen the cloth lightly with plain water if needed
- Gently wipe the screen using minimal pressure
- Start from the top of the screen and work down
- Avoid excessive wiping or scrubbing
- Use a specially-formulated monitor/screen cleaner if desired
- Always turn off the MacBook before cleaning the screen
DON’T:
- Use paper towels, tissues or other rough materials
- Spray any cleaners directly onto the screen
- Use aerosol sprays or atomized cleaners
- Use abrasive pads, cloths or scrubbers
- Use solutions with ammonia, alcohol, acetone, ethyl acetate
- Allow moisture into any openings or vents
- Over-saturate the cloth or screen with liquid
- Apply excessive force or pressure
Following these basic guidelines will ensure you safely clean fingerprints, dust, oils and other contaminants off the screen while protecting the coatings and specialized layers that enable the crisp, vibrant image quality MacBook displays are known for.
Recommended Screen Cleaners for MacBooks
It’s best to use screen cleaners specially formulated for use on sensitive LCD displays and monitors. Here are some top options recommended for safely cleaning MacBook screens:
1. Whoosh! Screen Cleaner Kit
This screen cleaning kit comes with a spray bottle of cleaning solution and a soft microfiber cloth. The formula is non-toxic, non-streaking, and safe for all screens. It contains no ammonia, alcohol, or acetone. The cloth is durable and can be washed and reused.
2. Care Touch LCD Screen Cleaning Kit
Care Touch offers a handy screen cleaning kit with a spray bottle of LCD cleaner and a microfiber cloth. The formula is designed specifically for LCD monitors and laptop screens. It cleans without leaving residue or greasy smears. The antimicrobial microfiber cloth is scratch-resistant.
3. Screen Mom Screen Cleaner Spray
Screen Mom makes a moist, anti-static screen cleaning spray that is safe for all screens. It helps dissolve oils, dust, fingerprints, and smudges without any dripping or running. The formula contains no ammonia, alcohol or fragrance. It’s non-abrasive and won’t leave streaks.
4. MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
These microfiber cloths from MagicFiber are designed specifically for cleaning sensitive screens without chemicals or liquids. The ultra-fine microfiber traps dust and oils without scratching. It can be washed and reused multiple times. This is an good eco-friendly option.
5. Endust Electronic Wipes
Endust makes pre-moistened screen cleaning wipes that are safe for laptops, tablets, phones and other electronics. These lint-free cloths dissolve dirt, dust, fingerprints and smudges quickly. They contain no ammonia, streak-free formula dries fast without residue.
DIY Options for Cleaning a MacBook Screen
If you don’t have a specialized screen cleaner on hand, there are a few safe, DIY options you can mix up using ingredients from around the house:
1. Distilled Water
The minerals in tap water can leave spots and streaks when drying on a MacBook screen. Distilled water cleans the screen cleanly without any marks. Dampen your microfiber cloth slightly and wipe the screen gently.
2. Distilled Water and White Vinegar
For a bit of extra cleaning power, you can also create a solution with a 50/50 mix of distilled white vinegar and distilled water. Vinegar helps dissolve oil and grease buildup. Spray a light mist onto your cloth and wipe.
3. Distilled Water and Isopropyl Alcohol
Using a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water is generally safe for screens. The solution helps lift away stubborn oils and grime. Be very careful not to use too much and wipe gently with this combination.
Always use only a tiny amount of any DIY cleaner on your cloth rather than spraying it directly on the screen. Test on a small area first and never allow any liquids to seep into vents or ports.
Other Tips for Cleaning a MacBook Screen
Here are a few other useful tips to keep in mind when cleaning and caring for your MacBook display:
– Wipe the screen gently using only very light pressure. Scrubbing aggressively can wear down coatings.
– Always turn off and unplug your MacBook before cleaning the screen. This protects sensitive electronics.
– Use a blower bulb or can of compressed air to dust the screen first before wiping it clean. This avoids abrasive particles.
– Avoid touching or pressing on the screen with your fingers to prevent oils and fingerprints from building up.
– Keep the microfiber cloth only for screen cleaning. Don’t use it for other household cleaning.
– Wash reusable microfiber cloths frequently using mild detergent and warm water. Let them air dry before use.
– Check Apple’s support site for any additional cleaning recommendations for your specific MacBook model.
Signs Your MacBook Screen Needs Replacement
While careful cleaning can help maintain your display, sometimes screen damage can’t be repaired. Here are signs your MacBook screen may need professional replacement:
– Visible scratches, pits, eroded patches, or permanent discoloration
– Cracks, chips or dead pixels in the LCD panel
– Dark blotches or spreading stains/water damage
– Flickering, distorted, scrambled, or blurred display
– Unresponsive touchscreen functions
– Lines, bars or patches of dead pixels
If cleaning doesn’t restore your display to like-new condition, take your MacBook to an Apple store or authorized service provider for diagnosis. A technician can determine if the screen needs repair or replacement.
Conclusion
While glasses cleaner may be fine for eyeglasses, sunglasses, mirrors, and household windows, it should be avoided for cleaning MacBook screens and displays. The powerful chemicals these products contain can permanently damage the coatings and layers that enable MacBook screens to function at their best.
Instead, it’s safest to use a specially formulated LCD screen cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth when cleaning your MacBook display. Check the ingredients to make sure the cleaner doesn’t contain ammonia, alcohol, acetone or other harsh solvents. With proper care and cleaning, your MacBook’s screen can maintain vibrant image quality and clarity for years before needing replacement. Just be sure to use only the gentlest cleaners designed specifically for the job.