Can you use water on Mac screen?

by
Can you use water on Mac screen

Using water to clean a Mac screen is generally not recommended. Water can damage the screen coating and internal components. However, there are some safe ways to use a small amount of water when cleaning a Mac screen.

Quick Answers

Can I use water to clean my Mac screen? No, you should avoid using water directly on a Mac screen as it can cause damage. A small amount of water on a soft microfiber cloth is okay.

Is it safe to use water on a MacBook screen? No, water should be avoided on MacBook screens. The water can seep beneath the screen and cause electrical issues.

What happens if water gets on a Mac screen? Water can cause issues like blurring, discoloration, dead pixels, and internal electrical damage. Turn off and dry out the Mac immediately.

What is the best way to clean a Mac screen? Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth slightly dampened with an Apple-approved screen cleaner or diluted isopropyl alcohol.

Using Water to Clean Mac Screens

The screens on iMacs, MacBooks, and other Mac computers have special coatings and layers designed to protect the display and enhance image quality. Directly applying water to the screen can strip away these coatings and cause permanent damage over time.

Even a small amount of water getting beneath the screen glass and reaching the internal components can cause issues like:

  • Blurring or discoloration
  • Dead, stuck or bright pixels
  • Internal shorts and electrical damage

For these reasons, experts strongly advise against using plain water to clean any Mac screen. At best, you risk degrading the display over time. At worst, water damage can ruin the screen immediately or down the road.

When Water Damage Occurs

If water is spilled directly on a Mac screen or gets beneath the glass, take action immediately:

  1. Turn off the Mac and unplug it from power.
  2. Gently wipe away any excess liquid from the screen with a dry microfiber cloth.
  3. Stand the Mac upright and allow it to fully air dry for at least 24 hours.
  4. Do not turn on the Mac until it is 100% dry.
  5. If issues like blurred areas or dead pixels appear when powered back on, take the Mac to Apple or a repair shop.

Water damage on a MacBook or iMac can often be repaired if addressed quickly. But if moisture reached the internal components and sat for a while, permanent board-level damage may occur.

Acceptable Cleaning Solutions

While plain water should be avoided, there are some wet cleaning methods that are safe for Mac screens when used properly:

  • Distilled water – Distilled water contains no minerals or contaminants that could be left behind on the screen. A few drops on a microfiber cloth can help cut through oil and grime.
  • Isopropyl alcohol – Diluted with distilled water, 70% isopropyl alcohol is effective at removing germs and dirt without stripping coatings.
  • Vinegar – Similarly, you can dilute white vinegar 1:1 with distilled water for an antimicrobial, streak-free clean.
  • Lens cleaners – Specially formulated lens or screen cleaners are safe for Mac displays when used sparingly on a cloth.

With any of these cleaning solutions, be sure to:

  • Use a very small amount – Just a few drops on the cloth.
  • Avoid excessive wiping or scrubbing.
  • Only use on the screen, not other surfaces.

Best Practices for Cleaning Mac Screens

Following these best practices will allow you to safely clean fingerprints, smudges and other dirt from Mac screens:

  1. Turn off the Mac and unplug it to prevent any accidental damage.
  2. Use a microfiber cloth designed for screens or eyeglasses. Soft cotton cloths can scratch.
  3. If using a liquid, dampen the cloth – never apply directly to the screen.
  4. Gently wipe in one direction, not in circles.
  5. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.
  6. Dry any excess moisture with a dry microfiber cloth.
  7. Check for debris stuck in edges and crevices.

With periodic cleaning using these steps, you can keep Mac screens looking like new without risking water damage.

Best Cleaning Tools for Mac Screens

Having the right tools makes cleaning Mac screens easier and safer. Here are some recommendations:

Microfiber Cloths

High-quality microfiber cloths are the best choice for wiping Mac screens without scratching. Look for cloths specifically designed for monitors and eyeglasses.

Screen Cleaning Sprays

Pre-moistened screen wipes or spray cleaners formulated for electronics prevent excess liquid. Popular brands include Whoosh!, Monster and Care Touch.

Canned Air

Keep canned air on hand to spray away dust and debris that gets trapped around edges and bezels.

Soft Brush or Swab

A brush with soft bristles or a cotton swab can help clean crevices and vents.

Homemade Screen Cleaner Recipe

You can easily make a DIY screen cleaner at home using:

  • 1 part distilled water
  • 1 part white vinegar or 70% isopropyl alcohol
  • A few drops of liquid soap (optional)

Mix the ingredients together in a spray bottle. The vinegar or alcohol cleans and disinfects, while the soap helps cut through oils. Shake well before each use and spray a small amount onto your microfiber cloth.

Should You Use Tap Water?

It’s best to avoid using tap water to clean Mac screens. Here’s why:

  • Contains minerals – Minerals left behind on the screen can create buildup and spotting over time.
  • Traces of chlorine – Chlorine is added to tap water for sanitization, but it can degrade coatings.
  • Potential contaminants – Tap water may contain traces of metals, bacteria and chemicals you don’t want on the screen.

Even if your tap water is safe to drink, it’s generally not the best choice for electronics. The small risk of impurities getting on the fragile screen outweigh the benefits.

Other Cleaning Methods to Avoid

It’s also important to steer clear of other questionable cleaning methods. Avoid:

  • Window cleaner – Ammonia is too harsh for Mac screens.
  • All-purpose cleaner – Can contain gritty ingredients that scratch.
  • Paper towels – Not absorbent enough and can scratch.
  • Common household wipes – May leave a film or chemicals behind.

Stick to microfiber cloths dampened with safe liquids to keep your Mac’s screen in good condition.

How to Dry a Mac Screen

If excess cleaning liquid gets on your Mac’s screen, dry it thoroughly before turning your device back on. Here’s how:

  1. Gently wipe away any pooled liquid with a dry microfiber cloth.
  2. Do not rub the screen – blot to absorb moisture.
  3. Use a cloth to soak up water trapped along edges and bezels.
  4. Stand the Mac upright and allow to fully air dry for at least 24 hours.
  5. Make sure no moisture appears on the screen before powering on again.

Following these drying steps can help prevent water damage issues after cleaning your Mac screen.

Signs of Water Damage on a Screen

How can you tell if water has caused damage to your Mac’s screen? Here are some signs to watch for:

  • Light or dark spots – Known as dead or stuck pixels.
  • Blurry or distorted areas – Due to damaged screen coatings.
  • Rainbow colors or lines – Indicate internal electrical shorts.
  • Cracked glass – Physical cracks from water freezing and expanding.
  • Dimming display – Due to moisture reaching backlight components.

If you notice any of these issues after exposing your Mac to moisture, take it to Apple or an authorized repair center immediately. Screen damage will likely get worse over time if left unchecked.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Mac’s screen with plain water is not recommended, as even a small amount can lead to blurring, discoloration, dead pixels and internal electrical damage over time. For safe cleaning, use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with distilled water, diluted isopropyl alcohol or a specially formulated screen cleaner. With proper care, you can keep Mac screens looking pristine.