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How to Clean an iPad Screen

Don't let a dirty screen hinder your view

By Patrick Shawn Hearn Patrick Shawn Hearn Writer Columbus State University Patrick Hearn has been a freelance technology writer for 6+ years. He has written for CBSi, GameSpot, Xfinity, and many others. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on May 10, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Apple iPad Macs

What to Know

Use a microfiber cloth or a soft, lint-free cloth dipped in water (no cleaning supplies or solvents).Unplug your iPad, turn it off, and remove the protective case if you have one.Use gentle, side-to-side movements to clean the entire screen, avoid getting moisture in any openings. This article explains how to clean an iPad screen. Cleaning an iPad is part of the regular maintenance needed to keep your tablet in tip-top shape.

What You Need

If the touchscreen is smudged and smeared from repeated taps or some other reason, take the proper precautions as you clean it. The wrong type of cloth can cause damage. Before you clean your iPad, collect a few cleaning supplies: Microfiber cloth: If one isn't available, a soft, lint-free cloth also works. If you wear glasses, the small square you use to clean your glasses works perfectly for the iPad.Water: You'll need to wet the cloth, but use only water. Never use cleaning supplies or solvents. These break down the protective coating on the iPad. Computer Component & Accessory Reviews & Buying Guides

How to Clean Your iPad

To make an iPad screen look brand new: Unplug the iPad if it's charging or connected to a computer. Turn off the iPad. If the iPad is in a protective case, carefully remove the case. Lightly dampen the cloth with water. If the cloth is too wet, squeeze the water out of the cloth. Don't use cleaners or solvents, and make sure the cloth is free of lint. Wipe the screen with the cloth. Start at the top and use gentle, side-to-side movements to clean the entire screen. Avoid getting moisture in any openings such as the camera or headphone jack. Allow the iPad to air dry. Replace the protective case.

Continued Care of Your iPad

Because iPads are primarily touch-based, the iPad screen should be cleaned often. Keep in mind, however, that iPads have an oleophobic coating on the screen that repels the oils from fingers. Over time, this coating wears down from normal use and using an abrasive cloth or solvents accelerates this effect. Clean tempered glass screen protector the same way, but make sure that moisture doesn't get under the glass screen. If moisture does get inside the iPad, get support from Apple or a take it to a certified repair shop. FAQ Can you use alcohol wipes to clean an iPad screen? No. Diluted alcohol may be safe, but pure alcohol will damage your iPad's screen.
Can you use eyeglass cleaner on an iPad screen? No. Cleaners for lenses can strip away your iPad screen's protective coating. How do you clean under an iPad screen? If there is dirt under the screen, take your iPad to an Apple Store where you can have your device professionally serviced. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Clean a Magic Keyboard How to Clean a Wireless Mouse How to Physically Clean Your Laptop How to Clean a MacBook Screen How to Clean Headphones and Earbuds How to Fix a Chromebook Touchscreen That's Not Working How to Clean a Camera Lens How to Clean a Projector Lens How to Clean a Flat Screen TV Clean Fungus From Your Camera Lens How to Clean a Mechanical Keyboard How to Fix PS4 Controller Drift How to Clean a PS5 Console How to Clean AirPods How to Clean Your Phone and Screen How to Clean a PS4 Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies