Touchscreen devices are handy, but you might not know how to clean your tablet. Sticky fingers and germs are two different types of messes you’ll want to clean after your toddler has handled your tablet. However, cleaning your tablet correctly is essential, or you could damage your screen.
Tablets and touchscreens are perfect for learning and little fingers. There’s no need to worry about clicking and a mouse; your little KneeBouncers‘ pointer finger can swipe that eBook from one page to the next. Or catch that cupcake if you’re playing Cupcake Catch.
But what’s not great about touchscreens? The fingerprint mess! Mainly when it includes sticky jelly, dirty fingers, and germs that your kiddo can leave behind.
Because screens are magnets for germs, it is recommended you clean them before and after your kids use them. Having kids wash their hands before and after using touchscreens is also a good idea. The more you can do to reduce germs spreading, the better!
But not all messes are germ-filled. Sometimes it’s dirty, sticky fingerprints you need to remove. So here are some tips on how to best clean your tablet.
Tips to Clean Your Tablet or Touchscreen Devices
- A dry, soft cloth, like an eyeglass cleaning cloth, will remove most fingerprints. Or use a cleaning tissue that is lint- and chemical-free. Microfiber cloths are best!
- Avoid premoistened lens-cleaning tissues to clean your screen. Many contain alcohol, which might damage the coating on your screen.
- NEVER use any household cleaners on your touchscreen. They can degrade the coating that keeps the screen from absorbing oil from your fingers.
- Always turn off your device before cleaning.
- If you elect to use a commercial touchscreen-targeted cleaning agent, avoid getting too much moisture around the edges of the screen.
Remember to have your child wash their hands before and after using a touchscreen device to reduce the mess and germs. Touchscreens should also be disinfected regularly. Clorox Disinfecting Wipes and Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes state they are safe for cellphones and tablet screens. However, we recommend reading all labels and even checking with your device’s manufacturer before using any products on your device.
Updated July 28th, 2023, by L. Elizabeth Forry
