A smudged MacBook display is annoying, but cleaning it the wrong way can be far worse. MacBook screens have a delicate anti-reflective coating that harsh chemicals and rough materials can strip or stain permanently. This guide shows you how to clean a MacBook screen safely, what to use, and what to keep far away from it.
What you need
- A clean, soft, lint-free microfibre cloth (the kind sold for eyeglasses or cameras works well).
- Water, ideally distilled to avoid mineral spots.
- Optionally, a second dry microfibre cloth for buffing.
If your MacBook has a nano-texture display, use only the polishing cloth that came with it or one approved for nano-texture glass.
Step-by-step: how to clean your MacBook screen
- Shut down and unplug. Turn the MacBook off and disconnect the charger and any accessories. A dark screen also makes smudges easier to see.
- Dust first. Wipe the screen gently with a dry microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and grit, which can scratch if you rub it around with a damp cloth.
- Lightly dampen the cloth, never the screen. Add a small amount of water to the cloth. It should be slightly damp, not wet. Never spray anything directly onto the display.
- Wipe gently. Use light pressure and smooth strokes from one side to the other. Don't scrub or press hard on stubborn spots.
- Dry and check. Buff with a dry part of the cloth, then let the screen air dry for a minute before closing the lid.
Be careful near the edges and the hinge so no moisture runs into the gap between the screen and the bottom case.
What never to use on a MacBook screen
- Window cleaner or anything with ammonia. These can dissolve the anti-reflective coating.
- Bleach, acetone, hydrogen peroxide or abrasive cleaners.
- Paper towels, tissues or kitchen sponges. They can leave lint and fine scratches.
- Aerosol sprays or soaking-wet cloths. Liquid can seep into the display edges.
Apple notes that 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes can be used gently on the hard, nonporous exterior surfaces of a Mac, but for the display itself, a water-dampened microfibre cloth is the safest everyday choice. When in doubt, use less liquid, not more.
Dealing with keyboard marks and stubborn stains
Do you see a pattern of the keyboard printed on your screen? Skin oils transfer from the keys when the lid is closed. A gentle wipe with a damp microfibre cloth usually removes them. If the marks won't come off, or you notice patchy areas that look like the coating is wearing away, that could be coating damage rather than dirt. Learn more in our guide to MacBook screen coating problems (staingate).
To prevent the marks in the first place, wash your hands before long work sessions and wipe the keyboard regularly. Be careful with thick keyboard covers and screen protectors, though. Our article on screen damage from closing the lid explains why.
How often should you clean it?
For most people, a quick dry dusting every few days and a damp wipe every week or two is plenty. Cleaning too often with too much pressure does more harm than good. Keep a dedicated microfibre cloth in your laptop bag and wash it regularly so it doesn't collect grit.
When to get your MacBook screen checked in Ottawa
If cleaning reveals cracks, pressure marks, lines, dark spots or peeling coating, the display may need professional attention. Fix Revolution provides MacBook screen replacement in Ottawa and Gatineau, with pickup and drop-off at your home or office. Most repairs are done in 1 to 2 business days, depending on parts availability. Get a free quote or call 613-265-4349 to describe what you're seeing.
Quick answers
Can I use alcohol to clean my MacBook screen?
A water-dampened microfibre cloth is the safest choice for the display. Never spray alcohol or any cleaner directly on the screen, and avoid products with ammonia, bleach or acetone.
Can I use glasses cleaner on a MacBook screen?
Many lens sprays contain alcohol or other chemicals. Unless the label says it's safe for coated laptop displays, stick with a bit of water on a microfibre cloth.
Why won't the marks on my screen come off?
If gentle cleaning doesn't remove them, the anti-reflective coating may be damaged. Scrubbing harder will make it worse, so have it assessed instead.