I recently snagged a fantastic deal on a pre-owned 37″ flat-screen TV that works perfectly and looks great – except for one glaring flaw. There’s a deep scratch on one corner of the screen that’s hard to miss, especially when the TV is turned off. I’ve heard about the “eraser trick” for removing scratches, but I was hesitant to try it because I’ve also heard that it can leave a smudgy mess.
As a tech enthusiast, I was determined to find a solution to my scratch problem, so I did some research on different methods that could help. In this blog post, I’ll share what I’ve learned about repairing deep scratches on flat TV screens, including the eraser trick and other potential solutions.
Some Precautions to Take in Fixing Flat TV Scratches
Be Gentle
You should be as gentle as possible when applying the tips in this article. Gentle handling of the tools used is key to achieving the goal. Being gentle is necessary because the screen is the most delicate part of the TV, and it can break if not handled with care.
Use Only Recommended Materials
Do not attempt to replace any of the materials mentioned in this post. Make an effort to get the necessary materials and avoid settling for something similar.
For example, you may damage the screen beyond repair if you use other alcohol instead of isopropyl alcohol.
So, you must stick to the materials we mention here.
Ascertain if You Can Fix the Scratch
How would you differentiate a scratch you can handle and one you cannot repair?
There are levels to TV screen scratches, and here are some tips to guide you on the kinds of scratches you should not fix by yourself.
Don’t fix it yourself if you feel some wetness around the scratch. Also, do not try to fix a scratch if pictures around the scratch area do not display well.
But if the TV displays well even with scratches, you can apply the tips in this post to fix it.
For a scratch that you cannot fix yourself, consult your TV brand’s customer service if you’re under warranty. Otherwise, consult a professional.
DIY Ways to Fix a Deep TV Scratch on a Flat TV Screen:
Again, it is important to note that fixing a flat TV scratch permanently may not be possible, but there are ways to reduce the visibility of the scratch and make it almost unnoticeable. Here are some tips to safely fix a deep TV scratch on a flat TV screen:
Method 1: Apply Petroleum Jelly or Colgate Toothpaste
Petroleum jelly or Colgate toothpaste can help fill the scratch and make it less noticeable. To apply, turn off the TV and unplug it from the power source. Wipe the scratch area clean, and then apply a thick coat of petroleum jelly or toothpaste to the scratch. Rub the petroleum jelly slowly with a soft cloth, making sure it is clean. Repeat the process if necessary.
Method 2: Apply Isopropyl Alcohol to Fix the Deep Scratch on your TV Screen
Isopropyl alcohol mixed with water can also fix a flat TV screen scratch. Follow these steps to safely apply:
- Turn off the TV and unplug it.
- Mix the isopropyl alcohol with water in equal proportions.
- Wipe the scratch surface with the solution using a soft cloth.
- Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the scratch.
- Wipe the scratch softly with the soft cloth with an isopropyl mixture.
Method 3: Applying Auto Rubbing Compound and Lacquer
Another way to fix a deep scratch on your flat TV screen is to use auto-rubbing compound and lacquer. Follow these steps to apply:
- Turn off the TV.
- Clean the screen gently.
- Add some auto-rubbing compound to the scratch area.
- Rub the compound gently over the scratch with a soft cloth.
- Clean the scratch surface again with the isopropyl mixture.
- Leave the TV for a few minutes to dry.
- Spray lacquer over the scratch area. You may cover the remaining part of the screen to avoid spraying lacquer over it.
- Leave the screen to dry again.
Method 4: The Pencil Eraser Method, and Other Tips
I suggest using the pencil eraser method as a supplementary technique to the previous methods discussed. My daughter was kind enough to lend me one of her many pencils and was very curious why I need it in the first place. I wasn’t going to explain to her because I didn’t need more scratches on my already beat-up TV.
Follow these steps:
- Turn off and unplug the TV.
- Clean the scratch surface with a mixture of isopropyl and water.
- Gently rub the surface of the scratch with a soft pencil eraser.
- Clean the surface with a soft cloth.
Note that this method is most effective for small scratches. For deeper scratches, it is best to use other methods or seek professional help.
Method 5: Get a TV Scratch Repair Kit
You can purchase a TV scratch repair kit in the market, which is designed to fix scratches on TV screens. There are kits available for different brands, so be sure to choose the one that matches your TV.
Most kits contain polishing paste and a microfiber cloth, but some may include additional items. Be sure to follow the instructions provided with the kit carefully.
Method 6: Visit a Professional
If you are still unable to fix the scratch on your flat TV screen using any of the methods above, consider visiting a professional TV repairer. They are trained specialists in fixing electronics and appliances and can assess the extent of the damage to your TV screen. They will also advise you on whether to repair or replace the TV.
While this option is the safest way to repair a TV screen scratch, it can be expensive. Therefore, it’s best to try the previous methods first before considering professional help.
If your TV is still under warranty, you should also consider visiting your brand’s customer care center for professional service or a replacement.
How to Protect Your TV Screen From Getting Scratched
It is better to prevent your TV from getting scratched than to fix the scratch. While you can repair the screen, your TV will not look the same as when you bought it. See the following precautions to prevent your TV from having a scratch.
Keep the TV in a Fixed Position
Moving your TV around will do more harm than good, and it can easily cause a screen scratch. Therefore, you need to find a permanent space for the TV. An excellent example of a safe place for your TV is mounting it on the wall or a TV stand.
Do not Use Harmful Objects to Clean the TV
Regularly cleaning your TV is necessary. But, you must do it with the proper cleaning materials. Do not clean the TV with tissue paper, paper towels, or cloth. These materials will do the opposite of what you intend to achieve – they will leave scratches on the screen over time. Always use a microfiber cloth or a non-abrasive material to clean the TV screen.
Do not Apply Pressure on the TV!
Flat TVs are very fragile and may not withstand pressure without any scratches. The TV should always stand by itself if it is not mounted. Avoid dropping things on it, and do not apply any pressure when cleaning it.
Keep Away From the Reach of Children
This goes without saying. One of the best ways to keep your TV safe is to mount it on the wall; that way, it is harder for kids to get to it. Your TV positioning may differ depending on the viewing angle and the room setup, either way, ensure kids can’t get to the TV easily. Children can easily scratch the screen with harmful objects, and while that will probably be exciting to them, it won’t be for you.
Use an LCD Screen Protector
You can protect your screen from all kinds of scratches by getting a screen protector. TV screen protectors will give your TV ultimate protection. Good thing they are available in different screen sizes. Screen protectors are easy to install and allow proper TV ventilation. They can also function as anti-glare screens, so you will not need an anti-glare filter.