How To Prevent and Repair Scratches on Electronic Screens

At The Lab, we recognize how frustrating it can be to contend with scratches on your electronic screens. Whether it’s your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, scratches can significantly impact not only the visual appeal of your device but also its functionality.

A scratched or cracked screen can make it difficult to view content clearly, interfere with touch sensitivity, and generally detract from the overall user experience.

Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can take to prevent scratches from occurring in the first place, as well as effective methods for repairing them if they do happen.

Prevention is key to maintaining your device’s pristine condition, and with a few simple measures, you can greatly reduce the risk of scratches.

Additionally, knowing how to address minor scratches can help restore your screen’s clarity and ensure that your device stays in top shape.

In this blog post, we’ll explore practical tips for protecting your screens and provide insights into various repair techniques.

By following these recommendations, you can safeguard your electronic devices and keep them looking and performing their best.

How To Prevent Scratches On Your Screens

Use Screen Protectors

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent scratches is by applying a high-quality screen protector. These thin, transparent layers act as a shield against everyday wear and tear, including scratches from keys, coins, or other objects in your bag or pocket.

Choose a protector with a hardness rating of 9H for optimal scratch protection.

Invest In A Sturdy Case 

Pairing your device with a well-designed case can help shield the screen from direct contact with surfaces and accidental drops. Look for cases with raised edges or bezels that keep the screen slightly elevated when placed face-down.

Another feature to consider for your case is having the soft rubber /material set inside against your glass. Most cases have rubber on the outside and hard plastic against the glass of your device, which isn’t as effective. At The Lab, we recommend the Gear 4 brand for cases.

Clean Your Screen Regularly

Dirt and dust particles can cause scratches over time, especially if they’re dragged across the screen during cleaning. Use a soft, microfiber cloth to gently wipe the screen.

Avoid using paper towels or rough fabrics, and opt for cleaning solutions specifically designed for electronics. Never spray the solution on your device always on the cloth used to clean it.

Store Devices Properly 

Avoid tossing your device into a bag or pocket with sharp or abrasive items. Instead, keep your electronic devices in padded compartments or dedicated sleeves to minimize the risk of scratches.

Be Cautious with Cleaning Tools 

When using cleaning solutions, ensure they are suitable for electronic screens. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or chemicals like ammonia that can damage the screen’s coating and can damage the functionality itself.

How To Repair Screen Scratches

Before attempting any repairs, determine the severity of the scratch. Light, superficial scratches are often less problematic and can be addressed with simple methods, while deeper scratches should be handled by a professional.

Avoid These Popular DIY Fixes

DIY fixes for screen scratches, such as using baking soda paste or toothpaste, can often be ineffective or even harmful.

These methods can introduce moisture and abrasives that may damage your device further, leading to more severe scratches or other issues.

It’s best to avoid these techniques to prevent additional damage to your electronics.

Screen Repair Kits

You can consider using a screen repair kit specifically designed for your phone, tablet, or computer screen. However, we do not recommend these for DYI.

These will take coatings off the screen and essentially grinds/polishes the glass down and you have to recoat them to get them to work properly again. 

Professional Repair Or Replacement

In a professional repair setting, technicians can use advanced techniques, tools, and high-quality materials to address scratches and other screen issues more effectively than home remedies.

If necessary, our repair technicians perform more extensive repairs such as completely replacing damaged screens.

By choosing professional screen repair, you can make sure your device is handled with care and that the solution provided is tailored to your screen’s specific needs.

This approach not only restores the aesthetic appeal of your screen but also helps maintain its functionality and longevity, offering a more reliable and durable fix than DIY methods.

Is Replacement The Best Option?

In cases where scratches are extensive and affect functionality, replacing the screen might be the most viable option.

If that’s the case, our repair technicians will communicate with you about the best option for your device, whether a repair is possible, or if a screen replacement is the best choice.

The Lab Is Here To Help

Preventing scratches on electronic screens requires a combination of proactive care and timely intervention.

By using protective accessories, maintaining cleanliness, and employing effective repair techniques, you can keep your devices looking and performing their best. 

At The Lab, we’re here to help with tips, products, and services to ensure your electronics stay in top condition.

Schedule a repair appointment online using the button below, or stop in and see us at our storefront in downtown Warsaw during our regular business hours.

Our Hours

Monday: 10am – 5pm

Tuesday: 10am – 5pm

Wednesday: 12pm – 7pm

Thursday: 10am – 5pm

Friday: 10am – 7pm

Saturday: 10am-2pm

Sunday: Closed