How to Remove Scratches from a Phone Screen

Is your smartphone's screen marred by unsightly scratches? Whether you're dealing with minor surface imperfections or more noticeable marks, there are several DIY methods you can try to restore its smooth surface and clarity. Here's a detailed guide on how to effectively remove scratches from your phone screen using accessible materials and techniques.

1. Using Toothpaste

Toothpaste isn't just for cleaning teeth—it can also be used to buff out scratches on plastic phone screens:

Materials Needed: Toothpaste (preferably non-gel), soft cloth or cotton swab.

Application:

• Apply a small amount of toothpaste directly onto the scratched area.

• Gently rub the toothpaste in circular motions with a soft cloth or cotton swab.

• Continue buffing until the scratch diminishes or becomes less noticeable.

Cleaning: Once satisfied, clean off any excess toothpaste with a damp cloth and then polish with a dry cloth.

2. Using Glass Polish

For more durable glass screens, glass polish offers a stronger solution to remove scratches:

Materials Needed: Glass polish (cerium oxide), soft cloth, masking tape (to protect non-screen areas).

Application:

• Mix the glass polish with water to form a slurry (if using powdered cerium oxide).

• Apply the slurry to the scratched area using a soft cloth, rubbing in circular motions.

• Periodically wipe away the slurry to check progress and reapply as needed.

Finishing: After polishing, clean the screen thoroughly with a damp cloth and then dry with a microfiber cloth.

3. Using Magic Eraser or Pencil Eraser

For minor scratches, a magic eraser or pencil eraser can be surprisingly effective:

Materials Needed: Magic eraser (wetted), pencil eraser (new and clean).

Application:

• Wet the magic eraser slightly to soften its abrasiveness.

• Gently rub the scratched area with small circular motions.

• Repeat until the scratch diminishes or disappears.

Caution: This method may remove the phone's oleophobic coating, so consider applying a new coating or screen protector afterward.

Additional Tips to Prevent Scratches

Prevention is key to maintaining a scratch-free phone screen:

• Use a Screen Protector: Invest in a quality screen protector, such as tempered glass, to provide an extra layer of protection.

• Regular Cleaning: Wipe your phone screen regularly with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt, oil, and debris that can cause scratches.

• Safe Storage: Avoid placing your phone in pockets with keys or coins to prevent accidental scratches.

Conclusion

With these effective DIY methods, you can tackle scratches on your phone screen and restore its smooth appearance without needing professional intervention. Whether you opt for toothpaste, glass polish, or erasers, follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results. Remember to prioritize prevention by using screen protectors and maintaining regular cleaning practices to keep your phone screen looking pristine for longer.

Related

• 7 quick tips for cleaning TV screens

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