I’ve noticed imprints of keys on my Dell Inspiron 13-inch screen. They won’t come off with a wet cloth, and I’m worried they are permanent scratches.
If you can eventually wipe them off, they’re not permanent. Remember, oils and dirt can act like sandpaper over time, scratching your screen if not cleaned regularly.
To prevent this in the future, place a thin microfiber cloth over the keyboard when closing your laptop.
Brigham said:
To prevent this in the future, place a thin microfiber cloth over the keyboard when closing your laptop.
This issue isn’t unique to Dell. Asus Vivobooks also suffer due to thin rubber padding. Does anyone know if other brands have this problem?
@Levi
MacBooks used to have a similar issue. Not sure if it’s still a problem.
If it’s more than just dust, then they could be permanent.
Yes, they are permanent.
Try cleaning with a slightly damp microfiber cloth and a bit of dish soap. If these marks are due to dirt or oil, they should come off. If they’re scratches from the keys touching the screen, especially from being squeezed in a packed bag, they might be permanent.
@Payne
I’ve been carrying my laptop in a tightly packed messenger bag for a year, which likely caused this.
Sidney said:
@Payne
I’ve been carrying my laptop in a tightly packed messenger bag for a year, which likely caused this.
You should use a soft layer like the original packing paper or a paper towel between the keyboard and screen to prevent this.
It’s probably just oil and dirt from the keyboard. Regular cleaning should prevent permanent marks.
These are permanent marks from keyboard pressure. I suggest using a screen protector to avoid such damage in the future.
Try using a professional cleaning spray designed for cameras and sensitive electronics.
Did the marks wipe off? I had a similar issue with an Asus that didn’t go away.
It’s surprising that laptops still have this issue after decades. You’d think designs would have evolved to prevent it.
Those marks are scratches on the screen, they are indeed permanent.
Just wipe it off, it should come clean.
I tried wiping them off, but it seems they are permanent now.