How to Clean a Fish Finder Screen (6 safely methods)

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A clear and bright fish finder screen is important as it enables you to read the details easily. Today, modern fish finders are using imaging sonar technology which has made screen clarity an important factor. Smudges are some of the things that can affect the good visibility of your fish finder screen, cell phones, and other electronics.

Most affordable fish finders are made with plastic screen lenses, while the expensive ones are made of anti-reflective coating.

You must exercise many precautions when cleaning the fish finder screen of your boat since you will not use the typical methods.

Things You Should Avoid Doing When Cleaning Your Fish Finder

When your fish finder screen is dirty, you have to clean it before you go out fishing. There are things you should never use.

Here are some of the essential things to avoid when cleaning your fish finder:

  • Do not clean the fish finder screen using abrasives, as they can cause damage to the screen. Abrasives cause scratches on the fish finder screen, making it blurry hence difficult to read.
  • Paper towels can also scratch the delicate surface of your screen.
  • Do not use cleaners containing alcohol or ammonia, as they could damage the screen. Ammonia-based cleaners can damage the reflective coating in the fish finder screen. Although you might find them effective in doing away with water spots, they will damage the anti-reflective feature when used for long periods. This makes feedback challenging to see when it comes to contact with sunlight or other ambient light.
  • Some individuals will suggest using rain x as a fish finder screen cleaner. Never use it since it is made from polymer material and can cover the anti-reflective screen.

Top 6 Ways to Clean a Fish Finder Screen

There are different methods you can use to clean the fish finder surface.

In this section, we will be taking you through the top six reliable ways you can count on when it comes to fish finder screen cleaning. 

Here are the 6 most reliable ways how to clean fish finder screen.

DIY Methods

Power the fish finder down and unplug it from the source of power. Use a clean and soft piece of cloth dampened with simple water to clean the screen safely. Apply soap to help remove stubborn spots. 

Use a soft dry cloth to remove soap residue while cleaning the device’s screen. Ensure the screen is dry before you power on the fish finder. 

Utilize Windex with Vinegar

Mixing Windex and vinegar will help safely clean a fish finder screen.

Using a spray bottle, spray the Windex multisurface solution on the fish finder screen.

Use a clean and soft cloth to wipe it off. Use the vinegar to remove any grime or dirt on the screen.

Use Specialty Cleaners

Different types of specialty cleaners in the market will help clean your fish finder screen while protecting it from grime and dirt.

The wide variety of specialty cleaner brands has made it quite challenging for anglers to choose one that suits them best.

Ammonia-free sparkle glass cleaner is the most popular specialty cleaner in the market.

Sparkle Glass Cleaner

It is an affordable yet effective method of cleaning the fish finder screen. You will need a clean and soft piece of cloth and a sparkle of glass cleaner.

Spray the sparkle cleaner on the piece of cloth and wipe the fish finder screen.

Vinegar and Water

Pure vinegar and water works great when cleaning the fish finder screen.

You will have to be cautious when they contain mild acid. Hence, you should apply only 1 part of vinegar to 16 parts of water. Vinegar will help remove grease, dust, and any grime from the lens.

Dish Soap and Water

Using dish soap and water is a very cost-effective way to clean your fish finder. You only need dish soap and water solution in a small spray bottle and a soft cloth.

Spray the solution onto the fabric and wipe it on the screen. After that, use a damp and clean soft cloth to rinse the fishfinder screen. 

Some Pro Tips on:

Fish finders are an important tool for anglers. However, they can be quite frustrating when not clean. 

To help ensure you keep clean fish finder screens, we have listed important tips to help you. 

Distilled water will work great in preventing the formation of any residues or streaks on the screen. 

Clean the fish finder using a microfiber cloth. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasives to avoid damaging your fish finder screen.  

Apply small amounts of vinegar to help loosen any debris or dirt that will not come off from simple cleaning. 

Exercise precaution when cleaning the fish finder display to prevent the formation of water spots.