How to Remove Scratches on Smartphone Screen? – DIY & Professional Solutions

Scratches on your phone screen can be a frustrating experience, but don’t let them ruin your device’s sleek appearance. Whether you own an smartphone from any brand: iPhone, Samsung, or Google Pixel, knowing how to effectively fix those pesky scratches is essential for maintaining your phone’s value and functionality. From the iPhone XS Max to the Samsung S21 Ultra, there are various repair methods tailored for each model.

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 effective techniques for screen scratch repair across popular devices, ensuring you can restore your phone to its former glory without breaking the bank.

Assess the Damage Before You Begin

Before attempting any fix, it’s important to assess the severity of the scratch. Light surface scratches can often be addressed at home, while deeper scratches might require professional attention. Here’s how to decide:

• Light Scratches: These can be felt with your fingernail but are not deep enough to affect the display.
• Deep Scratches: If your nail catches on the scratch, it might be too deep for DIY fixes and could require a screen replacement.

Pro Tip: For iPhone models with Ceramic Shield (like iPhone 12 and newer), scratches might be less likely but can still occur with heavy use.

Notes for Repairing Scratches on Phones Yourself

Important Notes for DIY Phone Scratch Repair:

• Power off: Always turn your phone off and remove the battery (if possible) before starting.
• Prevent liquid damage: Seal any ports with tape to avoid water getting inside.
• Mild scratches only: These methods work best for minor surface scratches. Seek professional help for deep scratches or cracks.
• Material matters: Use toothpaste for plastic screens, and glass polish for glass screens.
• Protect afterward: Once scratches are fixed, use a screen protector and case to prevent future damage.

10 DIY Solutionss to Get Rid of Phone Screen Scratches

If you have light scratches, here are 10 DIY methods to try. These techniques work on iPhone models, Samsung or alls and are effective if the scratches are minimal.

1. Use Toothpaste

Toothpaste’s mild abrasiveness helps buff out light scratches

This method involves utilizing the mild abrasive properties of toothpaste to eliminate scratches from the phone screen:

• Apply a non-gel toothpaste onto a soft, clean microfiber cloth.
• Rub the scratched area gently in circular motions for about 30 seconds.
• Wipe off excess toothpaste with a damp cloth, then buff the screen with a dry cloth.

Important Notes:

• Ensure the toothpaste is non-gel to avoid damaging the screen.
• Test on a small section first to check for any reactions.
• Avoid using toothpaste on screens with anti-glare or oleophobic coatings.

2. Glass Polish Method

Using fine abrasives for glass screen scratches

This method involves using glass polish, which contains fine abrasive particles designed to smooth out scratches on glass screens:

• Apply a small amount of glass polish to a microfiber cloth.
• Rub gently over the scratched area in circular motions.
• Continue buffing until scratches visibly reduce.
• Clean the screen with a damp cloth and dry it.

Important Notes:

• Use glass polish specifically made for screens.
• Avoid applying excessive pressure, which could cause more harm.
• Test on a discreet area first.

3. Magic Eraser or Pencil Eraser

Gently buffing away scratches

Magic erasers or pencil erasers work by mildly buffing the scratched area of your phone screen.

• Slightly moisten the eraser and rub over the scratched area in circular motions.
• Continue until the scratches appear to fade.
• Wipe the screen clean with a damp cloth and dry it.

Important Tips:

• Use minimal pressure to prevent further damage.
• Always test on a small area before full application.

4. Sandpaper or Drill Grinders

Handling deep scratches with precision

This method involves using fine-grit sandpaper or drill grinders to sand down deeper scratches on the phone screen:

• Select fine-grit sandpaper or a fine drill grinder bit.
• Lightly sand the scratched area in a circular motion.
• Avoid over-sanding or applying too much pressure.
• Clean the screen thoroughly afterward.

Important Notes:

• Exercise extreme caution when using abrasive tools.
• Keep debris away from phone ports and openings.

5. Eggshell and Potassium Aluminum Sulfate Paste

DIY solution for light scratches

A mixture of crushed eggshells and potassium aluminum sulfate forms a paste that can help reduce the appearance of scratches.

• Create a paste by mixing crushed eggshells with potassium aluminum sulfate.
• Apply the paste to the scratched area and let it sit.
• Rub gently with a soft cloth, then clean the area with a damp cloth.

Important Notes:

• Test on a small section to ensure compatibility.
• Be cautious of abrasive particles.

6. Vegetable Oil

Temporary solution for minor scratches

Vegetable oil can temporarily conceal minor scratches by filling them.

• Apply a small amount of vegetable oil to a soft cloth.
• Gently rub the scratched area in circular motions.
• Wipe away excess oil with a dry cloth.

Important Notes:

• This method is temporary and should not be relied on for deep scratches.
• Ensure no excess oil remains to avoid a greasy surface.

7. Car Scratch Removal Creams

Buffing with automotive products

Car scratch removal creams contain abrasive compounds that can help to buff out scratches on phone screens:

• Apply a small amount of cream onto a microfiber cloth.
• Gently rub over the scratches in circular motions until they diminish.
• Wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.

Important Notes:

• Use products designed for glass or plastic surfaces.
• Test on a small area before full application to avoid any damage.

8. Baby Powder Method

Reducing scratch visibility

This method involves using baby powder to fill in and minimize the appearance of scratches on the phone screen:

• Apply a small amount of baby powder to the scratched area.
• Rub in circular motions with a soft cloth.
• Wipe off excess powder with a clean cloth.

Important Notes:

• Baby powder provides temporary relief and may not remove scratches completely.
• Avoid leaving a powdery residue on the screen.

9. Petroleum Jelly Method

Filling minor scratches

Petroleum jelly can temporarily reduce the visibility of small scratches by filling them.

• Apply a small amount of jelly to the scratched area.
• Gently rub in circular motions with a soft cloth.
• Wipe off the excess jelly with a clean cloth.

Important Notes:

This method offers temporary results and should be followed with thorough cleaning.

10. Banana Peels

Natural solution to reduce scratch visibility
Banana peels, rich in natural oils and potassium, can help minimize minor scratches.

• Rub the inside of a banana peel over the scratched area in circular motions.
• Wipe off any residue with a clean cloth.

Important Notes:

• This method offers temporary cosmetic relief and should not be used with excessive force.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when attempting DIY

When attempting DIY scratch repairs, avoid the following mistakes:

• Using abrasive materials: Items like sandpaper or rough cloth can worsen the damage.
• Applying too much pressure: Being too forceful can cause further damage to the screen, especially on models with Ceramic Shield, like the iPhone 12 and 13.

When to Seek Professional Repair?

If the scratches are deep or your DIY methods aren’t successful, it’s time to consider professional repair services. Here’s what you can expect:

• Cost: At Phone Repair Centre, the cost professional scratch repair or screen replacement for iPhone models XS to 14 Pro Max, or Samsung can range from $150 to $400, depending on the extent of the damage.
• Timeline: Typically, repairs take about 1 to 2 hours, but screen replacements might take longer, depending on parts availability.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check your warranty or AppleCare coverage to see if screen damage is covered.

How to Protect Your Phone Screen from Scratches?

1. Apply a tempered glass screen protector from the outset:

Invest in a premium tempered glass screen protector to significantly enhance the durability and scratch resistance of your phone. This reinforced glass layer serves as a protective barrier, minimizing damage from sharp objects like keys or coins. It also helps absorb the force of minor impacts, further shielding the screen.

2. Utilize a shockproof protective phone case

Choose a shockproof phone case that offers 360-degree protection, covering both the back and edges of your device. In addition to cushioning against drops and impacts, it helps reduce wear and tear from surfaces, preventing scratches and scuffs during everyday use.

3. Use a dedicated phone pouch or bag for storage:

When your phone is not in use, store it in a dedicated phone pouch or case. This additional layer of protection keeps your phone away from abrasive materials like coins or keys that could cause scratches.

4. Regularly clean the screen with proper materials

Maintain your screen by regularly cleaning it with a soft microfiber cloth or a screen-safe cleaning solution. This removes dust, debris, and grit that could otherwise accumulate and create fine scratches over time.

FAQ

Can I remove deep scratches from my iPhone screen at home?

No, deep scratches generally require professional attention. Attempting to fix them at home might worsen the damage, especially on models with Ceramic Shield like the iPhone 12 and 13 Pro Max.

Does Apple’s warranty cover scratches?

Apple typically does not cover cosmetic damage like scratches under its warranty or AppleCare plans.

Can a screen protector prevent scratches on my iPhone?

Yes, applying a high-quality screen protector can prevent new scratches and, in some cases, hide existing minor scratches.

How does the screen material affect scratch resistance?

Starting with the iPhone 12, Apple introduced Ceramic Shield, which improves durability but doesn’t make the phone completely scratch-proof.

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