What are the common causes of cracked iPad screens?
An iPad screen repair can happen faster than you think. These sleek devices are designed with strong, durable glass — but even with modern Gorilla Glass protection, they’re not invincible. Everyday accidents can lead to chips, scratches, or full cracks that affect how your iPad looks and functions.
At FixMyBrokenScreen.co.uk, we’ve seen it all — from simple hairline cracks to completely shattered displays. Below, we break down the most common causes of cracked iPad screens and share practical tips on how to avoid them.
1. Accidental Drops
The most common cause of iPad screen damage is simple — it slips out of your hand.
It can happen while multitasking, carrying too many things, or moving too quickly. Even a short fall from a table or sofa can cause visible cracks, especially if the device lands on a hard surface.
Prevention tip: Always use a shock-absorbing protective case and hold your device firmly when walking or standing. Avoid placing it on unstable surfaces.
2. Car Door and Bag Pressure
Many people accidentally damage their iPads by closing them in car doors or tight bags. These types of accidents can cause not only screen cracks but also frame bending, which may make future repairs more complicated.
Prevention tip: Never store your iPad between items in your car or backpack that could apply pressure to it. Always use a padded sleeve or section designed for tablets.
3. Sitting or Stepping on It
It might sound funny, but sitting on your iPad or accidentally stepping on it is more common than you’d think.
Some users forget that their iPad is on the couch, bed, or car seat. The screen and frame aren’t built to withstand body weight, leading to severe cracks or a completely broken LCD.
Prevention tip: Make it a habit to keep your iPad in a designated safe spot when not in use — never on seats or soft surfaces.
4. Children and Accidental Damage
Kids love iPads — for games, videos, and learning. Unfortunately, they don’t always handle them carefully. Many broken screens we repair are caused by accidental drops by children, or even throwing devices in frustration or excitement.
Prevention tip: Use child-proof cases with thick edges and screen protectors. Set up a specific, soft play area for your child’s iPad use.
5. Extreme Temperatures
Both heat and cold can make your iPad’s glass more vulnerable to cracking. Leaving your iPad in a hot car, direct sunlight, or near a heater can cause the glass to expand and weaken. Similarly, cold environments can make it brittle.
Prevention tip: Keep your iPad at room temperature and avoid exposing it to temperature extremes — whether that’s a car dashboard or near the fridge.
6. Improper Cases and Accessories
Sometimes, the very items meant to protect your iPad can cause damage.
Poor-quality cases or covers that don’t fit properly can apply pressure to the screen, leading to cracks or stress marks over time.
Prevention tip: Choose high-quality, certified cases designed specifically for your iPad model. Avoid hard or overly tight cases that press against the glass.
7. Selfie Stick Accidents
Taking photos with your iPad might sound convenient, but using an unbalanced selfie stick or tripod can easily end in disaster. A sudden slip or imbalance can send your iPad crashing to the ground.
Prevention tip: Use grip-secure accessories or soft stands designed for tablets to minimise drop risks.
8. Bathroom and Kitchen Mishaps
Believe it or not, many iPad screens break in bathrooms and kitchens. Using your iPad while multitasking, cooking, or scrolling near sinks increases the risk of slipping from wet hands or counters.
We’ve even seen devices fall from bathroom shelves or countertops onto tile floors — causing severe corner and screen damage.
Prevention tip: Avoid using your iPad in damp or risky areas. Keep browsing for dry zones like your desk or couch.
9. Poor Handling During Cleaning
Another overlooked cause of cracks is improper cleaning. Applying too much pressure with hard cloths, or using the wrong chemicals, can weaken the screen.
Prevention tip: Always clean your iPad screen with a soft microfibre cloth and gentle circular motions. Never spray liquids directly on the screen.
10. Everyday Wear and Tear
Over time, small scratches, impacts, and daily handling can add up. These micro-damages weaken the screen’s structure, making it more likely to crack during even a minor fall.
Prevention tip: Use a tempered glass screen protector to prevent scratches and absorb small impacts before they reach the actual screen.
Cracked iPad Screen? We’re Here to Help
At FixMyBrokenScreen.co.uk, we understand how stressful a broken iPad can be. That’s why we offer professional iPad screen repairs for all models — fast, affordable, and hassle-free.
Our technicians use high-quality replacement parts and back all repairs with a three-month warranty for peace of mind. Whether your iPad has a small crack or a completely shattered display, we’ll restore it to like-new condition.
We’ve earned over 1,000 five-star customer reviews, with users praising our exceptional service, fast turnaround, and reliable repairs.
👉 Read verified customer reviews of FixMyBrokenScreen.co.uk to see how we’ve helped thousands of customers across the UK.
Conclusion
Cracked screens are a common problem, but most are preventable with careful handling and proper protection. If you’ve already damaged your screen, don’t worry — it can be repaired quickly and professionally.
FixMyBrokenScreen.co.uk is your trusted partner for iPad screen repairs, offering expert care, premium parts, and exceptional customer service.
Contact us today for a quote or book your repair online — and let us bring your iPad back to life.
