Cleaning and caring for plastic windows is a nuisance for many people. This should not only be grasped as a whole, but also pay attention to whether there are local problems in the window. This article on caring for windows applies to both white and tinted plastic windows, and we recommend that you follow the instructions for caring for your windows when you purchase or install them. In this article, you’ll learn some tips and tricks for cleaning windows quickly and easily, and why regular window maintenance is worthwhile.
Cleaning plastic windows
Which Cleaners Are Suitable For Plastic Windows?
Suitable Cleaning Agent | In Question, With Reservation |
Clear water | Caustic abrasive |
Dishwashing detergent | Alcohol-based cleaning products, such as gasoline or nail polish remover |
Neutral all-purpose cleaner | Ammonia cleaner |
Alcohol-Free Glass Cleaner | Sulfur-Containing Agent |
Special cleaner for plastic | Abrasive cleaning agents |
Soft sponge or cloth | Scouring or steel sponge |
Cleaning And Care Steps For Plastic Windows
1. Preparation On The Plastic Windows
Surface dirt such as dust, cobwebs or leaves – preferably a soft hand brush. This way you can clean those hard-to-reach places quickly without leaving scratches.
2. Clean Drainage Slots
Small passages in the windows are used to drain rainwater or moisture, preventing the windows from freezing in winter. It is recommended to clean with a fine brush or wooden swab to get the blockage out, then rinse off with clean water.
TIP: Use cover caps on the outside of these small slots to prevent insects or leaves from settling in.
3a. Clean Plastic Profile
You’ll need warm water, a little detergent, and a soft cloth. Wipe the entire frame, let the solution soak for a moment, then rinse with clean water. Finally, dry it with a clean cloth.
TIP: Make sure the cleaners don’t leave any residue, or they can corrode the windows and leave stains.
3b. Plastic Profiles Using High-quality Films
A good film’s antifouling coating requires little care and keeps windows from fading for a long time. You can easily remove coarse dirt with water, a small amount of regular detergent, and a cloth.
TIP: If the aluminum foil is damaged, you can contact the maintenance personnel to repair it quickly, or you can contact us for advice.
4. Clean The Window Glass
Cleaning window pane is no different than cleaning ordinary glass. You can use commercially available glass cleaners, microfiber cloths, or even chamois leather. Remember, do not use any alcohol or caustic cleaners that may corrode the seals or frame.
TIP: Avoid cleaning the glass in direct sunlight, or the water will dry too quickly and leave unsightly water spots.
5. Caring For Window Seals
The function of the window seal is critical. Remove dirt residue with a damp soft cloth, then wipe dry. Never use corrosive or harsh cleaners. These will corrode the material make it porous.
TIP: After cleaning, apply a silicone spray or equivalent lubricant to keep the seal elastic and make the window more weatherproof.
6. Maintain Window Fittings
In order for your window fittings to function properly, you should have them serviced at least once a year. Please check all fittings for any signs of wear. Lubricate moving parts and fasteners to keep them soft. Before servicing fittings, remove the coarse dirt with a damp cloth.
TIP: Use only cleaning and care products that won’t corrode the fittings.
Principle: Dos And Don’ts In Window Cleaning
Dos | Don’ts |
Remove coarse dirt with a soft brush | Remove dirt with a sharp blade or tool |
Use warm water and washing-up liquid | Use bleach, scouring agents, or caustic agents |
Use a soft cloth | Use a scouring pad or steel sponge |
Wipe dry after cleaning | Allow windows to air dry |
Lubricate seals and fittings regularly | Leave a protective film on the frame after assembly |
What’s The Best Way To Remove Which Dirt?
Residue After Installation
It is best to remove mortar residue, construction foam, plaster or tile adhesive directly from the window frame or pane, for example you can use a soft plastic scraper. Then soften the light residue with a mild detergent and warm water for a few minutes. In most cases, it can be removed with a soft brush or sponge. Repeat the process if necessary and rinse thoroughly with warm, clear water.
Stubborn Dirt
Those stains that have been left behind for a long time or that have cured in the material can be difficult to remove at first, but be patient and soak these stubborn stains in a detergent mixture a few times, then wipe off with a soft sponge. Never use harsh cleaners, bleaches or scouring milk. While these clean up grime quickly, they can damage the surface of the window, making it rough and dull and more prone to dirt residue.
Paint Runs, Splatters And Stains
Even though you wrap everything up well when you paint the house, there will inevitably be a small amount of paint dripping on the windows. However, many wall paints are water-soluble these days, so softening the remaining paint with warm water and then wiping it off with a soft cloth is sufficient. Usually you can also use a plastic card to carefully scrape off the paint residue. Note: Do not use sharp knives or ceramic hob scrapers, these will irreversibly damage the window surface.
Residue
Glued fly screens, fairy lights, or other decorations tend to leave unsightly adhesive residues on windows, and we usually only notice when dirt particles settles on these adhesive residues. Tiny stains can be removed with warm water and a little detergent, or you can add a little vinegar in it. For some stubborn residues, spray some special cleaner on the appropriate area and wipe off easily with a cloth after a few minutes. Then clean the entire surface to avoid oil film residue.
Yellowing And Discoloration
New plastic windows look naturally shiny and beautiful. However, windows will inevitably fade more or less over time. The cause may be substances settled in the material on the one hand, and nicotine or fat deposits on the other. If a regular fat-dissolving dishwashing liquid mixture doesn’t work, then you’ll have to use a special plastic cleaner. There are also people who might use an power cleaner for cleaning, but this can erode and damage the plastic or seals of the windows.
TIP: Be as specific as possible about your problem. If you’re not sure if those stains are particularly stubborn, you can consult a professional rather than using aggressive cleaners right away. This avoids irreparable damage to your precious windows.
Important Questions About Window Cleaning
How often should I clean vinyl windows?
On average 2-4 times per year as needed. How dirty the windows are depends on the surrounding air and the location of the house (e.g. near an industrial area or in the countryside). Personal cleaning habits are also important.
When should I clean plastic windows?
In principle, you can clean windows all year round. It’s best to clean your windows when the temperature is moderate, the water doesn’t freeze, and there’s no direct sunlight, as these conditions can leave unsightly water spots on the windows.
Why is caring for plastic windows important?
Changes in temperature, weather, and daily openings and closings all contribute to the load of window material. And regular window maintenance (about twice a year) protects the framing surface, keeps the seals soft and ensures that the window fittings run smoothly.
How should I clean plastic windows?
“From the inside out“. Start cleaning the windows on the side of the room and then go outside, like a 3-course meal. Clean the frame first, then the panes, and in the same way clean the outer (usually dirty) part of the window. Change the water regularly when cleaning to avoid creating more dirt.
How to clean plastic windows?
A bucket of warm water with a little washing-up liquid and a soft cloth is enough to remove most dirt. Use a commercially available glass cleaner (non-alcohol) and have a dry cloth ready.
Tools for cleaning windows
What do I need to consider after installing windows?
Remove the protective film from the plastic frame immediately after assembly. This is only a protection during transportation and installation, and it is difficult to remove after a long time.
Where is the dirt on my windows coming from?
Even if you don’t use the window very much, it will leave dirt over time. The dirt isn’t fingerprints, but the plastic frame itself attracts dust and other particles in the air.
The outside is mostly pollen dust, deposits from rain or traffic, and residue of insects and birds. These can usually be removed quickly with warm water and a little washing-up liquid.
It is mainly when people work in the kitchen frequently, which produces fat deposits; the soot from the fireplace in the living room can fall on the windows, the nicotine produced when smoking can also cause the windows to turn yellow; or the Christmas decorations left behind when decorating the children’s room glue residue.
The dirt caused by the above conditions can be removed in a few simple steps. The only thing that matters is that regular maintenance is required to prevent certain stains from causing irreparable damage to plastic windows.
