Your guide to cleaning uPVC doors and windows
uPVC doors and windows have a reputation for being low maintenance and easy to clean. However, white uPVC can cause an absolute pain once dirt has built up over time. Not only do you get stubborn stains from the elements, but overcleaning can actually discolour them, too.
Here at SPh2ONGE we have created a complete cleaning guide, so you will no longer have to get stressed over cleaning your uPVC windows and doors!
- Get rid of any loose muck
Open up the window or door as wide as it will go. Grab your hoover or a dustpan and brush and get to work. Make sure to use the soft brush or the alcove nozzle on your hoover to get into every nook and cranny.
- Give it a wipe down
Make a large bucket of warm soapy water. There’s no need for anything fancy – washing-up liquid works brilliantly. Use a sponge or a soft cloth to wash the uPVC with all the soap and suds. The SPh2ONGE is perfect at getting a streak-free shine! You can get our tips on that no-streak finish here.
- Dry it off
So that the soap doesn’t dry and leave any residue, dry off your window or door with another soft cloth. Any old rag will do!
- Make the window panes crystal clear
The obvious solution, of course, is to use your trusty glass cleaner and a soft cloth. A neat trick if you’re all out, however, requires only vinegar, water, soap and newspaper – yes, newspaper!
Mix half a cup of soap, a quarter cup of vinegar and two cups of water. Dip the newspaper in the mixture and then use the newspaper to wipe the windows in a circular motion. This is a sure fire way to get rid of any immovable dirty spots.
How to deal with tough stains
Now that the uPVC is lovely and clean, you might be able to notice some staining. Older uPVC can lose its shine and collect grime in its pores.
To prevent this happening again, try to only use soft cloths and gentle washing agents. Scouring pads, bleach or cream cleaners might seem like the obvious choice to remove stains, but they can scratch or damage the surface, doing more harm than good.
Instead of an abrasive cleaner, look no further than your kitchen cupboards! Mix one part vinegar to four parts hot water and pour into a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the problem areas and leave it to do its magic for 10 minutes. Then, just wipe it off and voila!
What to avoid
When cleaning your uPVC, it is crucial to stay away from:
- Bleach
- Cream cleaners
- White spirits or nail varnish remover
- Wire wool
- Scouring pads
- It is also a good idea to not use too much elbow grease! Let the cleaners do the work for you.
Follow this guide for perfectly clean uPVC windows. Got any more tips? Share them below! – The SPh2ONGE team.