Polyvinyl Chloride PVC has come a long way since German chemist Eugen Baumann accidentally synthesized it in 1872 after he left a flask of vinyl chloride in sunlight. We find it in many aspects of construction. Today, we turn our attention to how to clean vinyl windows and doors so they look sparkling clean again.

How to Clean Vinyl: in Its Various Forms

There are two basic forms of vinyl PVC. The rigid type features as door and window frames in our homes, and as water pipes. We also purchase non-food items in vinyl packaging and pay for them with vinyl bank cards.

The flexible version appears as electric cable insulation, floor coverings, imitation leather, inflatable products, and old fashioned vinyl records some of us collect. When static electricity builds up on vinyl the material attracts dirt.

Hence we need to know how to clean vinyl products in a wide variety of applications. We focus on PVC windows and doors in this article. However, the same general principles to any product provided the methods we describe won’t harm them.

It’s Easy to Vinyl Windows and Doors

However, do be careful, and think twice about standing on a ladder unless you have a strong adult holding it. In this article, we imagine cleaning the front door standing on your own two feet.

First, vacuum the door using a soft brush attachment to get any dirt out of reveals

Next, wash the door and frame down with a mixture of mild soap and warm water

Now rinse toughly and wipe the surface with a damp cloth (to avoid static building up)

Finally make sure the ‘weep holes’ for drainage are clear by testing them with a tooth pick

NEVER use an abrasive or caustic cleaner because this could permanently spoil the smooth surface of the door or frame.

Now You Know How to Clean Vinyl How About the Locks

Locks and hinges on doors and windows can get sticky owing to dirt attaching to the lubrication. Oil the moving parts lightly with thin oil and wipe them clean with kitchen towel afterwards.

Put a very small amount of oil on the door key and move it in and our several times to loosen the moving parts. Wipe the key thoroughly and avoid putting it in your pocket. Wipe the key next time you use it just in case it has a film of oil.

If you can’t get the vinyl surfaces clean to your satisfaction then something has probably damaged the smooth surface in the past. SilverLine Exterior Solutions at 604-942-0488 is a local vinyl window manufacturer and replacement specialist. Reach out to us for a free assessment on replacement options.