How to Clean Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows are a fantastic investment. These attractive windows not only look amazing but also offer practical benefits like energy efficiency, durability, and easy maintenance. But, of course, they still require some basic maintenance, including cleaning. Learning how to clean vinyl windows protects your investment, allows you to check over your windows, and helps to keep your home cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable.

Discovering What Not to Do

When you’re learning how to care for something, discovering what you shouldn’t do is often just as important. After all, it can prevent you from making missteps that might cause harm. As PDX Pro Wash points out, vinyl is a durable material, but it can be damaged by harsh cleaners or rough handling. To avoid damaging your vinyl, don’t use abrasive tools like steel wool, wire brushes, or sharp blades. In addition, avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, ammonia, citrus cleansers, and organic solvents. Finally, it’s wise to limit contact with extreme temperatures. In other words, don’t use boiling water, ice water, or a heat gun to clean or repair your vinyl windows.

Cleaning the Window Glass

If you’re wondering how to clean vinyl windows, you’ll first need to clean the window glass for a clear view. As your window likely employs standard glass, you can go ahead and use the same methods and materials you would for any window in your home. Feel free to opt for a store-bought cleaner or make your own. (According to the experts, a solution that’s 70 percent water and 30 percent vinegar works well.) Spray the glass. Then, wipe it with a squeegee or microfiber cloth. Repeat as necessary.

Maintaining the Vinyl Window Frame

Regularly removing dust and grime from your vinyl window frames keeps your house cleaner and healthier. It also reduces the chances that anything stuck to your window frames could stain or discolor them. That means it’s essential if you’re wondering how to clean vinyl windows. How do you do it?

Removing loose dust, debris, and cobwebs from the vinyl frames with a duster or dry cloth is a great first step. If you prefer, you can use a vacuum.

To help vinyl windows look their best, you’ll want to clean the frames with a nonabrasive cleanser. A solution of vinegar and water will do the trick. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen any grime. Then, wipe gently with a clean, damp microfiber cloth. Finally, dry the frame with another microfiber cloth. If you’re not a fan of using a vinegar solution, you can mix a small amount of baby shampoo with plenty of warm water. This gentle cleanser is another great way to restore your vinyl’s appeal. If you choose this option, be sure to rinse away any soap residue before drying the frame.

Have you noticed stains or discolorations on your vinyl window frames? If the vinegar solution or baby shampoo mixture isn’t strong enough to wash away a stubborn spot, you may need to turn to a store-bought cleaner. A few products are known to be tough on stains but nonabrasive enough to use on vinyl. These include Fantastik and Bar Keeper’s Friend. Companies change formulas all the time, so proceed with caution. With any product, read the directions, follow them carefully, and try it in a discreet area first.

Vetting Your Vinyl Windows

While you’re getting up close and personal with your windows to get them clean, you have the perfect opportunity to vet their condition. As you wash your windows, ask yourself questions like the following:

• Are the windows hard to operate?
• Are there visible signs of damage?
• Do you see condensation between the panes?
• Have you noticed higher energy bills?
• Does it seem like you hear everything from outside?

If you’re noticing issues, it may be time to replace your windows.

When you want decades of dependability, amazing aesthetics, and affordable comfort, vinyl windows are hard to beat, and Liberty Home Solutions is ready to help. As the exclusive Soft-Lite window dealer in the Ozarks, we’re delighted to offer a huge variety of vinyl windows. Discover the possibilities with all kinds of windows in 17 exterior colors, 5 interior woodgrain finishes, and custom colors. What about energy efficiency? Many of our windows carry the Energy Star label. To learn more, reach out to Liberty Home Solutions today.