All the house windows will need to be cleaned a couple of times a year. Glass windows and vinyl windows are different. Most homeowners used glass cleaner material to clean vinyl windows. It is the wrong way to use harsh chemicals like bleach.
You may be using vinyl windows which need to be cleaned. It is important to use the right cleaners and the right process to clean vinyl windows. If you take proper care of your vinyl windows, Its will be long-lasting.
So you should avoid glass cleaner, ammonia, bleach, or any other harsh chemical-based cleaners when you clean your vinyl windows. These types of cleaners will break down the integrity of your windows. Glass cleaner aren’t safe for vinyl windows.
However, We shared step by step guide to cleaning your vinyl windows so that you can get better results.
Let’s get started.
How To Clean Vinyl Windows?
You can use a homemade cleaner like mild detergent, vinegar, water, a sponge, and a soft bristle brush to clean your vinyl windows. You can also use a commercial cleaner to remove any stain on your vinyl windows. Primary you can use a soft cloth, vinegar, and water which are not affected the vinyl windows.
If you use homemade cleaner, you have to be careful to use these materials. For example, Don’t use harsh cleansers, Liquid grease removers, high-pressure washers, and paint thinners.
The step-by-step process:
Step 1. Inspection:
First, you should inspect your window and frame. Find out any stains on your window or not. Then check the glass, if any cracks or fogging or not. That helps you to identify any spot problems on your windows.
Step 2. Remove the Sash and Screens:
Remove the sash and screens to make your job easier. Then put on it on a flat surface. During the job, you have to be careful around the windows.
Step. 3: Clean Frame:
Clean the frame with a homemade cleaner like soap and water mix. First, wash your frame with clean water then use soap or soap mix water. Use a soft brush to remove any stains.
After washing, wipe with a dry cloth so that your windows dry quickly. For more stubborn stains, you can use commercial cleaning products.
Step.4: Clean the glass:
Clean your vinyl window glass with vinegar and water. Spray the cleaning solution on your vinyl window glass. If you have any stains on the glass, use a soft brush or soft cloth.
You can also use low bleach to remove stains from your vinyl windows. Be careful, that it doesn’t make scratches when you use brash to remove stains.
Step 5. Clean the Tracks:
Last, Clean the tracks with a vacuum or plastic putty knife. To clan tracks, use a mild detergent. After washing, use a clean cloth so that it dries quickly.
Vinyl Window Cleaning Materials:
There are several materials are used to clean vinyl windows. In this case, you have to understand mixing combinations. There are several commercial vinyl widows clear but we shared some homemade window cleaners below.
- Dish Soap: You can use dish soap to clean your vinyl windows. In this case, you have to mix a small amount of dish soap with water. Spray into the window glass and use a soft brush. Don’t presser in the glass during the brushing, it could have a negative effect on the surface of the glass. Brushing until all dirt and debris have been removed.
- Murphy’s Oil Soap: Murphy’s oil soap is also an effective way to clean vinyl windows. First, mix murphy’s oil soap with water and use the mix like dish soap. Use a soft brush or cloth so that doesn’t make scratches.
- Bleach: We don’t recommend using bleach to clean the vinyl windows. But if have any tough stains on your windows, you can use bleach with water. The bleach and Water ratio have to be 4:1. For tough stains, you can also use a detergent solution. After using the detergent or bleach, wash your windows with clean water.
- Windex: You can use Windex or Lysol to clean vinyl windows. A little amount of Windex spray on the windows and clean them with a soft cloth. Then use clean water and wipe with a dry cloth.
- Vinegar: Vinegar is used to clean all kinds of windows, It is also suitable to clean vinyl windows. First, mix water and vinegar at a ratio of 7:3. Then spray into the vinyl windows and use a soft brush to clean. After bursting, wash with clean water and wipe with a clean dry cloth.
However, If you don’t want to use the homemade cleaner, you can use Sprayway Glass Cleaner. It might be one of the best choices for cleaning your vinyl window glass.
Clean Different parts of vinyl windows:
We need to clean everything of windows like frames, Tracks, blinds, shades, and screens. Here we shared everything so that you can clean your vinyl windows properly.
How to Clean Vinyl Window tracks
A quick and easy way you can clean vinyl window tracks is by using baking soda with a bit of vinegar. Spray baking soda in the area that needs to clean. Then place a few drops of vinegar in the same areas. It will make bubbles and use a brush. Then wash with clean water and wipe with a cloth. In the same way, you can clean vinyl window frames, blinds, shades, and screens.
Can I use vinegar to clean vinyl windows?
Yes, you can use vinegar to clean vinyl windows. Vinegar is a natural, non-toxic cleaning solution that can effectively remove dirt, grime, and hard water stains from windows. Here’s how you can use vinegar to clean your vinyl windows:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution on the window frames, sills, and glass panes.
- Use a soft cloth or a sponge to wipe the windows clean, starting from the top and working your way down.
- For stubborn stains or hard water buildup, let the vinegar solution sit on the window for a few minutes before wiping it away.
- Rinse the windows with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
- Dry the windows with a clean, dry cloth or a squeegee.
While vinegar is a safe and effective cleaning solution for most vinyl windows, it’s important to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it doesn’t damage or discolour the vinyl. Additionally, if you have tinted vinyl windows, you should avoid using vinegar or any other acidic cleaners, as they can damage the tinting.
How to make vinyl window cleaner at home?
You can make your own vinyl window cleaner at home with just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a recipe for a DIY vinyl window cleaner that you can try:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, combine the water, white vinegar, and dish soap.
- Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients.
- Spray the solution onto the window frames, sills, and glass panes.
- Use a soft cloth or a sponge to wipe the windows clean, starting from the top and working your way down.
- For stubborn stains or hard water buildup, let the solution sit on the window for a few minutes before wiping it away.
- Rinse the windows with clean water to remove any remaining solution.
- Dry the windows with a clean, dry cloth or a squeegee.
This DIY vinyl window cleaner is effective, easy to make, and cost-efficient. You can adjust the amount of vinegar and dish soap to your liking, depending on how dirty your windows are. Additionally, you can add a few drops of essential oils to the solution to give it a pleasant scent.
How To Clean Vinyl Windows In The Sunroom?
Cleaning vinyl windows in a sunroom is similar to cleaning other vinyl windows. Here are some steps you can follow to clean vinyl windows in a sunroom:
- Remove any dust, dirt or debris from the window frames and sills with a dry cloth or a soft brush.
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap and water in a bucket. Use only a small amount of soap, as too much can leave a residue on the windows.
- Dip a soft cloth or a sponge into the solution, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the window frames, sills, and glass panes. If your sunroom windows are high or hard to reach, you can use a long-handled squeegee or a specialized cleaning tool with a telescoping handle.
- For stubborn grime, use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to gently scrub the affected areas.
- Rinse the windows with clean water, either using a bucket of fresh water or a garden hose, making sure to remove all soap residue.
- Dry the windows with a clean, dry cloth or a squeegee. If your sunroom windows are large, you may want to use a microfiber mop or a long-handled squeegee to speed up the drying process.
- If there are any remaining streaks or smudges on the glass, you can clean them using a window cleaner specifically designed for vinyl windows, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean the vinyl windows in your sunroom and keep them looking their best for years to come. If your sunroom is prone to dust and dirt buildup, you may want to clean the windows more frequently to maintain their appearance.
How To Clean Soft Vinyl Windows?
Soft vinyl windows require gentle cleaning to prevent damage or discolouration. Here are some steps you can follow to clean soft vinyl windows:
- Remove any loose dirt or dust from the window frames and sills with a dry cloth or a soft brush.
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap and water in a bucket. Use only a small amount of soap, as too much can leave a residue on the windows.
- Dip a soft cloth or a sponge into the solution, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the window frames, sills, and glass panes. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or brushes, as they can scratch or damage the soft vinyl.
- For stubborn grime, use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to gently scrub the affected areas. Again, make sure to use a gentle touch and avoid pressing too hard.
- Rinse the windows with clean water, either using a bucket of fresh water or a garden hose, making sure to remove all soap residue.
- Dry the windows with a clean, dry cloth or a squeegee. If your soft vinyl windows are large, you may want to use a microfiber mop or a long-handled squeegee to speed up the drying process.
- If there are any remaining streaks or smudges on the glass, you can clean them using a window cleaner specifically designed for soft vinyl windows, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively clean your soft vinyl windows without causing damage or discolouration. It’s important to clean soft vinyl windows regularly to prevent dirt buildup and maintain their appearance.
How to Clean vinyl window frame?
Cleaning vinyl window frames is an important part of maintaining the appearance and longevity of your windows. Here are some steps you can follow to clean vinyl window frames:
- Remove any loose dirt, dust or debris from the window frames with a dry cloth or a soft brush.
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap and water in a bucket. Use only a small amount of soap, as too much can leave a residue on the frames.
- Dip a soft cloth or a sponge into the solution, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the window frames, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to scrub gently.
- For stubborn stains or grime, you can use a cleaning solution specifically designed for vinyl window frames, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rinse the frames with clean water, either using a bucket of fresh water or a garden hose, making sure to remove all soap residue.
- Dry the frames with a clean, dry cloth or a towel. Make sure to dry the frames thoroughly to prevent water spots or streaks.
- If your vinyl window frames are white, you can use a vinyl-safe bleach solution to remove any mould or mildew stains. Mix one part bleach to ten parts water, apply the solution to the affected areas, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water.
Best Vinyl Window Cleaner
There are many effective vinyl window cleaners available on the market. Here are some of the best vinyl window cleaners based on customer reviews and ratings:
- Windex Vinegar Multi-Surface Cleaner: This all-purpose cleaner is safe for use on vinyl windows and other surfaces. It contains vinegar, which helps to cut through grease and grime and leaves a streak-free shine.
- Sprayway Glass Cleaner: This cleaner is specifically designed for use on glass surfaces, including vinyl windows. It is ammonia-free and leaves no residue or streaks.
- Weiman Glass Cleaner and Polish: This cleaner and polish is safe for use on vinyl windows, as well as other glass surfaces. It is ammonia-free and streak-free and leaves a shiny, polished finish.
- Invisible Glass Cleaner: This cleaner is specifically designed for use on glass surfaces, including vinyl windows. It is ammonia-free and streak-free and leaves no residue or film.
- Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner: This all-purpose cleaner is safe for use on vinyl windows, as well as other surfaces. It is non-toxic and biodegradable, and effectively removes dirt, grime, and other stains.
When choosing a vinyl window cleaner, it’s important to consider the ingredients and any potential harm they may cause to the vinyl or other surfaces. Always read the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.