When it comes to uPVC windows and uPVC doors, the cleaning and maintenance they require is minimal, which makes them extremely sought after. That being said, there is still some “up-keep” you can do to prolong their life and keep them looking fresher for longer by following some of the tips we’ve given below.
What is the best way to clean uPVC windows and doors?
1) Remove dirt & debris
Get rid of any debris such as leaves and dirt that build up in the alcoves and gaps of the frame. Our windows have a mechanism built in to the design to help open them wide and slide across, specifically for cleaning. Hoover up any remaining small bits, preferably with a soft brush nozzle to minimise scratching or damage.
2) Warm Soapy Water
The best thing you can do is simply wipe the uPVC windows and doors with some warm soapy water (preferably weak washing up liquid). What you want to keep in mind is that uPVC is a rather sensitive material, so there are products that you should never use. You need to avoid using cream cleaners, solvents and products that are abrasive as you may end up damaging the surfaces and the glossy finish.
3) Polish & Shine
Using a clean, non-abrasive cloth such as a towel or clean rag, wipe any excess water until it has gone and you have a nice clean finish.
4) Cleaning the external and internal glass
As mentioned above, cleaning uPVC windows and door glass can be a little tricky, and you need to use non-abrasive materials.
Using paper kitchen roll will reduce streaks and help keep your glass shiny. Good old newspaper works wonders in the case! Spray the natural cleaning solution and wipe it down with the paper towel/newspaper. Continue doing this until all liquid has been wiped off and no longer see any smears.
Use the same method for the external glass at least once a month. You won’t need to get up a ladder to clean the top-level window panes as our windows are specially designed to open wide enough to clean them from the inside. Obviously do not lean too far out! If your windows are too wide to reach safely, you will still need to use a ladder or employ a window cleaner.
5) Home remedies for cleaning & whitening uPVC window and doors frames
Our 10 year guarantee covers against uPVC discolouration, however, if you fall outside of this period, there are still some tips you can adopt to prolong it’s clean and white finish.
In order to clean the frame and retain it’s white, glossy finish, we have found the following process works wonders:
- Using a ratio of 1 cup of white vinegar to 4 cups of hot water, mix this solution and add it into a sprayer to help evenly distribute the solution.
- Spray this solution and leave for 8-10 minutes. This will soften any hard dirt, making it easier to wipe clean.
- Using a smooth, non-abrasive cloth or rag, wipe it down until the surface is dry.
6) Alternative Solutions
Baby wipes aren’t just for babies! We have found that baby wipes are a great, non-abrasive way to help clean and whiten uPVC window and door frames.
You can also buy specialist uPVC cleaning products from most major retailers.
7) Cleaning your blinds/curtains
If you are installing blinds or curtains, keep at least 15 mm between the blinds and the window itself. This will offer a good airflow. Otherwise you can end up with mold and mildew build up.
Things to Consider
Using a sponge will help spread the cleaning solution on the uPVC windows and doors more evenly. Do not use a sponge with a scouring pad as this will most likely scratch the uPVC windows and doors, and you won’t have that glossy finish.
There are some things to avoid helping prevent damage and shortening the window’s or door’s life span:
- Cream cleaners
- Sponges with scouring pads
- Bleach
- Any liquids with removing solvents such as nail polish remover