Choosing Efficiency First

Plastic windows can be made out of a wide variety of different plastics, ranging from polyester to PVC. Plastic windows tend to be much sturdier than glass windows and are more easily shaped to fit into a uniquely shaped window frame. However, plastic windows can also hold onto dirt and grime much easier than glass windows do. Thankfully, cleaning plastic windows is a fairly simple process with the right know-how.

Why They Get So Dirty

Plastic windows tend to hold onto dirt and other debris much more than glass windows do because plastic tends to build up static electricity and dirt will will cling to its surface. This is the same principle that allows balloons to stick to walls or for socks to stick to other pieces of clothing when you take them out of the dryer.

Cleaning Plastic Windows

Thankfully, cleaning plastic windows is very easy to do and requires nothing more than white vinegar and warm water mixed together in a bucket. Mix a mixture of one part vinegar to four parts water together, and pour it into a plastic spray bottle. If you don't have vinegar or a spray bottle, they can be found at most grocery and general stores.

Spray the mixture of vinegar and warm water onto the windows while it is still warm, and allow it to sit for a few minutes to soak away at the dirt. Vinegary is naturally acidic and will break down organic materials but isn't as strong as commercial cleaners, which can damage the plastic and leave your windows discolored or degraded.

Rub the windows down in a circular motion with a clean rag. Doing so helps prevent smudges. Be sure to not apply too much pressure, as this can also cause smudges or marks to develop.

Once you've cleaned off the solution, check to ensure that all the dirt has been removed from the windows. If there is still any debris caked on, reapply the mixture as needed and scrub until the window is clean again.

Once the window is clear of all dirt, wash it down gently with cold water from a garden hose and let it air dry. This is to ensure that no vinegar is allowed to sit on the windows for an extended period of time, as even a mild acid can eat away at the plastic of your windows if exposed over a long enough time.

For more information about caring for windows, contact a company like Alumaroll Awning & Window Co Inc.