Does your home have vinyl windows? If you have just moved into a new home with vinyl windows or if you recently updated your windows to vinyl, you may not know the best way to clean them.
Cleaning your vinyl windows on occasion is important and can prolong their lifespan. It’s not difficult, but there are some specific instructions you should be aware of, including how to access them and what cleaning products are safe and effective. Here’s a tutorial on how to clean vinyl windows.
How to Access Your Vinyl Windows for Cleaning
You don’t need to climb a ladder to access the outside of your windows. Modern vinyl windows tilt inward for easy cleaning of the outside. Here are step by step instructions for tilting your window sashes:
- Unlock your windows.
- Find the latches on the top of the lower window frame and slide them inward.
- Gently tip the window toward you and hold it in place.
- Prop it up with one hand while you clean it with the other. You can also prop it on a chair or stool or ask someone else to help you.
If you have double hung windows, both sashes will release and tilt. If you have single hung windows, you can reach through the opening of the bottom window to clean the outside of the top window.
Suggested Cleaning Products for Vinyl Windows
You don’t need any special window cleaning products for vinyl windows. Most of the suggested cleaners you will have around the house, such as:
- Dish Soap. Mix dish soap and water and use it to wipe your windows with a soft cloth. This will typically remove most outer stains.
- Murphy’s Oil Soap. Just a teaspoon of Murphy’s will mix with a gallon of water for an ideal ratio. Apply with a soft cloth and rub gently to remove dirt.
- Diluted Bleach. Bleach should only be used after diluting. Mix it with water at a 4:1 ratio, meaning 4 parts water and just one part bleach. Be careful cleaning with bleach as it will remove the color from clothing, carpet, and curtains.
- Windex. Windex is designed specifically for windows, making it an ideal cleaner for both the interior and exterior sides of your windows. Since the outside will likely be dirtier, you may need to apply a coat, wipe with a clean cloth, and repeat.
- Lysol. Similar to Windex but intended for multiple purposes, Lysol can also be used on windows. Just spray and wipe with a soft cloth.
- Vinegar. The all-natural cleaner, vinegar works well on windows without using any harsh chemicals. 30% vinegar to 70% water is usually a good mix. Vinegar is especially effective at removing mold and mildew.
Cleaning Products to Avoid Using on Vinyl Windows
Some cleaning products are too harsh for vinyl windows and may cause damage or early deterioration. Avoid using:
- Pure bleach. Undiluted bleach is too harsh and may harm the vinyl portion of your windows. It may also cause discoloration.
- Liquid grease remover. Also too harsh, liquid grease remover may discolor or deteriorate the vinyl.
- Nail polish remover. This has also been known to discolor the vinyl.
- Furniture cleaner. Furniture cleaner tends to include oil, which will simply cloud up your windows.
- Ajax or abrasive cleaners. Any cleaner that is abrasive and comes in a powder form or crystal form could scratch the class and the vinyl.
Zen Windows are Easy to Clean
If you’re considering upgrading your windows, Zen Windows are designed to be easy to clean from the inside. Now that you know how to clean vinyl windows, you are already prepared for new window installation.
Call (763) 286-6871 today for an estimate or get a free 5 minute online quote. We look forward to helping you improve your home with new, easy to clean vinyl windows.
