There is nothing worse in an apartment than white surfaces that have yellowed over time. Be it cupboards, doors or windows – what was initially white looks unsightly after a few years if you don't care for it properly. Yellowing is primarily caused by smoke and kitchen fumes, which is why kitchen windows are more often affected. If you notice discoloration, it is important to act as quickly as possible to avoid permanent damage. In the article we explain how to clean yellowed window frames and how to clean plastic windows using home remediesget white again.
How often should you clean window frames?
An important note in advance: To avoid having to deal with yellowed window frames in the future, you should clean your windows regularly. WhileWindow panes cleaned every few monthsthings look different with the frames. To avoid discoloration caused by dirt, steam and grime, you should clean the plastic window frames once a month, especially in rooms such as the kitchen where they are exposed to external influences on a daily basis. No special cleaning products are required. Simply dip a sponge in a mixture of water and a little dishwashing liquid and use it to clean the frame. Then wipe it dry with a soft cloth and that's it. This small measure, which you can do at the beginning or end of each month, will prevent yellowing.
This is what you should pay attention to when cleaning PVC window frames
A common mistake people make when cleaning windows is forgetting to wipe off the accumulated dust first. However, the remaining dust particles can cause scratches and should definitely be removed with a soft cloth or feather duster before cleaning.
Get plastic windows white again with home remedies: this is how it works
Some older PVC windows may lose their shine because a lot of dirt and grime has accumulated on their surface. If this scenario sounds familiar, you don't necessarily need to buy “special” cleaning products to restore the original finish. There are also useful home remedies that make cleaning easier and even work better than some store-bought cleaners.
baking powderor baking soda is a real miracle cure in the household and can also be used to clean window frames. All you have to do is mix the home remedy with a little water and possibly a splash of vinegar and apply the resulting paste to the yellowed frame. After a few minutes of exposure, wipe off the paste and rinse the frame with lukewarm water.
With a mixture ofcitric acidand warm water can be used to clean and brighten the yellowed window frames. To do this, simply dip a cloth into the homemade cleaning agent and wipe the frames with it.
Have you ever had one?Dirt erasercleaned? This magic sponge can work wonders on superficial yellowing and remove it quickly. Moisten the dirt eraser, wipe the PVC window frames and you're done!
These methods also work wonderfully on yellowed plastic window sills!
Stay away from these cleaning products!
Harsh cleaners are unsuitable for use on PVC windows. Plastic is sensitive and reacts poorly to some common cleaning products and methods.
Useno scouring milkor othersScheuermittel, as these can scratch the top layer of the PVC and permanently remove the “shiny” finish. This actually promotes new yellowing, which would be even more difficult to remove.
Althoughchlorine-containing bleachesWhile they will certainly help get a yellowed window frame white again, they are not a good way to clean PVC windows. The chemical reacts with the surface and can cause damage. Window seals can also be damaged by chlorine bleach. The same applies to nail polish remover or acetone - using these products on plastic frames is completely discouraged.
To clean the plastic windows from the outside, you should use theAvoid high-pressure cleaners. Although he can clean the facade well, there is a risk of windows being damagedSeals damagedbecome.
Also important:Do not use scouring pads, wire wool or sponges with an abrasive surface on plastic windows, which can scratch the surface of the material.
Clean PVC window frames from the inside
The inner part of the window frame also needs to be cleaned regularly.
Start by cleaning the hinges and the inside of the frames. Open the window as far as possible until resistance is reached (do not push it past this point). Use a vacuum attachment with a soft brush to suck out any buildup of dust from the hinges, clean the frame, and get into all the corners.
Use a soft cloth and warm water with a mild soap solution to clean the inside of the PVC window frames. Lubricate the hinges with a few drops of a multi-purpose oil.
How to remove mold from plastic window frames
To remove mold from PVC window frames, you should use a solution of hot water and soap and a soft cloth. If this doesn't work, you can also try vinegar.
- Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 4 cups of hot water.
- Spray the vinegar onto the PVC using a spray bottle.
- Leave on for 10 minutes.
- Wipe with a clean, dry cloth.
You can find further useful tips for mold on the windowsin this post.
