Cleaning and Care Tips for Our Vinyl Replacement Windows

Majestic slider windows in a blue living room

When it comes to a long-lasting window choice for a home, few materials can top vinyl. Weather-resistant vinyl is highly durable, and an excellent choice for keeping out extreme temperatures, drafts, snow, and rain. Vinyl does not rot, peel, or rust, so vinyl windows will remain attractive and in good working order for years or decades to come.

Vinyl windows will even remain in a condition that looks new, provided they are cleaned properly and regularly. The good news is that they are easy to clean, as we will outline in this blog.

How to Clean Vinyl Windows

Since windows have two sides, there are two cleaning procedures to follow.

Cleaning the outside of vinyl windows. Heavy rainfall will often keep the exterior of vinyl windows clean, but in cases where they need a bit of extra help, a garden hose and gentle soap will do the trick with a bit of manual wiping. (It’s important to note that you should use gentle pressure with the hose, as a high-pressure hose or power-washer could force water in around the edges of the window.) To maximize cleaning efficiency, begin at the top of the window and work your way downward.

Consider using a mild dish detergent in the smallest ratio possible with water so you can be sure no residue remains on the windows after cleaning. Wipe the frames with a soft cloth and use a soft-bristled brush to get grit and dirt out of any hard-to-reach places.

Cleaning the inside of vinyl windows. Interior windows will need to be cleaned more often since they don’t get the benefit of rainfall. You can use a mix of water and gentle soap, or water and vinegar at a ratio of 10 to 20 percent vinegar to water. Do not use harsh cleaning products such as those with bleach or strong solvents on vinyl windows to avoid damaging the vinyl. Commercial window cleaners such as Windex can be used to clean interior windows, but these solutions are more prone to leaving streaks. In addition, be sure to use a soft cloth rather than an abrasive pad, as the latter can leave significant scratches on the vinyl which will gather dirt.

Use a new, soft cloth or a squeegee to dry the interior of the windows after you have cleaned them. (Take care if using a rubber squeegee, however, as they can leave streaks that can be hard to remove if they are damaged or used improperly.)

For very hard-to-remove substances such as adhesive, paint, or crayon, spot-clean the areas with denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, which can remove stubborn materials that won’t respond to soap and water. If alcohol does not work, try a commercial spot-removing substance such as Goof Off. After spot cleaning, be sure to use your mild cleansing solution to remove any traces of the more intensive cleaning material.

Since 1949, Aladdin, Inc. has been Connecticut’s leader in vinyl replacement windows, retractable patio covers, exterior railing, canopies and awnings, entry and patio doors, storm doors and windows, vinyl siding, gutters, gutter guards and commercial awnings. We provide services for the entire state of Connecticut and take great pride in our work and in the knowledge that we’ve helped transform countless houses into the homes of their owners’ dreams. Call us at 203-776-9996 or visit our website. 

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