How to clean uPVC windows and doors

uPVC became the most popular choice for windows when it was introduced in the eighties mainly because it was a welcome maintenance-free option to wooden frames. Whereas timber needs a lot of care, uPVC can tolerate years without attention.

However, uPVC does need a regular wash to keep it looking fresh and bright as dust and dirt builds up especially on white frames. For properties in towns, cities or near the coast we recommend a good clean every three months and for rural areas that don't experience so much grime and weathering twice a year should be enough.

Below, we've outlined the best ways to clean your uPVC windows and doors. We've also answered the most common question we get asked about cleaning uPVC.

• How to clean inside uPVC window frames
• How to clean uPVC window frames
• How to clean uPVC window sills
• How to clean uPVC doors
• How to clean mould off uPVC window frames
• How can I get my uPVC white again?
• Can you use bleach on uPVC windows?
• Can you clean uPVC with white spirit?
• What to use to clean uPVC windows

How to clean inside uPVC window frames

Start by cleaning the hinges and the inside of the frames.

Open the window as far as possible to the point of resistance (don't push past this point).

Use a vacuum attachment to suck any build-up of dust out of the hinges.

Use a vacuum attachment with a soft brush to run around the frame and to get in all the corners of the frame.

Use a soft cloth and warm water with a mild soap solution to clean inside the uPVC window frames.

Keep the hinges lubricated with a few drops of a multi-purpose oil.

How to clean uPVC window frames

To avoid any discolouration or damage caused through over-vigorous cleaning trying to shift stubborn stains a regular wash with warm soapy water will keep your white uPVC window frames in the best condition.

Use a soft brush or soft cloth to brush off any dust and loose dirt.

If you have a hose, rinse the windows with clean water to remove dirt.

Make a warm water soapy solution with a squirt of washing-up liquid or a dedicated liquid window cleaner in a bottle (not the spray type).

Use a soft cloth and the soap solution to wash down the frames and windowpane.

DO NOT use a scouring pad, wire wool or sponge with a scouring surface.

If you have a hose, rinse again with clean water.

The secret to getting crystal clear windows is to use a quality squeegee with a soft blade (like window cleaners do). Start at one side and either sweep from side-to-side to the bottom or start at one side and swipe from top to bottom and then use your fingers or a cloth to wipe excess water off the squeegee before the next swipe.

To get a real sparkle finish you can use a specific window cleaning spray with a soft cloth and then rub down with kitchen roll or old newspaper. But DON'T spray this on the frames.

You can also use vinegar – it's a magic ingredient for cleaning in the home.

Mix ½ cups of vinegar with 2 cups of water and a few drops of washing-up liquid.

Use a soft cloth to apply to the windows and then use old newspaper to rub in a circular motion to dry to a sparkly finish.

How to clean uPVC window sills

Make a warm water soapy solution with a squirt of washing-up liquid or a dedicated liquid window cleaner in a bottle (not the spray type).

Use a cloth or non-scratchy sponge to wash down the sills.

You might need to soak the sill and leave it for five minutes before rubbing again to shift stubborn dirt.

NEVER use a scouring pad or cream cleaner as this will scratch the surface and permanently damage it.

How to clean uPVC doors

To clean your uPVC doors use the same process as cleaning your uPVC windows.

• Vacuum inside the frame and hinges
• Brush off dirt
• Use a warm soapy solution
• Rinse with clean water

How to clean mould off uPVC window frames

To clean mould and black mould off uPVC window frames, you should use a hot water and soap solution and a soft cloth.

If this doesn't work, you can also try vinegar.

• Mix 1 cup vinegar to 4 cups hot water
• Use a spritzer bottle to spray on the uPVC
• Leave this for 10 minutes
• Use a clean dry cloth to wipe down

DON'T ever be tempted to use bleach or white spirits as uPVC as it can turn white uPVC brown.

How can I get my uPVC white again?

Older white uPVC frames and cheap uPVC has been known to yellow with age. Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do to restore the whiteness if it's a quality issue.

As mentioned above, if the frame has been damaged by an abrasive product, a scouring pad or years of using a cream cleaner then uPVC will be full of fine scratches that make the frame look dull and discoloured. If this has happened there isn't anything you can do that will make the frames shiny white again.

If the frames are discoloured through years of grime and dirt, then you can try another magic trick with vinegar.

• Mix 1 cup vinegar to 4 cups hot water
• Use a spritzer bottle to spray on the uPVC
• Leave this for 10 minutes
• Use a clean dry cloth to wipe down

DON'T ever use bleach or white spirits as this will damage the surface of the uPVC.

DON'T ever be tempted to use a scouring pad, wire wool or anything rough with too much pressure as this can permanently scratch and damage the surface of the uPVC.

Remember that many detergents use hidden colouring in them and as uPVC is porous it can react and stain your window frames permanently. And no, you can't bleach them white again…

Can you use bleach on uPVC windows?

One of the main problems with cheap or older uPVC is it can develop a yellow tinge and it would be natural to think that a squirt of bleach will bring back the super white frames – DON'T!

Don't use bleach to clean uPVC window frames or sills. It will damage the surface of the uPVC and can permanently discolour it. If you leave bleach on the uPVC frame it can turn it brown. Any type of chemical can have a reaction with the chemicals in the uPVC and strip the surface that will leave it looking matt and dull or even tinted – and, you can't ever reverse this damage.

Can you clean uPVC with white spirit?

Don't use white spirits, methylated spirits or WD40 to clean uPVC frames or doors. It will permanently damage the surface of the uPVC.

What to use to clean uPVC windows

A warm water and soap solution with some elbow grease and rubbing with a non-scouring cloth is the best way to clean uPVC window frames. If this doesn't shift the build-up of dirt there are a variety of dedicated uPVC cleaner products on the market.

Best product to clean uPVC window frames

If you want a cleaner that can cut through stubborn dirt on uPVC you can try one of the many dedicated uPVC cleaners on the market. We don't endorse or recommend any specific products and recommend you always check the product is compatible with uPVC and test on a small area first.

Are your windows well past looking their best?

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