How to Clean Vinyl Windows

Co-authored by Bridgett Price and Amber Crain

Last Updated: March 7, 2023

Vinyl is a strong material that can resist the damage and deterioration caused by the sun's ultra-violet rays. With proper care and maintenance, vinyl windows can remain in great shape for years. Because the glass scratches so easily, caution must be shown when cleaning the surface. Only mild non-detergent soaps and microfiber cloths should be used. Apply a UV protectant product after every cleaning to extend the life of your windows.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Cleaning the Glass Surface

1
Rinse off dirt and debris with clean water. Vinyl windows can be easily scratched and discolored, so caution is needed when cleaning them. Use fresh, clean water to rinse off any loose particles and dirt from the surface by gently pouring water from a pitcher or wringing it out of a clean wet rag. Avoid wiping debris-covered windows without rinsing them first.
- To avoid scratching, you should also remove any rings, bracelets and watches you’re wearing before you begin. These can puncture the vinyl.^{[1]
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- Avoid cleaning the glass in direct sunlight.
2
Create a cleaning mixture with non-detergent soap and warm water. Mix together ¼ cup (30 milliliters) of mild, non-detergent soap (such as Woolite, Dreft or Murphy Oil Soap) and a gallon (3.79 liters) of warm water in a large bucket.
- Never use alcohol or ammonia based products, Windex, dishwashing detergents or any other cleaning products that contain abrasive chemicals.
- If used, these substances will damage the vinyl (and most likely void your warranty, as well).^{[2]
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3
Wipe down the surface with a microfiber towel. Dip a microfiber towel into the bucket of cleaning solution, then wring it out. Wipe the surface with the microfiber cloth, working from left to right (or right to left) consistently. As you wipe, use very little pressure to avoid scratching. Work quickly; don’t allow the cleaning solution to sit on the surface for any longer than necessary.^{[3]
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- Never use paper towels, household sponges or other abrasive cloths to wipe down the panel. These materials will scratch the surface.
4
Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. After wiping the panels down with the cleaning mixture, take a clean microfiber cloth and soak it with fresh, clean water. Wipe the surface down thoroughly to rinse away the cleaning solution. Work from left to right (or right to left) consistently as you rinse the surface.
- Never use a high pressure nozzle to rinse off your windows.
5
Dry the surface completely with a soft absorbent cloth. To prevent water spots from developing, use another lint-free cloth to dry the surface thoroughly. Make sure you use a soft absorbent cloth or towel to avoid scratching the panels.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Cleaning Vinyl Window Frames

1
Vacuum the panel frame with a soft brush attachment. Use the brush attachment to thoroughly vacuum all around the panel frame, windowsill and, if applicable, down into the metal tracks. Be sure to pay attention to the nooks and crannies so that you remove all loose dirt and debris.
2
Create a cleaning solution of mild dish soap and warm water.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Bridgett Price
House Cleaning Professional
Expert Interview. 23 May 2019.} Mix together ¼ cup (30 milliliters) of mild, non-detergent soap and a gallon (3.79 liters) of warm water. Make sure you’re using a soap that is very mild and non-abrasive to prevent any damage to your window frames. Ivory dish soap and Woolite are two examples of mild cleansers you can use for this.
- Never use bleach products or any other cleaning agents with abrasive chemicals.^{[5]
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3
Dip a soft cloth into the cleaning mixture. Wring out the excess solution from the cloth. Gently wipe down your window frames to remove dirt and smudges. Work quickly so that the cleaning solution doesn’t spend any longer than necessary on the frames.

EXPERT TIP

Bridgett Price
House Cleaning Professional
Bridgett Price is a Cleaning Guru and Co-Owner of Maideasy, a maid service company that services the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan area. She holds a Master of Management from the University of Phoenix, specializing in digital and traditional marketing.

Bridgett Price
House Cleaning Professional

Try using a toothbrush to get a detailed clean. When you're cleaning vinyl windows, dip a toothbrush in dish soap and water, then scrub away any built-up dirt with a circular motion. You can also use the toothbrush to clean in between the grooves of the vinyl.
4
Rinse with clean water and dry completely. Soak a fresh cloth in clean water and rinse away the cleaning solution you’ve applied to the frames. Once the frames are soap-free, use a soft dry cloth to thoroughly wipe down the surface. Make sure you dry the surface completely.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Maintaining Your Windows

1
Apply a UV protectant to the glass after each cleaning. Vinyl polish and UV protectant products will keep the panels crystal clear and prevent the sun from damaging the surface. You will extend the life of your vinyl windows by using these products after each cleaning.^{[6]
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- Follow the manufacturer’s directions for the particular product you’re using, since application techniques may vary from product to product.
2
Clean your windows at least twice per year. Vinyl windows are made of very resilient materials that can withstand deterioration that sunlight causes over time. To keep them in tip-top shape, clean your vinyl windows at minimum twice per year. If your windows have become particularly dirty after a storm or for some other reason, try to clean them up as soon as possible.^{[7]
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3
Avoid using any and all abrasive materials. Never use petroleum-based cleaners, caustic chemicals, razor blades, putty knives, abrasive pads, paper towel, or high-pressure water hoses on your vinyl windows.

Community Q&A

Question

What can I use on my vinyl windows to make them open easier?

Annie

Community Answer

If the hinges (or tracks) are metal and rusty, try a lubricant like WD-40. If they don't seal or open properly, try to check if the rubber or tracks around the frame are dirty from dust, leaves, dirt, etc. You can use an old toothbrush or something similar to get the grime out. If the handle is sticking, WD-40 will again help.