UPVC is not a delicate material and it can withstand most common household cleaners without issue. You should stay away from products containing bleach because bleach can damage the pigmentation of your UPVC. The same goes for white spirits, methylated spirits and nail polish remover for the same reason.
Now that you know what to stay away from, here are the best products to clean UPVC, whether we’re talking about traffic film or mould:
Please note: We have provided these product recommendations based on experience, but we take no responsibility for any damage they may cause to your UPVC.
Washing up liquid
Warm water with ordinary washing up liquid is perfectly adequate for cleaning dirt and grime from UPVC. You can enhance the performance of the soapy solution by using a magic sponge, which acts as a light abrasive.
Key to getting stubborn dirt, grime and mould and moss marks from UPVC with washing up liquid, is to use the right scrubber. Magic sponges work brilliantly, but you should use them sparingly since they are abrasive. For normal cleaning, use a microfibre mitt.
Rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is completely safe to use on UPVC and it is extremely useful for decontaminating the surface. You can use it neat to remove mould and moss dirt or dilute it with water to lift away traffic film.
Rubbing alcohol evaporates so you should soak a rag with it when using it neat. If you combine it with water, use a 50-50 solution. You can also soak a cotton ball with it and leave it on stubborn stains overnight. Works a charm.
No Nonsense UPVC Cleaner
If you’re looking for an off-the-shelf cleaner for UPVC, No Nonsense UPVC Cleaner is a perfectly good product. It removes grime and dirt and you can spray it into the UPVC and leave it to eat into the most stubborn stains.
No Nonsense UPVC Cleaner contains Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate and Tetra Potassium Diphosphate. These chemicals are safe to use on UPVC. For prolonged or repeated skin contact, you should use suitable protective gloves.
ZEP Commercial UPVC Solvent Cleaner
ZEP UPVC Solvent Cleaner is specially formulated to remove stubborn dirt, grime, grease and organic matter. It is stronger than No Nonsense UPVC Cleaner and a better option for old UPVC that needs a really good scrub.
This product also removes uncured sealant and ingrained marks. It contains Naphtha, a petroleum solvent that is similar to mineral spirits but not harmful to UPVC. A little goes a long way with this powerful cleaner.
