VINYL – Care & Cleaning Suggestions

Posted July 10, 2013 in Tips

WARNING
Many strong cleaning agents such as dishwashing detergents, bleaches or any petroleum based cleaners or solvents can permanently damage vinyl and should never be used.  Powdered abrasives, cleaners containing abrasives, steel wool, and industrial strength cleaners are not recommended for vinyl.  Any lacquer solvent will cause immediate irreparable damage to vinyl.  Wax should never be used on any vinyl upholstery as it will cause premature embrittlement and cracking.  Dilute chlorine bleach before using.  Never use at full strength.

 

Ordinary Soil Removal – Vinyl upholstery should be cleaned periodically to prevent build-up or dirt and contaminants which may permanently stain the vinyl if they are not removed.  Most ordinary soil can be removed by washing with warm soapy water and rubbing briskly with a soft cloth, followed by several clear water rinses.  A soft bristle brush may help loosen soil embedded in embossed surfaces.  For more stubborn stains use a mild detergent.  Check the product label to ensure it is recommended for vinyls.

Oil Base Paint – The use of turpentine in a well ventilated area will remove fresh paint.  Dried paint must be moistened carefully with a semi-solid gel type stripper so that the softened paint can be gently scraped away.  Rinse with soap and water.  CAUTION:  Direct contact with paint strippers will remove the print pattern on the vinyl.

Latex Paint – Fresh paint can be wiped off with a damp cloth.  Hot soapy water will normally remove dried latex.

Tar, Asphalt – Remove immediately, prolonged contact will result in a permanent stain.  Use a cloth lightly dampened with mineral spirits or kerosene and rub the stain gently, working from the outer edge of the stain towards the center in order to prevent spreading.  Rinse with soap and water.

Chewing gum – Scrape off as much as possible with a dull knife.  Rubbing with an ice cube will assist and make it easier to remove when scraping.  The remaining gum should be removed in a well ventilated area using a cloth saturated with mineral spirits.  Use light rubbing.  Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Surface Mildew – Wash with diluted bleach, use a soft brush for stubborn growth.  Rinse repeatedly with clean, cold water.

Ballpoint Ink – Ink spots will stain vinyl permanently.  Immediately wipe with rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth.

Lipstick, Grease, Oil, Shoe Polish, Crayon – Wipe off excess.  Apply a small quantity of mineral spirits with a soft cloth and gently rubbing.  Work inward to prevent stain from spreading beyond its original source.  Immediate removal of shoe polish is suggested or permanent staining may occur.  Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Candy, Ice Cream, Fruit, Liquor, Wine, Soft Drinks – Use clear lukewarm water and a sponge repeatedly.  Loose material should be gently scraped with a dull knife.  Any soiled area remaining after drying should be gently rubbed with a cloth spotted with a small quantity of alcohol.  Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Blood – Rub out any spots with a clean cloth soaked in cool water.  If stubborn spots remain, use household ammonia and rinse repeatedly with a clean, wet cloth.  Do not use hot water or soapsuds as this will set the stain.

Vomit – Sponge the stained area with soapy water containing a diluted bleach until the stain is removed.  Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Urine – Sponge with soapy water containing a small amount of household ammonia.  Rinse thoroughly with clean water.