What Makes Plexiglass Shine?

Plexiglas, commonly called "plexiglass," is a transparent acrylic plastic with many uses around the home in any place that needs a transparent material that isn't easily broken, such as skylights, aquariums, shatterproof windows and coffee tables. Although it looks like glass, you should not clean plexiglass using the same cleaners that you would use on glass. If you want your Plexiglas to shine, you need to follow the proper cleaning procedures for it. Does this Spark an idea?

Detergent Solution

Never use a dry cloth or your hand to dust Plexiglas or to wipe off stains or grime. This will actually work the dirt into the surface, making it appear dull or dirty. Instead, mix 1 tsp. of liquid dishwashing detergent into a pint of water. Wet a sponge or soft cloth with this mixture and gently scrub the plexiglass with it. If the sponge or cloth becomes dirty in one spot, switch to scrubbing with a clean area to avoid scratching the surface with the dirt, which can be abrasive. Afterward, wipe it with clean water without soap and then dry it with a soft cloth.

Bleach Solution

Bleach is also a safe cleaning agent to use on Plexiglas. However, it can darken aluminum surfaces, so be careful with it if your Plexiglas is adjacent to any aluminum surfaces. Bleach must be diluted before it is safe to use. Mix 1 tbsp. of it in with 1 gal. of warm water. Make sure that you do this in a well-ventilated area.

Other Cleaners

If you have Plexiglas stained with grease, oil or tar, then mild detergent or bleach solutions may not be enough. To remove these stains, use kerosene or hexane and immediately wash the Plexiglas with water afterward. Follow the manufacturer's safety instructions when using these products.

Warning

Never use cleaning products with alcohol or ammonia in them on Plexiglas. This includes the majority of commercial window cleaning products. Never use acetone, gasoline, benzene, carbon tetrachloride or paint thinner either. These chemicals will damage all damage the surface of plexiglass, giving it a foggy or frosted appearance. Never use abrasive or harsh scouring agents to scrub, as these will scratch the surface. Use only soft cloths or sponges. If you want to use a commercial cleaner on your Plexiglas, make sure that it says that it is suitable for Plexiglas or acrylic plastics on the label.