Clean Plexiglas
First created in 1933, Plexiglas is made of acrylic and is a shatter-proof, light-weight alternative to real glass. There are many uses for Plexiglas, including motorcycle helmet shields, commercial aquariums, automobile headlight covers, medical industry applications and other artistic, technological and transportation uses. Plexiglas is flexible and durable, however it scratches easily when cleaned. Use these tips to clean Plexiglas.
Steps
- Remove surface dust or dirt from Plexiglas.
- Blow the dirt and dust from the Plexiglas surface using an air hose powered by an air compressor. Point the air hose so it can blow the dirt to one side or another of the Plexiglas surface, instead of pointing the air directly at the surface.
- Wipe the Plexiglas surface with a cloth dampened with warm water. Do not apply pressure as you skim the dirt from the surface.
- Clean the Plexiglas surface.
- Mix a solution of 1/4 c. (59 mL) laundry detergent with warm water in a gallon (3.78 liters) bucket. Stir with your hand to completely mix the soap and water.
- Wipe the Plexiglas surface with a clean sponge or microfiber cloth that has been immersed in the bucket. Apply pressure to stubborn stains like grease or oil.
- Dry the Plexiglas by blotting it with a dry, soft cloth. Do not rub with the cloth, as this can create scratches.
- Polish the Plexiglas surface to reduce future stains.
- Apply automobile wax to the Plexiglas using the pad provided or a soft cloth. Put the wax on in a thin layer. The wax should not be a cleanser/wax combination. Automobile wax helps deflect dirt and dust.
- Buff the wax into the Plexiglas with a chamois, t-shirt scrap or a flannel cloth. If you notice any dust or dirt residue on the Plexiglas, do not rub in that area, as your rubbing motions can scratch the surface.
- Remove static electricity from the Plexiglas surface by wiping it with a dry, soft cloth. Do not apply pressure as you run the cloth across the Plexiglas. Static electricity, unless grounded, attracts dust and other particles to the Plexiglas.
Tips
- Always use clean, new cloths or sponges to clean Plexiglas. Used items can contain rough edges or other particles that can cause scratches to Plexiglas.
- Avoid scratches in Plexiglas by keeping objects away from the surface.
Warnings
- Never rub dirt or other particles on the surface of your Plexiglas item with a dry cloth. A dry cloth rubs dirt into the surface and can scratch your Plexiglas.
- Do not use abrasive, scouring compounds, window-cleaning fluids, gritty cloths, gasoline or other solvents that contain acetone, alcohol or carbon tetrachloride to clean any Plexiglas surface.
Things You'll Need
- Automobile wax
- Air compressor
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Warm water
- Bucket
- Laundry detergent
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