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What Should I Know About Cleaning Plastic?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Cleaning plastic is something just about everyone has to do at one time or another. With plastic products ranging from storage containers to outdoor furniture to bathroom fixtures and accessories, knowing how to clean plastic is essential. If you are not sure how to clean plastic substances around your home, here are some tips that may help.

One of the basic rules to cleaning plastic is to never use abrasive cleaning products. Even hard plastic surfaces are easily scratched. This can ruin the finish on the plastic and leave the item looking worn. Stay away from steel wool pads, powdered cleaners with abrasive qualities, or harsh detergents. Instead, use sponges, soft cloths, and mild detergents when cleaning plastic.

A plastic box.
A plastic box.

While cleaners in aerosol cans are convenient, they are not always the best option when it comes to cleaning plastic. Many people assume that glass cleaner in a can or spray bottle is safe to use on plastic shower stalls or toilet seats. While the damage may not be immediately visible, aerosol can products developed for cleaning glass or wood will sometimes cause the plastic to begin pitting. Over time, this will leave the fixture with a mottled appearance that doesn’t appear to be clean no matter how hard you scrub.

Plastic tube.
Plastic tube.

One of the problems with cleaning plastic food containers is that they sometimes absorb some of the coloring of the food stored in them. For example, a plastic storage container may have a reddish tinge after being used to store spaghetti sauce. When this is the case, it is important to use a gentle cleaner that is considered safe for plastic. As part of the plastic stain removal process, allow the container to soak in a mixture of warm water and cleaner, then wash the container thoroughly with a mild dish detergent. If the plastic is dishwasher safe, you can run it through the dishwasher two or more times until the stain is removed.

A plastic food storage container.
A plastic food storage container.

When cleaning plastic, make it a point to use plastic cleaner products that are right for the type of plastic you are cleaning. Keep in mind that a formula that is ideal for cleaning the resin table and chairs on the patio may not be the best option for cleaning a plastic rain poncho. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and only use plastic cleaners that are recommended for the type of plastic you wish to clean. While this seems like a lot of trouble on the front end, this simple precaution will help prolong the life of your plastic items while also helping them appear new and fresh for a longer period of time.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon321896

You could use a stick and a cloth to reach the bottom.

anon180377

Fill it with water to the top, add a 1/4 cup or less of Clorox. Let it stand overnight and watch!

anon113130

Does anyone know how to clean a plastic water container that is 1 1\2" deep, 12" long and 8" wide. I can't find a bottle brush long enough to reach the bottom.

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    • A plastic box.
      By: design56
      A plastic box.
    • Plastic tube.
      By: vlorzor
      Plastic tube.
    • A plastic food storage container.
      By: withGod
      A plastic food storage container.
    • Aerosol cleaners can damage plastic over time.
      By: picsfive
      Aerosol cleaners can damage plastic over time.
    • Certain types of aerosol products can cause damage to plastic toilet seats.
      By: Jiri Hera
      Certain types of aerosol products can cause damage to plastic toilet seats.