How to clean caravan windows

Here, we examine the difference between caravan windows and your windows at home, and tell you how to clean them for the best results.

Are caravan windows the same as house windows?

The short answer to this is no, they are different. Caravan windows and motorhome windows are usually manufactured from acrylic and are often double glazed. In double glazed windows, two acrylic panels – a flat inner panel and a shaped outer panel – are joined together.

The difference between caravan windows and house windows

The acrylic used in caravan windows is susceptible to cracking under impact and the surface can be prone to scratch easily. Acrylic windows can also develop crazing where fine cracks appear on the surface; crazing can occur if an incorrect window cleaning product is used on them. Once crazing develops, it cannot be reversed and the window will need to be replaced.

Things to avoid when cleaning caravan windows

• Never be tempted to polish your windows, as the dust and dirt can cause scratches.
• Do not use a cloth that you have used to clean other items – any dirt or grit on the cloth, as well as chemical residue from cleaning products may scratch the acrylic.
• Do not use scourers or scouring compounds.
• Do not use window and glass cleaning products as the chemicals in them will damage the acrylic.
• Do not use a pressure washer or rotary polisher on acrylic windows.
• Avoid using methylated spirit, as this will cause crazing.

Instead follow these simple steps for the best results:

• Using a new cloth, or a clean cloth that has been used previously on acrylic, such as a microfibre cloth or chamois leather which reduce static, start by removing surface dirt with the wet cloth.
• Always use a product designed for acrylic windows, such as Fenwick’s Motorhome Cleaner and apply with a microfibre or chamois leather cloth. For hard to reach windows or skylights, a telescopic microfibre wash brush is perfect.
• Rinse away all residue of the cleaning products with a hose or with a clean, wet cloth.
• Once all residue has been removed, take a clean, dry microfibre or chamois cloth and dry the windows thoroughly.

What can I do if my caravan windows have small scratches?

Small scratches can sometimes be removed if they are not too deep. Use a product like Fenwick’s Windowize, after you have cleaned the windows. Simply apply a small amount to the window and buff with a soft, clean cloth; scuff marks from trees, and shallow scratches caused by dirt and grit should buff away easily.

If the rubber seals surrounding the windows need cleaning, simply wipe them over with a wet cloth and dry thoroughly. Once dry, you can go round the seals with a duster sprayed with a silicone lubricant – this will stop them from sticking and cracking.

Getting in to the habit of giving your windows a quick clean when you arrive at your destination will help you not only to fully appreciate your surroundings, but also to keep scratches to a minimum. Our friendly sales team is on hand to help with any window cleaning queries you might have and can be reached at our shops during opening hours, via telephone or by email at sales@becingoldmells.co.uk