To degrease plastic, you’ll need a few basic cleaning supplies and some elbow grease. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gather Supplies: You will need a mild dish soap, a soft-bristled brush, a clean cloth or sponge, white vinegar, and baking soda.
- Pre-Cleaning: Use a clean, damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the plastic surface to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- Create a Cleaning Solution: Mix a tablespoon of dish soap with warm water in a bowl. Use enough water to create a soapy solution.
- Scrub: Dip the brush into the soapy solution and scrub the greasy areas of the plastic thoroughly. Use gentle pressure and circular motions to ensure that you’re getting into all the nooks and crannies. For stubborn grease, you can use a baking soda paste instead of soap. Mix baking soda and water to create a paste, apply it to the greasy area, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Rinse: After you’ve scrubbed the plastic, rinse the brush or sponge with warm water and use it to rinse the plastic surface thoroughly.
- Dry: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the plastic dry.
- Vinegar Solution: If you notice that the plastic still has a greasy residue after cleaning, you can use a vinegar solution. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a bowl, dip a clean cloth into the solution, and wipe down the plastic surface. The vinegar solution will cut through any remaining grease and leave the plastic surface clean and shiny.
- Repeat if Necessary: If the plastic is still greasy after using the vinegar solution, repeat steps 3 through 7 until the plastic is clean.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, to clean plastic. These chemicals can damage the plastic surface and cause it to become brittle or discolored over time.
- Store Plastic Items Properly: After you’ve cleaned the plastic, store it properly to prevent future grease buildup. Store plastic items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and avoid stacking them on top of each other.
In conclusion, degreasing plastic is a simple process that requires basic cleaning supplies and some elbow grease. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively remove grease and restore the shine to your plastic items.