How to clean a composite door
Composite doors are a popular choice for homeowners thanks to their energy efficiency, security and durability. They require very little maintenance – but it is important to keep them clean, both to keep them looking their best and ensure they last for years to come.
Regular cleaning helps prevent the build up of dirt and grime – both of which can damage the surface of the door, as well as its hardware. By keeping your composite door clean, you’ll ensure you preserve its quality and durability, meaning it can continue to provide effective security and insulation for your home or place of work.
Preparation for cleaning a composite door
Luckily, you don’t need many supplies to clean a composite door – in fact, you probably already have everything you need at home!
- A soft cloth
- Bucket
- Mild soap
- Non-abrasive sponge
But before you dive in, be sure to review any cleaning instructions supplied by Safestyle. Individual manufacturers may have specific guidance around cleaning, so it’s important to ensure you use the correct method and materials to protect your door’s finish – and to make sure you’re still covered by your warranty.
Step-by-step guide to cleaning a composite door
To get the best results when cleaning your composite door, you should follow the following steps (unless of course, the manufacturer’s instructions advise differently).
Dust and wipe down: Start by removing surface dust and dirt using a dry cloth. This ensures you’re starting with a blank slate, meaning you’re less likely to miss patches when cleaning. It also ensures your door won’t be scratched by any debris lingering on the surface.
Wash the door: Prepare a mixture of warm water and mild soap or detergent in a budget. Soak a non-abrasive sponge in the soapy water, then gently wipe it across the surface of the door. Be sure to cover all areas, including the edges, corners, handle and any decorative features.
Rinse thoroughly: Once the door’s clean, rinse it with clean water to remove any soap residue. Making sure that all of the soap is removed will prevent any streaks and spots forming as the door dries.
Dry the door: Finally, use a soft dry cloth to wipe the door completely dry. Again, this helps to prevent water spots and streaks, and will leave your door looking clean and polished.
Special considerations for cleaning a composite door
To keep your composite door looking at its best, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Firstly, avoid using harsh chemicals. Abrasive cleaners and solvents can damage the surface of your door, stripping away the protective top layer, causing discolouration, or scratching the surface. All of these things may reduce the door’s lifespan, while also affecting its appearance.
Additionally, if there’s any glass in your door, then you should treat this differently. For glass panels, use a specialist glass cleaner that’s specifically designed windows. Don’t apply it directly to the glass, though, as this could cause streaks. Instead, apply it to a soft cloth or paper towel, then gently wipe the glass in a circular motion, ensuring that all residue is removed for a spotless finish.
Maintenance tips for composite doors
Staying on top of cleaning your door will improve its longevity, and keep it looking pristine. It’s a good idea to establish a regular cleaning schedule to prevent the build-up of any dirt and grime – plus, any dirt that does accumulate will be much easier to clean off when you do so on a regular basis.
As part of these regular cleans, you should also check your door for any signs of wear or damage. Look out for cracks, dents and issues with the seals – and address any problems promptly. This will ensure that any issues don’t cause deterioration, keeping your door safe, secure and looking good.
Why should you clean your composite door?
Your door is one of the first things that visitors see when visiting your home or business – so you want it to look the best it can be. Regular cleaning will keep your door looking fresh, ensuring that dirt and grime doesn’t ruin its curb appeal.
But cleaning is about more than just aesthetics. Whether it’s a front or back door, if dust and dirt build up, it can cause surface damage and reduce the door’s lifespan. Composite doors are also susceptible to mould and mildew growth if they’re not maintained properly – which can degrade the door’s material and create health hazards.
So, when you maintain a clean door, you’re not only creating a welcoming entrance to your home or business, but you’re also protecting its structural integrity and ensuring it lasts for years to come.
How often should you clean your composite door?
It’s best to clean your composite door on a monthly basis, to help keep it looking good and functioning properly. If it’s looking particularly dirty you can, of course, give it a thorough wipe down more often.
How often should I clean the glass paneling in my composite door?
Unless the glass is streaked or dirty, you can also clean the glass paneling in your door on a monthly basis. Use a special glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel to avoid damaging the glass, and apply the cleaner to the cloth rather than directly on the glass to avoid streaks and achieve a spotless finish.
What is the best way of cleaning composite doors?
To keep your composite door clean, it’s best to use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild, non-abrasive detergent and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these might damage the door’s surface. And if you have any glass panels on your door, these should be cleaned with a dedicated glass cleaner.
But of course, the manufacturer’s instructions always take precedence, so be sure to read these first before cleaning your door.
It couldn’t be easier to keep your composite door clean – all you need is a mild, non-abrasive detergent and a soft cloth. Our doors are low-maintenance and modern, with a huge choice of stunning styles in eleven different colours. And by following these simple maintenance tips once a month, you can ensure your composite door stays in great condition.
