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How to Clean Vintage Plastic

Time alters all materials, including plastic. When plastic is exposed to sunlight and oils over long periods of time, chemical reactions occur. These chemical reactions cause white plastic to become a dingy yellow color. Fortunately, most vintage plastic items can be restored, and the yellow discoloration removed. Bleach, water, and detergent are usually effective solutions used to clean vintage plastic, but superfine sandpaper may be necessary as well. Cleaning the plastic does not guarantee complete removal of the yellow discoloration.

Things You'll Need

Water
Bleach
Bucket
Sponge
Laundry soap
Superfine sandpaper
Washcloth

Instructions

- 1
  Pour a mixture of one part water and one part bleach into a bucket. Fill up the bucket so that the plastic item will be completely submerged in the solution.
- 2
  Place the plastic item into the bucket. Allow the plastic item to soak in the solution for several hours, or until it turns white.
- 3
  Remove the plastic item from the bucket, and rinse the plastic off with clean water. Dampen a sponge with water and add a drop of laundry detergent.
- 4
  Scrub the sponge over the plastic item to remove any dirt and grime. Rinse the plastic item in clean water, and then allow the item to air-dry.
- 5
  Check the plastic item for discoloration and dirt. If the item needs more cleaning, rub superfine sandpaper over the plastic to remove yellow discoloration and grime.
- 6
  Continue rubbing the plastic with the sandpaper until the item is clean and no more discoloration remains. Dampen a washcloth in water, and then wipe the cloth over the plastic item to rinse off the dust.

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