Switches are one of those objects that we manipulate every day with our hands full of fingers. They therefore tend to quickly accumulate dirt, stains of unidentified origin, bacteria and discolorations. However, there is a widespread tendency to neglect their cleaning. Whether during spring cleaning or at different times of the year, you must tackle this task. What maintenance products should I use to clean a dirty switch and make it look like new? Grandma tells you everything.
Before proceeding with any washing, take precautions to avoid any risk of electrocution ! This starts with cutting off the electricity. Also be careful not to wet your cloth too much so as not to soak the area. Water could indeed seep behind it, which is not without risk. Finally, and again for this same reason, do not spray your product directly on the switch. You can also of course remove the switch from the wall in order to clean it, but also replace it altogether if it is beyond repair. However, to avoid multiplying your plastic waste, always try a good cleaning before buying another one.
How to clean a plastic switch
Use household alcohol
Household alcohol helps disinfect the switch in addition to removing stubborn stains, including fingerprints. To do this, spray this product on a soft, lint-free cloth. Then, scrub the stained areas vigorously. Finally, wipe with a dry cloth to dry the plastic well.
Use Marseille soap
Mix warm water with a little soap and lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with this solution before scrubbing. If necessary, repeat the operation several times and pay particular attention to the dirtiest areas. Dry thoroughly with a dry cloth once cleaning is complete.
Use baking soda
A small paste made from water and bicarbonate will allow you to clean and whiten plastic gently. Use a microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge here for careful application of this solution. Then leave it on for a few moments and rinse with a slightly damp cloth.
Whiten a white plastic switch
Sometimes, even using the best household products, it is not enough to restore shine and whiteness to a white switch, particularly because of tobacco. However, it is easy to whiten plastic using a few drops ofhydrogen peroxide or the clay stone. The white vinegar can also help to deyellow everything effectively. It is also possible to use the retr0brightbut this trick is less natural and requires the use of gloves. It consists of mixing 20 cl of hydrogen peroxide at a minimum of 12%, 1/2 teaspoon of Vanish Oxi Action and 3 teaspoons of thickener (cornstarch, talc, etc.). Apply, leave in the sun and rinse carefully.
How to clean a wooden switch
Wooden switches are less common than plastic ones, but they too deserve good maintenance. To do this, you can of course use a special solution for cleaning wood that you can buy commercially. However, you can also simply pour a few drops ofhuile de lin or evenolive oil and use it to clean, nourish and polish wood. It is the simplest and most economical solution which also remains very effective. Just be careful not to add too much oil so as not to grease the switch.
What about cleaning a metal switch?
Metal is more prone to the appearance of fingerprints. This can therefore quickly dull them and make them look dirty. However, a simple solution of water and vinegar or soapy water can ensure effective cleaning of this metal surface. It will therefore be enough to polish them gently with a cloth lightly soaked in liquid to restore their former shine and cleanliness.