Composite doors are prized for their durability and low-maintenance finish. Unlike timber doors, they don’t need painting or staining. However, a little regular cleaning will keep your front door looking its best and prevent any long-term build-up of dirt and grime. Here’s our simple guide.
What Cleaning Supplies Do I Need?
You don’t need any special products. To clean your composite door safely and effectively, you will only need:
- A bucket of warm water
- Mild soap, such as washing-up liquid
- Two soft, non-abrasive cloths (one for washing, one for drying)
- A soft-bristled brush to remove any loose debris
A Simple Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Remove Loose Dirt: Use a soft brush to gently wipe away any loose dust, cobwebs, or debris from the door and its frame.
- Wash the Door: Mix a small amount of mild soap into your warm water. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and gently wash the entire surface of the door. Keep the door open to clean the edges and frame that are normally concealed.
- Clean the Hardware: Use the same soapy water and cloth to wipe down the handle, letterbox, knocker, and any other hardware.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the door thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Finally, use your second clean, dry cloth to buff the door and prevent water spots.
- Clean the Glass: If your door has glass panels, clean these last with a dedicated glass cleaner or your soapy water solution, then buff to a streak-free shine.
How to Maintain Hinges and Locks
To ensure smooth operation, it’s a good idea to lubricate the moving parts of your door every six months.
Clean the locks and then apply a Teflon-based lubricant. For hinges, handles, and door knockers, a light engineering oil works best. It is important to avoid using WD-40, as this can dry out the mechanisms over time.
What Cleaning Products Should I Avoid?
Using the wrong product can permanently damage your door’s finish. Never use any of the following:
- Abrasive scourers, wire wool, or hard-bristled brushes
- Bleach or other harsh chemical cleaners
- Solvents, abrasive powders, or oven cleaners
To see our full range of composite doors click here.
