Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500107
06/24/03
Vinyl Plastic
Vinyl is thermoplastic. It is made into film and
bags, and refrigerator gaskets, used to coat fabric for
upholstery and to coat wallpaper for washability, and in
making floor tile, countertops, window screens, and other
items. It is strong, resists weathering and most
chemicals, and may be transparent, as film.
It may have an odor when boxed so needs airing
before use. Also may have an odor if not dried thoroughly
before storing. Do not use moth repellents with it as
they harm it. Do not put on lacquered surfaces as it may
stick. Stands moderate heat but do not expose to too much
heat.
Vinyl upholstery fabrics are porous and will absorb
stains, and dye from fabrics that crock or bleed.
Applying a vinyl protective finish, sold for upholstery
or for vinyl tops of cars, will protect the surface and
retard absorption of stains.
Wash with warm suds, rinse, and dry. Do not use hot
water nor scouring powder not other abrasives.
Vinyl cleaners made by many companies for textured
vinyl upholstery or vinyl car tops may help clean deeply
soiled upholstery. Follow directions. Wood-grain vinyl
tops or sides of cabinets should be wiped with a damp
cloth.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with references from Ohio Extension
bulletins Choosing and Using Microwave Utensils and
Accessories and other Plastics handouts.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .