ᐅ After cleaning my KALLAX with a disinfectant wipe, it became cloudy – how can I polish it?
Created on: 5 Apr 2021 08:42
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praPaulineP
praPauline5 Apr 2021 08:42Hello everyone,
I have a small but annoying problem with my KALLAX shelf from IKEA. After wiping the surface with a common disinfectant wipe—mainly due to current hygiene requirements—the front of this melamine plastic furniture has suddenly become cloudy and dull. It looks like there is a fine haze or matte film on it that definitely wasn’t there before.
I’m specifically interested in whether there is a recommended way to remove this cloudy effect, preferably by some type of polishing or gentle treatment. Of course, I don’t want to damage the surface further or harm the plastic, but rather restore the original clear finish.
Has anyone had experience with this or any advice on how to proceed? What products are suitable, which should be avoided, and what is the best method? Thanks in advance!
I have a small but annoying problem with my KALLAX shelf from IKEA. After wiping the surface with a common disinfectant wipe—mainly due to current hygiene requirements—the front of this melamine plastic furniture has suddenly become cloudy and dull. It looks like there is a fine haze or matte film on it that definitely wasn’t there before.
I’m specifically interested in whether there is a recommended way to remove this cloudy effect, preferably by some type of polishing or gentle treatment. Of course, I don’t want to damage the surface further or harm the plastic, but rather restore the original clear finish.
Has anyone had experience with this or any advice on how to proceed? What products are suitable, which should be avoided, and what is the best method? Thanks in advance!
Hello praPauline,
First of all: The problem with a cloudy surface after using disinfectant wipes on furniture with melamine resin coating is quite common. Often, this cloudy film occurs due to the interaction between the solvents in the disinfectant wipe and the surface.
Here is a brief guide for gentle polishing and removing the haze:
1. Cleaning: First, wipe the surface with lukewarm water and a soft microfiber cloth to remove any disinfectant residue.
2. Polishing: Then, use a special furniture polish product suitable for plastic or melamine surfaces. Apply with a soft, lint-free cloth using circular motions.
3. Alternatively, a small amount of a commercial car polish or plastic care product can be used. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to rule out any adverse reactions.
4. Under no circumstances use abrasive cleaners or sandpaper.
5. Finally, dry the surface and buff it with a clean cloth.
In summary: Proceed carefully, use a polish suitable for plastic, and always test first on an inconspicuous spot.
I hope this helps!
First of all: The problem with a cloudy surface after using disinfectant wipes on furniture with melamine resin coating is quite common. Often, this cloudy film occurs due to the interaction between the solvents in the disinfectant wipe and the surface.
Here is a brief guide for gentle polishing and removing the haze:
1. Cleaning: First, wipe the surface with lukewarm water and a soft microfiber cloth to remove any disinfectant residue.
2. Polishing: Then, use a special furniture polish product suitable for plastic or melamine surfaces. Apply with a soft, lint-free cloth using circular motions.
3. Alternatively, a small amount of a commercial car polish or plastic care product can be used. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to rule out any adverse reactions.
4. Under no circumstances use abrasive cleaners or sandpaper.
5. Finally, dry the surface and buff it with a clean cloth.
In summary: Proceed carefully, use a polish suitable for plastic, and always test first on an inconspicuous spot.
I hope this helps!
PAR63 schrieb:
The problem of a cloudy surface after using disinfectant wipes on furniture with a melamine resin finish is not uncommon.Exactly. These surfaces are made of melamine, a plastic that reacts sensitively to certain cleaning agents. The milky haze often results from micro-swelling or surface damage.
To remove it, a specialized plastic or melamine care polish is suitable, which gently smooths the surface again.
As an alternative to polish, a mixture of water and a neutral dish detergent can be used to gently dissolve residues.
Aggressive chemicals, acetone-containing products, or high-concentration alcohol should be avoided, as they can deepen or widen the film.
Ideally, after cleaning with polish, allow the furniture to air dry completely before using it normally.
I completely fail to understand why disinfectant wipes containing substances like alcohol or other solvents are simply used on furniture that is not designed for that purpose.
That is exactly what happens all the time! Who would immediately think of that when at IKEA? Maybe the damage is self-inflicted, and we just have to learn that not every cloth is suitable for every surface. Rather than polishing, I would prefer honest wiping with a damp cloth.
I believe the manufacturer should provide clearer warnings about what should not be used.
KARJU schrieb:
One should avoid aggressive chemicals, acetone-based products, or high concentrations of alcohol
That is exactly what happens all the time! Who would immediately think of that when at IKEA? Maybe the damage is self-inflicted, and we just have to learn that not every cloth is suitable for every surface. Rather than polishing, I would prefer honest wiping with a damp cloth.
I believe the manufacturer should provide clearer warnings about what should not be used.
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