How to Clean Plastic Knobs

Plastic knobs are everywhere--inside cars, on kitchen appliances, on home electronics and children's toys. Since plastic is so cheap and durable, it can be found virtually anywhere. While knobs on appliances and toys make our lives easier, they tend to collect dirt and grime. It is important to clean your plastic knobs just as you would clean any other surface in your home. This guide will show you the process you should take to clean the plastic knobs in your house.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Textured sponge
• Liquid dish soap
• Water
• Cotton swab applicators
• Towel or paper towel

1. Wipe the plastic knobs with a moist, textured sponge. This initial step is mainly to remove chunks and hardened material from your knobs. In fact, you may have to scrub fairly hard to remove some of the grime.

2. Rinse your sponge and place a few dots of liquid dish soap on the sponge. You will use liquid dish soap as your one and only cleaner. It is antibacterial, yet mild enough to uphold the plastic quality.

3. Wipe the knobs once again with the sponge. Be sure to wipe all surfaces of the plastic knob with the liquid dish soap. Once you have done this, dry with a paper towel.

4. Pull the knobs out as far as they can go. Many will come right off. Most, however, will easily extend to a certain point. This will make it easier for you to clean the post that holds the knobs in place and the area behind the knobs.

5. Use a cotton swab applicator dipped in soapy water and stick it between the plastic knob and the appliance. Rub it around and clean the post and the back of the knob. You may need to change cotton swab applicators a couple of times due to excess dirt.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your plastic knobs every few months on appliances that don't see a lot of action. On frequently used stoves and ovens, however, clean plastic knobs at least once a month.
• Never use abrasive products or chemicals on your plastic knobs. The abrasive products could scratch the plastic, and other cleaning chemicals could slowly break down the plastic exterior over time.