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How to Clean PVC Pipe by Brooks Owen I’ve been making things with PVC pipe for over 25 years and have seen and read about all sorts of "magic solutions" for cleaning pipe. For the most part, it takes a little time and elbow grease to get the job done properly. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be done without too much effort. And, once you get the hang of it, the job goes rather smoothly. Here are the best ways I’ve found: How to Remove Manufacturer’s If you want to remove the manufacture's markings from the pipe, it's best to do it before you begin gluing-up your project. Otherwise, PVC cement may cover some of the markings thus making it impossible to remove. Here are 4 ways to do it (plus 2 I haven't tried)... 1. Dab a little powdered cleanser (like Comet or Ajax) onto a green nylon scouring pad (or use a Brillo/SOS pad), dampen and simply rub off the markings. Rinse. This method also cleans off most any other marks and dirt. Sometimes this works OK, sometimes not. It depends on ink ingredients. Tip: I usually cut the various lengths of pipe for my project first, then clean off the markings with Comet or whatever. It's easier, less cumbersome. 2. For stubborn marks you may want to try this: • Get a small chunk of 000 or 0000 steel wool, soak it in acetone and simply begin rubbing off the marks. • Don't clean the whole pipe at once. Do it in short sections of 2 or 3 feet. Acetone dries quickly and the marking dye tends to smear. • Wipe off with an old white rag BEFORE the acetone dries. • Change the steel wool after cleaning about 10 feet of pipe. CAUTION: Be sure to wear rubber gloves and an eye shield, and follow the directions on the acetone container. Work in a well ventilated area. 3. Sand the markings with 80-grit sandpaper. (This will, of course, rough-up the pipe a bit. So it's up to you, depends on what your project is.) And finally, in my opinion, the best and easiest way is to... 4. Use a low-cost sanding pad. Get the medium grit on one side/fine grit on the other. You’ll find them at most any hardware store. The nice thing about a sanding pad is it conforms to the pipe’s contour and will quickly remove markings with light pressure. What’s more, they’re long lasting. To me, this is much better and easier than fooling around with acetone or cleaning agents. In addition, light sanding is best for good paint adhesion. One more thing. I’ve tried 3M’s Washable SandBlaster Coarse (36) Sanding Sponge for stripping paint. So far, after several uses, it’s working pretty well. 5. I've been told that blue lettering can be removed with carburetor cleaner. I've not tried that method. 6. Removing the markings with lacquer thinner has been suggested as a method. Again, I've not tried it. How to Clean Prepare a simple solution consisting of one quart water and 1/4 cup bleach in a spray bottle. Spray the PVC, then wipe with a clean white cloth or paper towel. For stubborn stains, use a green nylon scouring pad. I've been told that a product called Greased Lightning will clean and remove "chalking" from PVC furniture. However, I've not tried it or know where to purchase the product. To shine your PVC project, or to remove light scratches, rub in a bit of non-gel toothpaste onto the surface. Rub it off with a paper towel then buff with a clean white cloth. |