Faded plastic that isn’t discolored is typically caused by oxidization. There are multiple ways to remove oxidization using a variety of different cleaning solutions, so choose the cleaning solution based on the type of plastic that is faded. Hard plastics that can use this method include storage bins, cutting boards, acrylic aquariums, and plastic furniture.
If the plastic is still faded, repeat this process. Instead of letting the vinegar and water sit on the plastic though, scrub it into the surface with a clean sponge. Vinyl plastic is commonly used for exterior siding, car mats, computer cases, and gym mats. Do not use this method to clean vinyl records, though.
Wash your plastic thoroughly with soap and water after doing this. You don’t want any detergent or bleach residue sticking to your plastic. Soft plastics are typically found on children’s toys, malleable storage containers, and souvenirs. If the plastic is bendable or feels light, it’s probably a softer plastic.
Use masking tape to cover up any surfaces that you don’t want to cover in paint. You can use a brush and an acrylic paint designed for plastic if you prefer. This is likely to leave brush marks behind, though. You can add multiple layers of paint after letting it dry if you want to deepen or darken the color. If you only paint the affected area, the new paint will clash with the older layers of paint.
This process will work on any kind of plastic so long as it hasn’t been painted. Plastic turns yellow or brown if it was mixed with bromine before it was fabricated. The bromine prevents plastic from catching fire, but over time, sunlight turns the plastic yellow or dull brown.
You can use multiple sheets of plastic wrap if necessary.
If it’s cold out or you don’t have a yard, you can leave your plastic item next to a sunny window. If multiple sides of the plastic are covered, you can repeat this process for each side of your plastic.
It may take 3-6 hours for the discoloration to disappear. Repeat this process as often as you need to until the discoloration is gone.
This process is perfect for plastic side mirrors, bumpers, and trim. Do not do this on painted surfaces.
You do not need to worry about any glass or rubber surfaces, although you should definitely cover any chrome with masking tape.
If you hold the heat gun in the same location for too long, the plastic may melt. If you’re doing this on plastic trim, run the heat gun back and forth along the entire portion of the trim to heat it evenly and equally.
On vehicles, discolored plastic is usually a combination of dirt and sun damage. This creates a layer of discolored plastic on top of your vehicle. The heat gun literally melts this discolored layer off. Since the exterior layer is worn down, it will melt at a lower temperature than the unblemished plastic underneath.
