How to Buff Out Scratches on a Plastic Window

Brass cleaner buffs out plastic window scratches.

Brass cleaner buffs out plastic window scratches.

Technology has given manufacturers the ability to create efficient and affordable residential plastic windows that compete with glass window styles. A plastic window is designed to withstand severe weather conditions and weighs half as much as a glass window of similar size. However, neither glass nor plastic windows are completely scratch-resistant. When you have a plastic window with minor scratches, you can buff the surface to remove the unsightly marks. If the scratch is deep enough to feel with your fingernail, you'll likely need to replace the pane.


Wash the plastic window surface with a mixture of warm water and liquid dish soap. Wipe the plastic clean with a soft cloth, making sure to clean the scratched areas. Avoid using paper towels and abraisive cleaners that could potentially damage the plastic surface.


Dispense a small amount of a brass cleaner, containing petroleum distillate and ammonium hydroxide, onto a soft microfiber cloth. Squeeze a few drops of brass cleaner on the cloth and rub the scratch gently, using a circular buffing motion. The cleaning compound fills small cracks, and the gentle rubbing motion buffs the plastic surface.


Wipe off residual brass cleaner with a clean cloth. If the scratch is still visible, reapply the brass cleaner and apply a small amount of pressure as you rub the compound into the plastic. Continue the circular buffing motion until the scratch disappears.

Things You Will Need

  • Liquid soap
  • Soft microfiber cloths (or circular buffing pads)
  • Brass cleaner
  • Protective gloves


  • Circular microfiber automotive pads are thicker than microfiber cloths and don't wear out as quickly.


  • Wear protective gloves and make sure the area is well-ventilated when applying brass cleaner. Keep brass cleaner sealed when it's not in use.

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