Alexei Volkov
Sun exposure can cause plastic toys to crack and lose their colour. To restore discoloured plastic toys, you can use hydrogen peroxide or a plastic conditioning product. For white plastic that has faded to yellow, a 12% hydrogen peroxide cream can be applied and left to sit in direct sunlight. For toys with scratches, a plastic buffing product can be used. Regularly treating toys with commercial plastic conditioning products can also help preserve them.
How to Restore Sun Faded Plastic Toys
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prevention | Regularly treat plastic toys with commercial plastic conditioning products |
| Severe damage | Use hydrogen peroxide to reverse discolouration (only on white, grey, or yellowed plastic) |
| Severe damage alternative | Repaint the plastic |
| Cleaning | Wash and dry the plastic surface with a damp microfiber cloth and lukewarm water |
| Tough stains | Clean with a mixture of 0.5 fl oz (15 mL) of liquid laundry detergent and 16 fl oz (470 mL) of warm water |
| Scratches | Use a plastic buffing product and buff in circular motions with a cloth rag |
| Commercial products | Polytrol, Back to Black, lacquer thinners, car polish |
| Respraying | Heat gun (may cause further damage) |
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What You'll Learn
Using hydrogen peroxide to restore colour
To restore the colour of sun-faded plastic toys using hydrogen peroxide, you will need a 12% hydrogen peroxide cream designed for bleaching hair. This process will work on any kind of plastic as long as it hasn't been painted.
First, cover any coloured parts of the plastic toy with masking tape to protect them. Put on a pair of thick rubber gloves and set the toy on a stable work surface with a towel underneath it. Then, use a paintbrush with natural bristles, an old toothbrush, or a foam brush to apply the hydrogen peroxide cream directly to the discoloured areas. Continue applying the cream until there is a thick layer covering every discoloured section.
If your plastic toy is small, you can simply submerge it in a bowl of 3% hydrogen peroxide and let it soak for 24 hours instead of applying the cream.
Once the cream has been applied, seal the toy in a clear plastic bag or zippered storage bag to prevent the cream from drying out. If your toy is too large for a plastic bag, use clear garbage bags and tie or zip the opening shut. Place the toy in direct sunlight for 4 hours, checking and rotating the bag every hour to ensure that the cream remains damp and that the sunlight hits the discoloured area evenly.
Finally, rinse the cream off the toy with a damp rag or under a steady stream of cool water before it dries. If the toy has any electronic components, spot wash the restored area with a soft sponge.
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Applying plastic conditioning products
To restore sun-faded plastic toys, you can use commercial plastic conditioning products. These products should be applied regularly to preserve the toys and prevent further sun damage.
Before applying any product, ensure the plastic surface is clean and dry. Use a microfiber cloth dampened with lukewarm water to wipe down the toy, removing any dirt, dust, or debris.
Once the toy is clean and dry, you can apply the conditioning product. Follow the instructions on the product label for specific application instructions. Typically, a small amount of the product is applied to a cloth rag or directly to the plastic surface. Then, using circular motions, buff the product into the surface until it is evenly distributed.
It is important to choose a conditioning product that is specifically designed for treating plastic. Some products may be too abrasive and can further damage the toy. Look for products that are designed to restore and protect plastic surfaces, such as those advertised for use on car bumpers or outdoor furniture.
Additionally, consider using a product with UV protection to help prevent future sun damage. These products can create a protective barrier between the plastic and the sun's harmful UV rays, slowing down the fading process and maintaining the toy's colour for longer.
By regularly cleaning, conditioning, and protecting plastic toys, you can restore their appearance and prolong their lifespan.
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Buffing out scratches
To restore sun-faded plastic toys, one method is to buff out scratches. This method is suitable for shallow scratches. Firstly, clean the area by using a damp cloth dipped in warm water mixed with a mild detergent to remove any dirt and grime. Then, you can use a gentle abrasive like toothpaste or baking soda to buff away the scratches. Apply enough toothpaste to cover the scratched area and use a dry cotton cloth to work in small circles until the scratches disappear. You can also use a baking soda paste made by combining two parts baking soda to one part water. Dip a cotton cloth in the paste and apply it using the same circular motion. After using these methods, rinse the area with warm water.
If the scratch is deeper, you can try using fine-grade sandpaper. Wet the sandpaper and fold it into thirds before use. If the plastic has become dull after scratch removal, you can use a commercial plastic or metal polishing compound to restore shine. Apply a small amount to a clean, dry cloth and polish the area in small circles. Finally, buff the area with a lint-free microfiber cloth until the shine is restored.
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Removing dirt and debris
To restore sun-faded plastic toys, it is important to start by removing any dirt and debris. This is a crucial step in the restoration process as it ensures the surface is ready for effective cleaning and the application of restoration products. Here is a detailed guide on how to remove dirt and debris from plastic toys:
Firstly, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the plastic toy. Lukewarm or warm water can be used to dampen the cloth. This initial wipe-down will help to loosen and remove any surface-level dirt, dust, or debris. It is important to be gentle during this step to avoid scratching the plastic.
Next, prepare a cleaning solution to tackle tougher stains and grime. In a bucket or container, mix a small amount of liquid laundry detergent with warm water. The exact quantities can vary, but a ratio of detergent to water can be followed—for instance, 0.5 fl oz (15 mL) of detergent with 16 fl oz (470 mL) of water. You can also add a small amount of all-purpose household cleaner to this mixture for a more potent solution.
Now, dip a clean microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wring out any excess liquid. Use this damp cloth to wipe down the plastic toy, focusing on areas with visible dirt or staining. For more intricate or harder-to-reach areas, you can use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the plastic. Ensure you work the cloth or brush in a gentle, circular motion to avoid scratching the surface.
If the plastic toy has hard-to-remove grime or residue, you can use a heat gun on its lowest setting. Hold the heat gun 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) away from the surface and move it in a back-and-forth motion. This will help to melt away the discolored layer caused by dirt and sun damage. Always be cautious when using a heat gun, and ensure the plastic is suitable for this treatment.
For softer plastics, a different approach is recommended. Create a sprayable solution by mixing liquid laundry detergent, a household cleaner, water, and bleach. Wear protective gear, such as rubber gloves and goggles, when handling these chemicals. Mix approximately 1⁄3 cup (79 mL) of detergent, 2⁄3 cup (160 mL) of cleaner, 1 US quart (950 mL) of bleach, and 1 US gallon (3.8 L) of water. Transfer this mixture to a spray bottle and generously apply it to the discolored areas of the plastic toy. Allow the solution to soak for a few minutes before thoroughly rinsing the toy with cold water.
Finally, regardless of the method used, always ensure the plastic toy is completely dry before proceeding with any further restoration steps. You can let the toy air-dry or use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture.
By following these steps, you will effectively remove dirt and debris from sun-faded plastic toys, preparing them for further restoration treatments.
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Repainting the plastic
Repainting plastic toys can be a great way to save money and reduce your environmental impact. It is important to note that plastic is one of the more difficult surfaces to paint due to its smooth surface and temperature responsiveness, which makes it prone to cracking or flaking over time. Here are some detailed instructions to help you repaint plastic effectively:
Prepare your work area:
Spray painting is best done outdoors to ensure proper ventilation and prevent overspray issues. Check the paint can for temperature requirements to ensure it's not too cold for the paint to set properly. Protect your work area by laying down a tarp, plastic sheet, or a large piece of cardboard.
Clean the plastic surface:
Start by scrubbing the surface with a dry brush to remove any loose paint or debris. Then, use soapy water to thoroughly clean the surface, removing any dirt, mildew, or algae. Ensure the surface is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
Sand the plastic:
Use fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the smooth plastic surface. This step is crucial as it helps the paint adhere better to the plastic. Sand the entire surface evenly, making sure not to create any visible sanding marks. Wipe away any sanding dust with a dry cloth.
Prime the plastic:
Although not always necessary, using a plastic-specific primer can improve paint adhesion and help your final coat last longer. Apply the primer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
Spray paint with your chosen colour:
Select a spray paint specifically formulated for use on plastic, such as Krylon Fusion, Rust-Oleum Universal, or Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover. Hold the can 8-12 inches away from the toy, tilting it down at a 45-degree angle. Apply light coats of paint, waiting the proper dry time between coats as per the paint directions. It is important to be patient and build up thin layers to avoid drips and ensure an even finish.
Final curing and touch-ups:
If the toy is meant to be handled or sat on, allow several days for the paint to fully cure. Once the paint is completely dry, use extra-fine sandpaper to gently smooth out any rough spots with a light circular motion. Finally, wipe away the sanding dust with a dry cloth, followed by a damp cloth to ensure the toy is ready for use.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use hydrogen peroxide to restore the colour of sun-faded plastic toys. First, clean the toy with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any dirt. Then, if you are treating a coloured toy, tape over any coloured sections with clear or masking tape to protect them. If the toy is white, you can apply the hydrogen peroxide directly. Use a 12% hydrogen peroxide cream and brush it onto the toy with a paintbrush, foam brush, or old toothbrush. Seal the toy in a plastic bag and place it in direct sunlight, rotating the bag every hour. Once the colour is restored, rinse the cream off with a damp rag.
You can try using a plastic conditioning product or car polish to restore the toy's colour. You can also try a heat gun, but be careful as this may cause further damage. If all else fails, you can repaint the toy.
To prevent sun damage, you can treat plastic toys with commercial plastic conditioning products regularly.
