Congratulations on being recognized for your outstanding achievements! Acrylic awards are a fantastic way to celebrate your success, and you'll want to keep them looking as amazing as the day you received them. However, maintaining their pristine condition requires proper care and cleaning. This guide will walk you through the best practices for caring for your acrylic awards, ensuring they remain a stunning testament to your accomplishments for years to come.

Why Proper Care is Essential

Acrylic awards are popular due to their clarity, durability, and elegance. However, unlike crystal, acrylic is susceptible to scratching and can become dull if not cared for properly. By following the appropriate cleaning methods, you can preserve the brilliance and transparency of your acrylic awards.

Regular Dusting

Dusting your acrylic awards regularly is the first step in maintaining their appearance. Dust can accumulate on the surface, making them look dull and dirty. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dust. Here are some tools you can use:

Feather Duster: Ideal for a light dusting without the need for any chemicals.

Microfiber Cloth: Excellent for removing fingerprints and buffing the surface to a shine.

Lint-Free Cloth: Best for tackling stubborn dust and fingerprint marks.

Dust your awards every other week, depending on the air quality in your home or office, to prevent buildup.

Cleaning Methods for Acrylic Awards

Mild Soap and Water

For a thorough cleaning, avoid using household cleaners that contain chemicals which can cause the acrylic to dull or haze. Instead, follow these steps:

Use Room Temperature Water: Avoid hot water, as it can damage the acrylic.

Mild Dish Soap: Apply a small amount of mild dish soap to a clean cloth that hasn’t been used for any other purpose.

Gently Rub the Award: Use the soapy cloth to gently clean the award, taking care not to scratch the surface.

Wipe Dry Completely: Use a lint-free cloth to dry the award completely, ensuring no water spots or streaks are left behind.

Commercial Cleaners to Avoid

Certain cleaners can damage acrylic. Here are some you should never use:

Windex or other glass cleaners

Multipurpose cleaners

Bathroom cleaners

Ammonia or chemical sprays

Alcohol (methyl, ethyl, isopropanol) or denatured alcohol

Acetone

Abrasive cleaners

These products can cause the acrylic to become cloudy, streaked, or even permanently damaged.

Additional Tips for Acrylic Awards Care

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause acrylic to yellow over time. Display your awards in a shaded area to maintain their clarity and appearance.

Handling Silver-Plated Acrylic Awards

If your acrylic award features silver-plated elements, use a polishing cloth to gently buff away any tarnish. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can scratch the surface. If you're unsure whether your award is silver-plated, err on the side of caution and use a soft cloth for cleaning.

Caring for your acrylic awards is simple with the right approach. Regular dusting and gentle cleaning with mild soap and water will keep them looking spectacular. Avoid harsh chemicals and direct sunlight to prevent damage. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your acrylic awards remain a shining symbol of your achievements for years to come.

Remember, maintaining the brilliance of your awards is a testament to the value you place on your accomplishments. Keep them in pristine condition and let them continue to inspire and motivate you! Get started creating your bespoke awards.