Product Care
Extend the longevity and pristine appearance of your cherished plaques by following our comprehensive product care guide.
Wooden Plaques
Cleaning an engraved wooden plaque requires some care to avoid damaging the delicate engraving. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean it properly:
Gentle Dusting: Start by gently dusting off the plaque using a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft-bristled brush. This will remove loose dirt and debris from the surface.
Mild Soap and Water Solution: If the plaque has more stubborn stains or grime, you can create a mild cleaning solution. Mix a small amount of mild liquid soap (like dish soap) with warm water in a bowl.
Damp Cloth Cleaning: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soap and water solution, making sure it’s not too wet. Wring out excess water, so the cloth is damp but not dripping.
Clean the Engraved Surface: Gently wipe the engraved surface of the wooden plaque with the damp cloth. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as it could damage the engraving or the wood. Focus on the areas that need cleaning, and don’t oversaturate the wood.
Rinse with Clean Water: If there is soap residue left after cleaning, use another damp cloth with clean water to rinse off the soap. Again, be careful not to over-wet the wood.
Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning and rinsing, use a dry, soft cloth to pat the plaque’s surface and remove any excess water. Allow the plaque to air dry completely before placing it back on display.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on the wooden plaque, as they can damage both the wood and the engraving.
Periodic Polishing: If your wooden plaque has a protective finish (e.g., varnish or wax), you can apply a wood polish specifically designed for your plaque’s type of finish. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Display Carefully: When reassembling or placing the plaque back on display, be gentle and mindful of the engraved surface. Avoid placing it in areas with excessive humidity or direct sunlight, as these conditions can cause damage to the wood over time.
Regular dusting and mild cleaning should be sufficient to keep your engraved wooden plaque looking its best.
Granite Plaques
Cleaning granite plaques with painted surfaces requires special care to preserve both the granite and the paint. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to best clean them:
Gentle Dusting: Start by gently dusting off the plaque using a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft-bristled brush. This will remove loose dirt and debris from the surface.
Mild Soap and Water Solution: If the plaque has more stubborn stains or grime, you can create a mild cleaning solution. Mix a small amount of mild liquid soap (like dish soap) with warm water in a bowl.
Damp Cloth Cleaning: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soap and water solution, making sure it’s not too wet. Wring out excess water, so the cloth is damp but not dripping.
Clean the Engraved Surface: Gently wipe the engraved surface of the wooden plaque with the damp cloth. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as it could damage the engraving or the wood. Focus on the areas that need cleaning, and don’t oversaturate the wood.
Rinse with Clean Water: If there is soap residue left after cleaning, use another damp cloth with clean water to rinse off the soap. Again, be careful not to over-wet the wood.
Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning and rinsing, use a dry, soft cloth to pat the plaque’s surface and remove any excess water. Allow the plaque to air dry completely before placing it back on display.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on the wooden plaque, as they can damage both the wood and the engraving.
Periodic Polishing: If your wooden plaque has a protective finish (e.g., varnish or wax), you can apply a wood polish specifically designed for your plaque’s type of finish. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Display Carefully: When reassembling or placing the plaque back on display, be gentle and mindful of the engraved surface. Avoid placing it in areas with excessive humidity or direct sunlight, as these conditions can cause damage to the wood over time.
Regular dusting and mild cleaning should be sufficient to keep your engraved wooden plaque looking its best.
Slate Plaques
Caring for slate plaques is essential to maintain their natural beauty and durability. Slate is a relatively low-maintenance material, but following these guidelines will help keep your slate plaque in excellent condition for years:
Regular Dusting: Dust the slate plaque regularly using a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush. This will prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris on the surface.
Gentle Cleaning Solutions: For routine cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap or a pH-balanced cleaner.
Damp Cloth Cleaning: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soap and water solution. Wring out excess water, ensuring the cloth is damp but not soaking wet.
Clean the Surface: Gently wipe the slate plaque’s surface with the damp cloth. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent any scratches.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive cleaning agents on slate, as they can damage the natural surface and cause discoloration.
Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning with the soap solution, use another damp cloth with clean water to rinse off any remaining soap residue.
Dry Thoroughly: Pat the slate plaque dry with a soft cloth to remove excess water. Allow it to air dry completely before re-displaying it.
Oil or Sealant (Optional): If you prefer to enhance the color and sheen of the slate, you can apply a slate oil or stone sealer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, and remember that this step is entirely optional.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Try to keep the slate plaque away from extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight or freezing temperatures. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can cause the slate to fade or crack.
Protect the Plaque from Impact: Handle the slate plaque with care to prevent accidental impacts or drops that could chip or crack the surface.
Indoor Display: Slate plaques are generally more suitable for indoor use. If you want to display the plaque outdoors, ensure it is in a sheltered area protected from the elements.
Inspect Regularly: Periodically inspect the slate plaque for any signs of damage or wear. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.
By following these care tips, your slate plaque will continue to showcase its natural beauty and elegance for a long time. Slate is a durable and timeless material that, with proper care, will be a lasting addition to your home or space.
Acrylic Plaques
Caring for and cleaning an acrylic plaque with painted engraved lettering requires gentle handling to preserve the clarity and appearance of both the acrylic and the painted letters. Follow these steps to maintain your acrylic plaque in pristine condition:
Dust Regularly: Dust the plaque regularly using a soft, lint-free cloth or a feather duster. This prevents the buildup of dust and debris on the surface.
Avoid Harsh Cleaning Agents: Never use harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on the acrylic plaque, as they can damage the acrylic material and the painted lettering.
Mild Soap and Water Solution: For general cleaning, create a mild cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a small amount of gentle dish soap or a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.
Damp Cloth Cleaning: Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soap and water solution. Wring out excess water, ensuring the cloth is only damp and not dripping wet.
Clean the Surface: Gently wipe the acrylic plaque’s surface and the painted engraved lettering with the damp cloth. Avoid using excessive force to prevent scratching the acrylic or damaging the paint.
Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning with the soap solution, use another damp cloth with clean water to remove any remaining soap residue from the plaque.
Dry Thoroughly: Pat the acrylic plaque dry with a clean, dry cloth to remove excess water. Make sure the plaque is completely dry before putting it back on display.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Avoid placing the acrylic plaque in direct sunlight or areas with extreme heat, as prolonged exposure can cause the paint to fade or the acrylic to become discolored.
Handle with Care: When handling the acrylic plaque, do so with care to prevent accidental impacts or scratches.
Avoid Alcohol-based Cleaners: Refrain from using alcohol-based cleaners, as they can cause damage to the acrylic surface and may degrade the paint over time.
Test Cleaning Products: If you plan to use a specific cleaning product on the acrylic plaque, always test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t harm the material or the paint.
Store Properly: When not on display, store the acrylic plaque in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment to protect it from potential damage.
By following these cleaning and care instructions, your acrylic plaque with painted engraved lettering will retain its visual appeal and remain an elegant keepsake or display piece for years to come.
