How to Properly Clean your Acrylic

Acrylic sheets are a great alternative to traditional glass, and this is the case for a multitude of reason. First, acrylic glass (sometimes called Plexiglas or Luctie), is substantially more durable than glass. This is the case for cracks, scratches, nicks, and breaks, so you could say acrylic is all around stronger than glass. Another clear perk is that you can make acrylic glass at different thicknesses, which isn't possible for glass. As you begin to make thick plates of glass, the glass picks up a greenish color. This is not the case for acrylic, and this is why you can find them at so many different aquariums. Acrylic is lighter than glass, easier to color, and is usually cheaper to produce. Just because acrylic offers a lot of perks doesn't mean that is comes without its downside.

One issue you have with acrylic is the cleaning process. You cannot treat acrylic like glass or other surfaces, and so you must get the appropriate cleaning gear/supplies.

If you use window cleaner, ones that have ammonia, gasoline, alcohol, or acetone, your acrylic may begin to crack. The chemicals found in certain cleaners can actually be extremely harmful for acrylic. Your best option for safe cleaning is to mix soap/detergent with water. When making the mix, keep the solution mild. There are specialty products that are designed for cleaning acrylic. Make sure to use an approved product or a soap solution. Once you have your solution, don't just put it on the acrylic. There are certain steps you should take to help make the process go more smoothly.

1) Blow away (with mouth or can of compressed air) any dust or dirt that isn't stuck to the service.

2) Apply the solution to the wall, but make sure you do it with a non-abrasive and lint-free cloth. If you can find a cloth that is non-contaminating too, that will be a good thing. You want to dampen your sponge or cloth. Don't soak the cloth or the acrylic.

3) After you are finished scrubbing, rinse the whole piece with clean water.

4) When drying, don't use an old rag or paper towel. Find a cellulose sponge or a microfiber cloth. This is how you can get rid of water spots that might be left behind with other rags or towels.

If you take care of your acrylic, it will last for an extremely long time.

How to Properly Clean your Acrylic

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