Caring for Your Custom Engraved Items: Simple Tips for Long-Lasting Beauty
Custom engraved items—whether it’s a name tag, a crystal trophy, or a personalized desk wedge—are more than just decorative or functional pieces. They often represent milestones, achievements, and personal touches that deserve to be preserved. Over time, even the highest quality materials can lose their luster if not properly maintained.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy care tips to keep your engraved pieces looking as stunning as the day you received them. From dusting and polishing to handling and storage, these simple steps will help extend the life and appearance of your custom items—whether they’re proudly displayed on a desk, worn daily, or showcased in a trophy case.
Let’s get into the details of how to protect your investment and preserve the brilliance of your personalized items.
At a glance here are the most important care instructions
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Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe away dust, fingerprints, and smudges.
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Avoid abrasive materials like paper towels or rough cloths that can scratch surfaces.
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For deeper cleaning, use:
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A mild soap solution (a few drops of dish soap in warm water)
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A soft cloth dampened with the solution
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Wipe gently, then dry with a clean microfiber cloth
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- Keep out of direct Sunlight if possible
Name Tags (Plastic, Metal)
Materials: Engraved plastic, aluminum, brass, acrylic
Do:
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Store in a cool, dry place when not in use
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Clean gently with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed
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Use plastic polish (like Novus) for acrylic to remove fine scratches
Don’t:
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Avoid contact with harsh chemicals (e.g., alcohol, acetone, bleach)
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Don’t use abrasive scrubbing pads or polishes
Crystal Trophies and Awards
Materials: Optical crystal, glass, sometimes acrylic
Do:
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Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
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Use glass cleaner or a 50/50 vinegar-water solution sprayed on a cloth (not directly on the item)
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Handle with clean hands or gloves to prevent oils from transferring
Don’t:
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Never use ammonia-based cleaners on etched surfaces
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Don’t expose to direct sunlight for extended periods (to prevent fading or heat stress)
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Avoid putting pressure on sharp edges or corners
Desk Wedges (Wood, Metal, Plastic)
Materials: Engraved wood, metal name plates, marble bases
Do:
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Use furniture polish for wood; apply sparingly with a soft cloth
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Wipe metal plates with a microfiber cloth; use a small amount of metal polish for tarnished brass
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Clean marble or stone with a damp cloth and pH-neutral cleaner
Don’t:
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Avoid excessive moisture which can warp wood or dull marble
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Don’t use abrasive cleaners or ammonia-based products
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Avoid dragging across surfaces to prevent scratches underneath
Storage and Environmental Tips
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Keep items away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and high humidity to prevent discoloration, warping, or adhesive failure.
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Store unused items in soft cloth bags or padded containers to avoid scratches or chips.
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Avoid stacking items directly on each other—use soft separators or keep them in original packaging.
