Just like any home decor item or surface in the home, resin sculpture needs to be cleaned occasionally because they absorb dust, pollutants, and oils from the air, making them look dull. However, the resin is a special material, and incorrect cleaning methods will hurt it. In this article, we provide some useful information about how to clean resin sculptures. Please kindly note, “resin” in the below information refers to unsaturated polyester resin.
Prepare Cleaning Tools and Materials
1. Mild Neutral Detergent
Suggest using a mild neutral detergent, as a strong cleaner may hurt the sculpture surface. For example, the surface can be wiped gently with warm water and soap or mild neutral detergent.
Polyester resin detergent: marketplace has a special detergent that is designed for cleaning polyester sculptures. These detergents are generally neutral and will not hurt the sculpture surface. Please kindly note, there are many resin material types, and different resins need different detergents, please make sure you are reading product instructions before purchasing.
2. Sponge or Soft Fabric
The soft and smooth material is good to clean sculptures, such as cotton fabric or sponge. Avoid using rough or hard tools to prevent sculpture surface scratches or damage.
3. Soft Brush
A soft brush is good to remove surface dust or debris.
How to Clean Resin Sculpture
1. Test Detergent
Choose an inconspicuous position to test a small amount of detergent first, such as resin sculpture bottom or back. Wait a few minutes to check if there is damage, discolor, or out of shape, it is safe to use this detergent if all ok.
2. Apply Detergent
Apply detergent to where is necessary to clean, and use a sponge or soft fabric to wipe gently, please kindly note, a hard brush or fabric does not allow as they will hurt the sculpture surface. Please be careful, don’t let the detergent enter the sculpture internally or cracks, as they will hurt the sculpture also.
3. Sponge or Soft Fabric to Remove Dirt and Stains
After applying detergent, please use a sponge or soft fabric to wipe the sculpture surface gently to remove dirt and stains. You can try applying detergent and wiping it many times for stubborn dirt. Remember to control hand strength to avoid unnecessary hurt to the sculpture surface.
4. Cleaning and Drying
Cleaning and drying is the final step. You can thoroughly rinse with clean water and dry with a clean sponge or fabric. Please kindly note, a hairdryer or heater to help quicken the dry process is not allowed to avoid unnecessary hurt. Air-drying is the best, or absorbing the moisture with a dry fabric to keep the sculpture dry.
Ways to Avoid Damaging Resin Sculptures
1. Avoid Using Strong Acid or Alkali Detergent
Strong acid or alkali detergent will hurt resin material, suggest using neutral detergent. Please test in an inconspicuous area first if you are not sure about detergent PH.
2. Avoid Using Abrasive Detergent
The abrasive detergent will scratch and wear the sculpture surface, so best choose soap or mild neutral detergent.
3. Avoid Using Hot Water
Please remember not to use hot water to clean sculptures as it will make resin material out of shape or crack.
4. Avoid Exposure to The Sun Directly
Long-time exposure to the sun directly can cause resin discoloration and brittle, so remember to put the right position.
5. Avoid Knocking or Hitting The Resin Sculpture
Resin sculpture may crack or damage if knock or hit it. Please place the resin sculpture in the right location to avoid damage.
Summary
To clean effectively, select an appropriate detergent and apply it to the surface. Use gentle wiping motions to clean the area, and then dry it thoroughly. Be sure to avoid using harsh acids or alkalis, abrasive detergents, and hot water. Additionally, protect the surface from direct sunlight and physical impact, such as knocking or hitting.
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