Acrylic and plastic products are chosen for their clarity, strength and versatility, but like any material, they perform best when properly cared for. At Denny Plastics, we manufacture and supply high-quality acrylic (often known by brand names such as Perspex®) and plastic solutions for retail, industrial, commercial and domestic use.
Whether you’re using acrylic displays, machine guards, signage or protective screens, following the right maintenance practices will help preserve appearance, performance and lifespan.
Below, we share our expert guidance on keeping acrylic and plastic products looking their best for years to come.
Best practices for cleaning Perspex® without scratching
Acrylic is strong but softer than glass, meaning incorrect cleaning can cause fine scratches or clouding over time. The good news? With the right approach, it’s easy to maintain a crystal-clear finish.
Do:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth such as microfibre
- Clean with lukewarm water and a mild, non-abrasive detergent
- Rinse with clean water to remove residue
- Gently pat dry rather than rubbing aggressively
Avoid:
- Paper towels, scouring pads or rough cloths
- Household cleaners containing ammonia, alcohol or solvents
- Window sprays designed for glass
- Dry wiping dusty surfaces (this can drag particles across the surface)
Top tip from our workshop: For regular maintenance, specialist acrylic cleaners and polishes can help reduce static build-up and maintain optical clarity.
Preventing UV damage and yellowing over time
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can affect some plastics, leading to discolouration or brittleness. Many modern acrylics, including those we supply, are UV-stabilised, but good placement and care still matter.
How to minimise UV damage:
- Use UV-resistant acrylic for outdoor or sun-facing applications
- Avoid positioning products in constant, direct sunlight where possible
- Clean regularly to prevent surface contaminants accelerating degradation
- For signage or displays, consider protective coatings or filters
If you’re unsure which material is best for your environment, our team is always happy to advise, choosing the right plastic from the start makes long-term care far easier.
Long-term care tips for different environments
Different settings place different demands on plastic products. Here’s how to care for acrylic and plastic in some of the most common environments we work with:
Outdoor Use
- Choose weather-resistant, UV-stable materials
- Wash periodically to remove dirt, salt or pollution
- Inspect fixings and edges for signs of stress or movement
Retail & Commercial Spaces
- Clean displays frequently to maintain clarity and presentation
- Use anti-static cleaners to reduce dust attraction
- Avoid harsh cleaning routines during busy trading hours
Industrial Environments
- Check products regularly for impact damage or chemical exposure
- Use appropriate cleaners compatible with your specific plastic type
- Replace heavily worn components to maintain safety and compliance
Why proper care matters
Well-maintained acrylic and plastic products don’t just look better, they:
- Last significantly longer
- Perform more reliably
- Maintain safety standards
- Offer better value over time
At Denny Plastics, we design and manufacture plastics with durability in mind, but correct care ensures you get the very best from your investment.
If you’d like advice on cleaning, maintenance or selecting the right plastic for your application, our experienced team is always on hand to help.
