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How to Care for Your 3D Printed Plate

2 min read
Person gently cleaning a custom 3D printed number plate with a soft cloth

Your PL8M8 plate is made from PLA, a durable and lightweight plastic that's long-lasting with a bit of care. Follow these tips to keep it looking fresh.

Cleaning

Wipe down with a soft, damp cloth or microfibre towel. That's it - no special cleaners needed. If you're curious about the materials and process behind your plate, our behind-the-scenes article explains how each plate is printed.

Avoid: Abrasive scrubbers, solvents (acetone, methylated spirits), and soaking in water. These can dull the matte finish or damage the surface.

Temperature

PLA softens at around 60 °C (its glass transition temperature is 60-65 °C), so avoid leaving your plate in direct sunlight behind a windscreen on a hot day or near heat sources like ovens or heaters. Normal indoor temperatures are perfectly fine.

Sunlight

Prolonged UV exposure can gradually fade colours over time. For the longest-lasting vibrancy, display your plate indoors or in a shaded outdoor area like a covered patio or carport.

Mounting Tips

  • Adhesive tape: Clean the mounting surface with isopropyl alcohol first for the best bond. Press firmly and allow 24 hours for full adhesion.
  • Velcro strips: Stick one side to the plate and the other to the wall. Great for repositioning or swapping plates without damage.
  • Magnetic mounts: Ensure the surface is ferrous (a fridge magnet is a quick test). The embedded magnets are strong but work best on flat, smooth surfaces.
  • Screw fixings: Work on wood, plasterboard, and most solid surfaces. Pre-drill if mounting on hardwood to avoid splitting.

For a full walkthrough on mounting methods for every surface, see our wall mounting guide.

Storage

If you're storing your plate, keep it flat in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top as prolonged pressure can cause warping.


Got questions about your plate? Check our Help Centre or get in touch.