Acrylic is tough, but it doesn't handle the same cleaners as glass. The most common way people ruin an acrylic piece is by cleaning it with isopropyl alcohol. Here's the right way to do it.
What not to use
- Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). It can cause fine cracks, called crazing, and leave acrylic cloudy.
- Acetone, nail polish remover, or other solvents. These can melt or soften acrylic.
- Coarse salt or abrasive scrubbers. They scratch the surface.
- Boiling water or the dishwasher. High heat can warp acrylic.
What you need
- Warm water (comfortable to the touch, not hot)
- An acrylic-safe cleaner, such as Formula 420 Acrylic Cleaner
- A soft bottle brush or pipe cleaners
- A soft cloth
Step by step
- Take it apart. Pull the slide and bowl, and remove the base if your piece has a removable one. Empty the water.
- Rinse. Run warm water through the tube to flush loose residue.
- Clean the tube. Add the acrylic cleaner, following the directions on the bottle. Cover the openings and shake gently, or work through the tube with a soft brush.
- Clean the small parts. Use pipe cleaners on the bowl, slide and downstem. Glass parts can soak in isopropyl alcohol on their own, as long as they're away from the acrylic. Rinse them well before putting them back.
- Rinse again. Flush everything with warm water until no cleaner remains.
- Dry. Let it air dry, or wipe the outside with a soft cloth. Reassemble once dry.
How often?
Change the water after every session, and give it a full clean about once a week with regular use. Frequent cleaning is easier than scrubbing old buildup, and it keeps acrylic from holding odor.
Already cloudy?
Light haze from mineral deposits often comes off with the cleaner and a soft cloth. Crazing from alcohol damage is permanent, which is why it's worth avoiding alcohol from the start.
New to acrylic? See our acrylic size guide, or shop Graffix acrylics and cleaners.
Graffix products are for legal tobacco use only. You must be 21 or older to purchase.