---
title: How to Clean and Care for Acrylic Display Cases
description: Learn how to clean and care for acrylic display cases to maintain their clarity and durability, preventing scratches, yellowing, and damage. Follow best practices for cleaning, handling, and storing.
---

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# [How to Clean and Care for Acrylic Display Cases](https://info.gaylord.com/resources/caring-handling-acrylic-like-a-pro)

 Written by [Gaylord Archival](https://info.gaylord.com/resources/author/gaylord-archival) | Jan 19, 2024

Acrylic is a lightweight, transparent plastic widely used for display and storage of artifacts. Its versatility allows it to be cut, glued, heated, bent and shaped into custom solutions for securely holding, showcasing and protecting items both in storage and on exhibit.

Despite its flexibility and durability, acrylic requires careful handling and maintenance to prevent damage. Risks are greatest during cleaning, transport and storage. Improper care can lead to split glued seams, surface scratches, or even cracking and breakage. Following best practices for acrylic care ensures your display cases and protective coverings remain clear, strong, and attractive over time.

## Best Practices for Cleaning Acrylic

*This applies to items made from acrylic, such as risers, mounts, stands and standard & UV-filtering acrylic vitrines. Specialty acrylics, such as Optium, require specialized cleaning not covered here. *

- Only clean acrylic when it's dirty
- Use cleaners made specifically for acrylic (e.g., [NOVUS](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Conservation-Supplies/Cleaning-Supplies/NOVUS-Acrylic-Cleaning-%26-Scratch-Removal-Kit/p/61-KIT), [Acrifix®](https://www.gaylord.com/Exhibit-%26-Display/Cleaning-Supplies-%26-Equipment/Cleaners/Acrifix%26%23174%3B-Antistatic-Acrylic-Cleaner/p/HYB09137), [Brillianize®](https://www.gaylord.com/Exhibit-%26-Display/Cleaning-Supplies-%26-Equipment/Cleaners/Brillianize%26%23174%3B-32-oz-Acrylic-%26-Glass-Cleaner-%26-Polish/p/BRIL32))
- Do not use ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners. They will cause yellowing, hazing and scratches.
- Use [a nonabrasive, low-lint cloth](https://www.gaylord.com/Exhibit-%26-Display/Cleaning-Supplies-%26-Equipment/Cloths-%26-Sponges/KIMTECH%26%23174%3B-12-x-12%22-Low-Lint-Kimwipes%26%23174%3B-%2890-Pack%29/p/34721)—never paper towels.
- Spray cleaner onto the cloth, not directly on the acrylic, and buff with the dry side. 
- For scratches, use the[NOVUS 3-Step Scratch Removal System](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Conservation-Supplies/Cleaning-Supplies/NOVUS-Acrylic-Cleaning-%26-Scratch-Removal-Kit/p/61-KIT).

## Handling Acrylic Vitrines

- Always ensure you have enough people to lift and support the vitrine.
- Have a clear space ready to set the vitrine down before moving it.
- Wearing [gloves](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Conservation-Supplies/Gloves/Sure-Grip-Cotton-Gloves-%2812-Pairs%29/p/HYB00484)or using [vacuum/suction cups](https://www.gaylord.com/search?text=vacuum+cup) can help maintain grip.
- Never carry a vitrine by its sides—support the bottom edges and keep it upright.
- [Four-sided vitrines](https://www.gaylord.com/c/Floor-Standing-Wall-Cases) require extra support to prevent seam damage.

### Storing & Transporting Acrylic

- Wrap pieces in nonabrasive material (such as [tissue](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Textile-Preservation/Tissue-%26-Preservation-Materials/Gaylord-Archival%26%23174%3B-Buffered-Acid-Free-Tissue-%28Roll%29/p/HYB01354), [polyethylene foam](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Conservation-Supplies/Wrapping%2C-Lining-%26-Support-Materials/Volara%26%23174%3B-Polyethylene-Foam-%285-Pack%29/p/HYB01371) or [bags](https://www.gaylord.com/Storage-%26-Handling-Equipment/Packing-%26-Shipping/4-mil-Polyethylene-Sheeting-%28100-ft-%29/p/HYB01549)).
- Avoid direct contact with bubble wrap.
- Nest items of different sizes if they don’t touch each other.
- Stack wrapped items properly—*never* place weight on top of vitrines.
- Do not place any weight on top of vitrines.
- Store on the strongest edge; do not lay vitrines on their sides.
- Stand vitrines on their bottom or top edges.

## FAQs About Acrylic Vitrine Care

- **Can I use Windex or glass cleaner on acrylic? **  
  No, avoid ammonia and alcohol-based cleaners like Windex, as these can cause yellowing, hazing or permanent damage to acrylic surfaces. Use only [cleaners specifically formulated for acrylic](https://www.gaylord.com/c/Cleaners-0).
- **What should I do if my acrylic display case gets scratched? **  
  Light scratches can often be buffed out with an acrylic polish or a specialized scratch removal kit like [NOVUS](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Conservation-Supplies/Cleaning-Supplies/NOVUS-Acrylic-Cleaning-%26-Scratch-Removal-Kit/p/61-KIT). For deep scratches, consult a professional for repair. 
- **How can I store acrylic vitrines to prevent damage? **  
  Store on the strongest edge, never lay vitrines on their sides, and avoid stacking items on top. Use nonabrasive materials for wrapping and keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- **Can acrylic be repaired if it cracks or breaks?**  
  Minor cracks may sometimes be repaired with acrylic adhesive, but significant breakage usually requires professional attention or replacement.
- **Why is static electricity a concern with acrylic?**  
  Acrylic generates static, which attracts dust. Regular dusting and cleaning with an [antistatic cleaner](https://www.gaylord.com/c/Cleaning-Supplies-and-Equipment-0) will help maintain clarity and appearance. 
- **How many people are needed to move an acrylic vitrine safely? **  
  Always have enough people to support the vitrine's weight and size—never attempt to move large vitrines alone. Support the bottom edges and keep the vitrine upright during transport.
- **Can I use bubble wrap to protect acrylic during storage or transport? **  
  Using bubble wrap directly against acrylic can cause fine scratches, abrasions, or even leave imprints on the surface. Use nonabrasive materials like [tissue](https://www.gaylord.com/Preservation/Conservation-Supplies/Wrapping%2C-Lining-%26-Support-Materials/Nomex%26%23174%3B-Gentle-Wrap-Roll/p/HYB01381)or [polyethylene](https://www.gaylord.com/Storage-%26-Handling-Equipment/Packing-%26-Shipping/4-mil-Polyethylene-Sheeting-%28100-ft-%29/p/HYB01549)instead. 

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