How to clean metal prints

There’s always something beautiful about canvas prints. However, metal prints take that beauty one step further, creating a memorable, statement piece and wall décor that will not be overlooked. For those who invest in this interior design feature, it’s important to know how to properly clean and maintain them.

The good news is that metal artwork like this is very durable. It creates a vibrant level of color and adds a modern appeal to any space. What's more, you can maintain it rather easily, and when you do, it can last for decades, easily becoming a generational piece you can pass down for years. There are only a few things you need to do to keep it clean and preserve its overall quality.

Cleaning Materials to Keep Metal Prints Looking Their Best

The best way to keep metal prints looking their best is to use gentle cleaning methods. This is critical to minimizing any damage to the exterior.

Cleaning materials to consider using include:

• Non-abrasive cleaners

• Mild dish soap used gently is often the only necessary option

• Soft cloths or microfiber towels

• Warm water

• Streak-free cleaning solutions

• Lint-free cleaning clothes for shining

• When possible, use a soft cloth to dust them, avoiding excessive scrubbing or water

You also want to avoid anything that could cause damage, including:

• No harsh chemicals

• No pressure washing or power washing

• No scrubbing pads

Never apply excessive force to these surfaces. It may be better to leave a spot of debris rather than scrub it off and damage the paint. While these make excellent decorating ideas, they lose their charm over time if not maintained or scratched due to excessive cleaning.

Directions on Keeping Your Unique Wall Art Looking Fabulous

Consider the following steps to keep your customized artwork looking its best. Keep it as simple as necessary.

• Remove debris: As a first step, use a soft cloth to wipe away all of the dust and debris on the surface of the print. Do this without adding water. It should remove most of the lint and dust present.

• Wipe with a damp cloth: If there is light surface dirt, dampen a microfiber cloth and wipe it gently over the surface. Start without any type of cleaning agent to preserve the paint.

• Use mild soap when necessary: Mild soap may be necessary in situations where buildup is present. Apply a small amount to a damp cloth, and be sure to gently rinse it clean.

• Spot with isopropyl alcohol: Though not ideal in all situations, isopropyl alcohol (common rubbing alcohol) can help to create an improved shine overall.

Use the previous steps to remove fingerprints or any area with smudges. However, you can also use a streak-free spray to clean the surface. Use a cloth, not paper towels, to shine the surface. Use a gentle circular motion to shine it. That should remove all of the fingerprints present.

If you have any smudges present after these steps, consider the need to remove them. Any type of abrasive material or harsh chemical will damage the surface, making it far less beneficial than removing the smudge itself.

Maintaining Your Metal Prints Over Time

As with all home decoration, you’ll want to protect your metal prints from excessive damage and risk. There are several ways you can do this with relative ease. Consider these steps.

• Avoid sunlight: Any type of direct sunlight on a metal piece of art or any type of customized artwork will cause fading thanks to UV rays. If you want to place an image on your wall where sunlight will be a daily factor, consider using a piece of UV protective film or glass over the exterior to preserve it.

• Keep the fingers off of it: While everyone loves the look of this type of decorative element, ask people not to actually touch the image. The grease and debris on your hands and fingertips can cause the most difficult-to-remove dirt that puts your surfaces at risk.

• Minimize moisture damage: Avoid placing the metal prints outside or near a window or door that is often open. While some surfaces may be okay for outdoor use, that moisture will damage the material over time and may lead to degradation of the overall quality of the image. That could impact your custom wall art.

• Protective coatings: There are some types of protective coatings available that you can spray onto the surface. If you plan to use your custom wall art outdoors, look for a product designed specifically for outdoor metal protection. Dozens of brands are out there. Your goal should be to choose a product that does not introduce shine or oil but provides a lawyer for water- and weather protection.

• Clean it often: In rooms where there is any type of dust or debris, especially where there is a fireplace, outdoor fire pit, or other smoke, make sure you clean the surface of the print at least one time a year. If it is in a location where there is the risk of grease buildup, such as a kitchen or by an outdoor grill, you may need to clean it more often.

Metal prints can contribute to your interior design in many ways. However, it is important to treat these prints as what they are: art as a statement piece for your home. With routine cleaning and attention, these prints can last for years, even with outdoor use.

Common Troubleshooting Options for Keeping Your Metal Print Clean

There are some situations where you may find that your metal print just does not look like you want it to, and that is where you’ll want to apply a few additional tips. For your wall art, consider these tips:

• Avoid denting it: When cleaning, remove it from the wall and clean it. If you clean it on the wall, there’s a higher risk of putting too much pressure on it, causing damage to the surface and even causing dents.

• Scratches: It is possible that your metal print could suffer some scratches over time. While you may wish to do all you can to reduce the risk of scratches by covering the surface, if you have them, don’t ignore them. Buff them out with a microfiber cloth by applying some pressure. Some types of protective coatings can also help.

• Dullness: Properly cleaning your art will help to restore its shine and beauty in most cases. You do not want to use any type of polish on the surface as this will trap dirt and may lead to more damage. To restore some of the natural coloring, use glass cleaner or acetone on a microfiber cloth.

There are some situations where you may want to seek out professional help to keep your metal print in the best shape. For example, if you have custom wall art that has deep scratches or there are areas where the metal is damaged from scorching, it is best to request professional restoration services. These services work to clean away dirt and debris and then allow for restoration of the actual paint and printing.

As noted, there may be some types of damage that cannot be cleaned away. As part of the vintage wall art trends, you can leave that debris there and allow for the aged look to just add value and character to the piece. If that is not the design inspiration you are looking for, reach out to a professional for restoration work. Any art restoration company can offer guidance.

Keeping Your Wall Art Looking Its Best

Metal prints are one of the best decorative elements for inside your home or outdoors. They allow you to create personalized living spaces that reflect what you love. Your job, though, is to keep them looking their best. To do that, follow the steps provided here.

At the same time, keep in mind that this is personalized art that was designed by a professional or a service like Canvaspop. Cleaning and treatment of damage will depend on the material used. For that reason, they always default to the recommendations that the manufacturer encourages. That’s going to ensure the best results.

Maintaining these wall art trends can be a great way to keep them looking their best so you can pass them on to future generations. The steps to keeping them clean and looking their best are, overall, easy to master. With consistency, your space can look fantastic, and your prints will be exceptional.

Contact Canvaspop with All of Your Needs

Canvaspop can offer you the help you need with interior décor trends. If you are looking for personalized art that you can add to the interior or exterior of your home, reach out to us about our services. Check out our collection of metal prints or review the care instructions for the existing prints we have created for you. That’s the best way to ensure the long-term durability you desire.