As part of our My Acrylix durability studies we’ve done extensive research on the best ways to clean and care for our new stamps and mounting blocks. For best results, we recommend the following:
- Clean your stamps (and the block if needed) immediately after use. The longer ink remains, the more difficult it will be to remove. (Pigment inks such as Close To My Heart Archival Ink and Staz On will permanently discolor the stamp image. As was the case with rubber, you will also notice that over time darker inks like reds and purples will also cause some discoloration.)
- Use My Acrylix Spritz or Stamp Cleaner and the Double Scrubber for regular cleaning. These products are the most effective at removing residual ink, and will not damage My Acrylix regardless of use. We recommend cleaning the stamps while still on the blocks. (Wash your Double Scrubber pads in the dishwasher to remove excess fibers.)
- Use soap and water to restore tack. Dust, dirt, and oils may cause your stamps to become less sticky over time. If you find they seem less adhesive, simply wash the stamps with dish soap and water to restore their original “stick.” (Continual use of soap and water will eventually cause a build-up. We recommend using this method occasionally, only as needed.)
- Use alcohol to remove residue. If you notice a residue on the back of your stamps, rub them with alcohol using a non-abrasive, fiber free cloth. DO NOT USE ALCOHOL ON MY ACRYLIX BLOCKS. (Extensive use of alcohol is not recommended. Use this method occasionally, only as needed.)
The following are answers to several Frequently Asked Questions in regards to the care of My Acrylix.
Q. Will Staz On ink or cleaner damage My Acrylix?
A. Staz On ink was designed for permanently decorating non-porous surfaces such as glass, metal, and ceramic, not for use in albums or with paper crafts. The ink has no effect on the stamp or block, other than discoloration. We recommend cleaning your stamps with the Spritz or Stamp Cleaner as outlined above, immediately after use for best results.
Staz On Cleaner was designed to erase mistakes or residual ink on your stamped surface before the ink dries. Although it is safe to use on your stamps, we do not recommend using Staz On cleaner (or any oil based cleaner) on My Acrylix blocks.
Q. Will alcohol damage My Acrylix?
A. As discussed above, alcohol is okay for the occasional cleaning of stamps only. We do not recommend cleaning My Acrylix blocks with alcohol-based products, as the alcohol may cause hairline fractures in the material.
Q. Is the My Acrylix Spritz Cleaner different from the Spritz Cleaner previously available?
A. No. Although we changed the name and packaging to reflect the My Acrylix brand, the product is the same. This cleaner is the preferred method of regular cleaning.
Q. Can I use baby wipes to clean my stamps?
A. Baby wipes will leave a fibrous residue on both the stamps and blocks. Although they will not damage My Acrylix, we do not recommend their use.
Q. Can I use dish soap and water instead of the Spritz or Stamp Cleaner to clean My Acrylix?
A. As mentioned, soap and water is very effective at removing the dust and dirt that can reduce “stickiness” over time. Continual use however, will cause a build up on your stamps. To remove ink, we recommend using the Spritz or Stamp Cleaner and the Double Scrubber as outlined.
Q. Can I use acetone to clean My Acrylix?
A. We do not recommend the use of acetone on any stamping product.
Q. I often use the bleaching technique. Will this harm my stamps?
A. Using the bleaching technique will not harm your stamps. We recommend that you use bleach with caution however, and immediately remove it from your stamps with the Spritz or Stamp Cleaner.
Q. I sometimes get ink on my block when stamping. What’s the best way to clean it?
A. Clean My Acrylix blocks immediately after use with the Spritz or Stamp Cleaner as needed. Do not use alcohol or oil based cleaners
