Safety Instructions
Here are the essential care instructions to provide for your pieces:
Sun & Temperature:
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Even with high-quality UV inhibitors, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause resin to yellow or fade over time. Display pieces in shaded or indirectly lit areas.
Keep Away from Heat: Resin has a “heat deflection temperature.” Placing a piece near a radiator, stovetop, or leaving it in a hot car can cause it to soften or warp.
Coaster Safety: If the pieces are coasters, ensure the resin has fully cured (usually 21 days for maximum heat resistance) before placing very hot mugs on them to avoid surface “rings.”
Cleaning & Chemicals
Gentle Washing:
Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth with warm water and mild dish soap.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use abrasive cleaners, window cleaner, or alcohol-based products. These can dull the surface or cause the resin to become “tacky.”
Microfiber is King: To remove fingerprints or dust without scratching the high-gloss finish, a dry microfiber cloth is the best tool.
Physical Handling
Avoid Sharp Objects:
While resin is tough, it can be scratched by knives, keys, or rough sponges. Treat the surface like you would a delicate gemstone or glass.
Avoid Impact: Dropping resin on a hard surface (like tile or concrete) can cause it to chip or crack, especially if it contains heavy inclusions like stones or large dried flowers.
Not Dishwasher/Microwave Safe: Never put resin items in the dishwasher or microwave. The extreme heat will ruin the chemical bond and the aesthetic of the piece.
Food Safety
Incidental Contact Only:
Unless the specific resin used is certified “Food Safe” for direct contact, it is best to use resin trays and boards for “incidental” contact only (e.g., serving crackers in their wrappers or as a base for bowls) rather than placing wet or hot food directly on the surface.
Pro-Tip:
If a piece does get a minor surface scuff, it can often be restored using a fine plastic polishing compound and a soft buffing pad.