Keeping your polymer clay creations looking their best is important, whether you're removing dust before baking or cleaning grime from a finished piece. The methods for cleaning polymer clay depend on whether the clay is still soft or has been hardened through baking.
Cleaning Hardened Polymer Clay Projects
Once your polymer clay project has been properly baked and cured, it becomes quite durable. However, finished pieces can still accumulate dust, dirt, or fingerprints over time. Fortunately, you have effective ways to clean them and make them look like new again.
According to one method for cleaning hardened polymer clay, you can hand-bathe your polymer clay artwork with warm, soapy water. This is often the gentlest approach for general cleaning.
Here are the primary methods for cleaning baked polymer clay:
- Warm, Soapy Water: As mentioned, a gentle wash with warm, soapy water is effective for removing surface dirt and grime from hardened clay. Use a mild soap and a soft cloth or brush. Gently hand-bathe your polymer clay artwork, rinsing thoroughly with clean water afterwards. Ensure the piece is completely dry before storing or displaying.
- Rubbing Alcohol: For more stubborn marks or residue on hardened clay, rubbing alcohol can be used. However, it's important to use this method sparingly. Apply a small amount to a cotton swab or soft cloth and gently rub the affected area. Test on an inconspicuous spot first, as alcohol can potentially affect some surface treatments or paints.
Method Comparison for Baked Clay
| Method | Application Notes |
|---|---|
| Warm, Soapy Water | Gentle cleaning; suitable for general dirt; "hand-bathe" the artwork. |
| Rubbing Alcohol | Effective for stubborn marks; use sparingly; test first. |
Cleaning Unbaked Polymer Clay
Cleaning unbaked, soft polymer clay primarily involves removing lint, dust, or other debris that might get stuck to the surface while you're working. Since the clay is still pliable, liquids like water or alcohol are generally avoided as they can alter the clay's consistency.
Common ways to clean unbaked clay include:
- Gently dabbing the surface with a piece of sticky tape.
- Using specialized clay wipes designed for conditioning and cleaning.
By addressing dirt and debris both before and after baking, you can ensure your polymer clay projects maintain their quality and appearance. For baked pieces, remember the effectiveness of both warm, soapy water and rubbing alcohol when used appropriately.
