How to care for your 3D printed pieces

3D printed objects are durable, but the layer-by-layer surface needs a little different care from moulded plastic.

1. Dust with a soft brush

Fine layer lines collect dust. A soft paintbrush or makeup brush gets into the grooves better than a cloth. For stubborn marks, use a damp microfibre cloth and dry it straight away.

2. Keep PLA away from heat

PLA softens above about 55 °C. Keep it out of hot cars, off stove tops and out of the dishwasher. In printed lamps, always use LED bulbs, which stay cool. Never use an incandescent or halogen bulb.

3. Plant pots: use a liner or drainage tray

A nursery pot or saucer inside a printed planter stops soil and minerals from staining the layers and makes repotting easy.

4. Mind long direct sunlight

Bright colours can fade after months on a sunny windowsill. PETG holds up better outdoors if you need a piece in the sun.

5. Not food-safe by default

Layer lines can trap bacteria, so treat printed pieces as decorative unless we've specifically sold them as food-safe.