The process of laser engraving is relatively simple once you’ve got the hang of it, though to achieve the best possible results, you’ll have to put some effort into preparing and caring for your materials. Though there is always some prep work to be done before starting a laser engraving project, you won’t want to forget about cleaning up your materials after a project has been completed. By learning how to clean wood after laser engraving, or other materials, you can ensure that your finished product is optimal and ready for your customers.
At Aeon Laser Canada, we know that learning how to achieve the best results is important to you. That’s why we offer our customers extensive support, including access to lifetime phone and email support. We want to help you succeed with your CO2 laser engraver, and that includes learning how to clean wood, and how to clean acrylic after laser engraving. In this post, we outline what you should know about cleaning up after engraving to ensure you achieve your desired results. Use this guide as you learn more about making a variety of products, including laser-engraved bottles, laser-engraved crafts, laser-engraved signs, and so much more.
How to Clean Wood After Laser Engraving
After laser engraving, you will often see debris left over, and you’ll want to clean this up to ensure your products look clean and ready for customers. To clean wood after laser engraving, start by gently brushing away any loose debris or soot from the surface using a soft-bristled brush or a can of compressed air. For more stubborn residue, lightly dampen a soft cloth with water or a mix of water and mild dish soap, then wipe the wood in the direction of the grain to prevent damage.
When cleaning, you’ll want to avoid soaking the wood to prevent warping or swelling. If needed, use isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab for tougher grime, but test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the finish. Once clean, dry the wood completely with a clean, soft towel. If desired, finish by applying a suitable wood polish or oil to enhance the wood’s natural beauty and protect the engraving. For more tips on improving the finished result of your wood laser projects, see our post, How to Create a Darker Effect with Laser Engraving.
How to Clean Acrylic After Laser Engraving
Cleaning up after laser engraving acrylic materials is much like cleaning up after engraving wood or other material types though you’ll want to be particularly careful to avoid scratching while cleaning. To clean your acrylic projects, use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe away any dust or residue from the engraving process. Acrylic materials may be prone to showing fingerprints or smudges. If this occurs, use a mild soap and water to remove smudges.
See our post on laser engravers for acrylic materials to learn more about the possibilities available when looking to laser engrave acrylics.
At Aeon Laser Canada, we are committed to helping you make the most of your laser engraving machine. Contact us today to learn more about the added value you get when you choose to buy your laser engraver from us. We look forward to providing you with the support you need to create with confidence.