The lifespan of PVC craft products not only depends on product quality, but also closely relates to daily maintenance. Proper maintenance methods can effectively avoid issues such as material aging, deformation, and fading, maintaining the aesthetics and performance of the products. For different scenarios and types of PVC craft products, the focus of maintenance varies slightly. This article summarizes general maintenance principles and categorized maintenance tips to help everyone better maintain their PVC craft products.
The general maintenance principles apply to all PVC craft products. Firstly, avoid direct sunlight. PVC materials are prone to aging, fading, becoming brittle, and even cracking when exposed to strong ultraviolet rays for a long time. Indoor products should be placed away from direct sunlight, such as windows and balconies; outdoor products can be shielded by awnings or regularly coated with UV-resistant protective agents. Secondly, control the environmental humidity. Although PVC materials are waterproof and moisture-proof, prolonged exposure to high humidity can lead to mold growth on the surface and rusting of hardware accessories (if any) at the joints. Indoor areas should be kept ventilated and dry. During humid seasons, a dehumidifier can be used to reduce humidity; outdoor products should have their surface moisture wiped off promptly after rain. Thirdly, clean properly. Daily accumulated dust and oil stains can affect the appearance of the product. When cleaning, use a soft cotton cloth or sponge dipped in warm water to gently wipe away. Avoid using corrosive cleaning agents such as alcohol, acetone, and bleach, which can damage the coating or material of the product surface. Dust in gaps can be cleaned with a soft-bristled brush. Lastly, avoid collision and heavy pressure. PVC products have limited hardness, especially those with thin walls or complex shapes. Collision or heavy pressure can easily lead to deformation and cracking. In daily use, be careful to handle gently and do not stack heavy objects randomly.
Classification maintenance techniques need to be implemented in a targeted manner. Soft PVC products (such as vinyl toys, teething toys) should avoid high-temperature environments, as high temperatures can cause the material to soften, adhere, and even release harmful substances; they should be stored away from sharp objects to prevent scratching the surface; regular inspections should be conducted to check for signs of aging and tackiness, and if any are found, they should be replaced promptly. Hard PVC products (such as decorative ornaments, storage boxes) should avoid falls and severe collisions to prevent chipping and deformation; for products with spliced or movable parts, regular inspections should be conducted to check for loose connectors, and if any screws are loose, they can be tightened in a timely manner. Movable parts can be coated with a small amount of silicone oil to maintain flexibility. Outdoor PVC products (such as decorative sculptures, display racks) should not only be protected from the sun and rain, but also regularly inspected for signs of aging and cracking on the surface. A special maintenance agent can be applied once a year to enhance weather resistance; PVC products that come into contact with water (such as bathroom accessories) should be regularly cleaned of scale to prevent scale buildup from affecting appearance and performance.