How to Keep Your Acrylic Glove Box Surface Clean
Acrylic is a light-weight, durable, and cost-effective plastic used in the construction of controlled atmosphere glove boxes. As part of every laboratory cleaning and disinfecting checklist should include cleaning the outside surface of your acrylic glove box. Cleaning the surface helps prevent the acrylic from becoming cloudy and collecting dust.
Before you pull out your Windex bottle it is important to know that acrylic can be damaged by certain household cleaners. To help make the cleaning process simple, here are some tips to properly clean an acrylic glove box.
Avoid the Following
- Avoid using ammonia based products like Windex or other home cleaners. The chemicals found in these household cleaners contain harmful chemicals that will damage the acrylic material.
- Don’t use paper towels as they can cause scratches.
- Never apply to much pressure when cleaning or drying the glove box.
Dirt and Dust
Prior to cleaning, start by blowing dirt and dust off the surface of the glove box. A canned air cleaner can safely be used to remove any dirt from the surface. A microfiber cloth with water can also be used, but be careful not to apply too much pressure as this action can damage the acrylic. If using the water method, we recommend a blotting action.
Easy Clean
Using a microfiber cloth and soapy water is the easiest and safest method for cleaning an acrylic surface. Gently blot the surface of the glove box with the wet cloth. Using a dry microfiber cloth go back over the surface in the same blotting action to dry.
Non-Abrasive Cleaners
For tougher dirt build up, a non-abrasive cleaner can be used. Good non-abrasive cleaners include castile soap and baby shampoo. Start by mixing equal parts of non-abrasive cleaner and water, dip your microfiber cloth in the solution and gently blot the acrylic surface clean. Finish by blot drying the surface to prevent water spots.
Specialized Cleaner
If soapy water or a non-abrasive cleaner is not enough to remove dirt from your glove box, there are a few cleaners formulated specifically to clean and protect acrylic material. Brillianize is safe to use on acrylic, Lexan®, Plexiglas®, Acrylite®, and all other plastic surfaces.
Reduce the Attraction of Dirt
Acrylic plastic is a natural conductor of electricity, to combat this effect anti-static cleaners can be used. There are several anti-static cleaners formulated specifically to neutralize static. Staticide® ESD Safety Shield, Novus, and ACRIFIX® are a few commercially available products.
