Quick answer

Clean acrylic stands with a soft microfiber cloth and lukewarm water with a drop of mild dish soap, then dry immediately with a clean cloth. For storage, keep stands flat in a rigid box with soft separators, away from sunlight and heat, to prevent scratches, warping, and yellowing.

Why acrylic needs a different routine than figures

Acrylic stands are made from a clear plastic that is more prone to scratching and clouding than PVC figures. Dust that sits on the surface can act like sandpaper when you wipe it, and alcohol-based cleaners can leave fine cracks over time. A gentle, consistent routine protects the printed artwork and keeps the clear edges looking sharp.

Because acrylic is lightweight, it also tips easily. Handle the base and edges rather than the printed face, and always support the stand with two hands when moving it.

What you need before you start

Gather a soft microfiber cloth, a second clean cloth for drying, lukewarm water, and a mild dish soap with no added moisturizers or citrus oils. Avoid paper towels, tissues, and rough sponges, which can leave micro-scratches. If you use compressed air, keep the nozzle several inches away and use short bursts.

For hard-to-reach areas around the base, a soft makeup brush or a clean, dry paintbrush works better than a cloth.

How to handle stands with multiple pieces

Some stands, like the My Hero Academia 10th Anniversary Hawks Acrylic Stand, include a main piece and a smaller additional piece. Remove the pieces from the base before cleaning so you can reach the edges and the slot without bending anything. Keep small parts in a shallow dish so they do not roll away.

If a piece feels tight in the base, do not force it. A slight wiggle while supporting the base is usually enough; forcing can crack the slot.

Drying and display placement

After rinsing, shake off excess water and dry immediately with a clean microfiber cloth. Letting acrylic air-dry can leave water spots that are harder to remove later. Once dry, place the stand on a stable shelf away from direct sun and heat sources like lamps or radiators.

If you display near a window, rotate the stand every few weeks so one side does not fade unevenly. Keep stands out of high-traffic areas where they can be knocked over.

Step-by-step acrylic stand care routine

  1. Dust first with a dry soft cloth: Before any water touches the stand, wipe the surface gently with a clean microfiber cloth to remove loose dust and grit. Work from top to bottom so debris falls away. Checkpoint: if the cloth picks up visible grit, shake it outside before continuing.
  2. Wash with lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap: Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add one small drop of mild dish soap. Dip the cloth, wring it out, and wipe the stand without soaking the printed area. Do not use hot water, alcohol, or glass cleaner. Common mistake: using paper towels or rough sponges, which leave fine scratches.
  3. Rinse and dry immediately: Hold the stand under a gentle stream of lukewarm water to remove soap residue, then pat dry with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Make sure the base slot and edges are completely dry before reassembling. Checkpoint: no water spots or droplets remain on the surface.
  4. Store flat and separated when not displayed: Place stands flat in a rigid box lined with a soft cloth or acid-free tissue. Put a piece of soft paper between stacked stands so they do not rub together. Keep the box out of sunlight and away from heat. Common mistake: storing stands upright or loose in a drawer where they can slide and scratch.
  5. Check monthly for yellowing or clouding: Inspect the edges and base for any change in clarity. If you notice early yellowing, move the stand away from direct sun and clean it with the same mild soap routine. Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals, which can worsen the problem. Next step: if yellowing is already advanced, keep the stand out of sunlight to slow further change.

Product facts that affect care