No one wants to spend money to buy an item that won't last long. Luckily, Handreamy’s wooden lake maps are made to sustain for years. However, it’s best that you - your customers to understand how to preserve the quality of the piece. In this post, we’ll review everything you need to know about caring for your Handreamy wooden lake map products. 

Understand Plywood

For the wooden lake map product line, Handreamy chose plywood. Plywood is an engineered wood product made by gluing together thin layers, or “plies,” of wood veneer. The reasons why we chose plywood are:

For more details on this topic, check out our article on plywood’s characteristics and why we choose to use it.

General Care Tips for Plywood Lake Map

These are the basic steps that you can do to maintain the lake map’s aesthetic look:

Dusting

The first step in maintaining your plywood lake map is regular dusting. Dust can accumulate on the surface and in the crevices of the design, dulling its appearance. Here’s how to do it:

• Use a Soft Cloth: A soft, dry cloth or a feather duster is perfect for removing dust without scratching the surface.
• Avoid Harsh Materials: Steer clear of rough cloths or abrasive materials that could damage the finish.

Cleaning

Sometimes, your wooden lake map might need more than just dusting, especially if it’s exposed to cooking fumes or smoke. Here’s how to clean it safely:

• Mild Soap Solution: Mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently wipe the surface.
• Dry Immediately: Dry the map immediately with a clean, dry cloth to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood and causing warping or damage.
• Avoid Excessive Water: Never soak the wood or use excessive water. Too much can damage the layers of plywood.

Polishing

Polishing your plywood map can help maintain its luster and protect the surface. Follow these rules: 

• Choose the Right Polish: Use a high-quality wood polish suitable for the finish of your map. If it’s stained, ensure the polish is compatible with stained wood.
• Apply Sparingly: Apply a small amount of polish to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the surface in a circular motion. Too much polish can build up and create a sticky residue.
• Buff to Shine: After polishing, buff the surface to a beautiful shine with a clean, dry cloth.

Protect from Sunlight

Direct sunlight can cause the colors of your plywood lake map to fade over time. Do this to protect it:

• Location Matters: Hang your map in a spot that doesn’t get direct sunlight. If that’s not possible, consider using UV-protective glass or a UV-blocking film on your windows.
• Rotate Occasionally: If your map is in a sunny spot, rotating it occasionally can help even out any potential fading.

Long-term Preservation for Plywood Products 

In the long run, you should Pay attention to these things to preserve your wood lake map for the years to come: 

Handle with Care

While our plywood maps are durable, they still need to be handled with care to avoid damage:

• Use Both Hands: When moving your map, always use both hands to support it evenly and avoid stressing any one part.
• Secure Mounting: Make sure your map is securely mounted on the wall using appropriate hardware. Check the mounts occasionally to ensure they remain secure.

Regular Inspections

Perform regular inspections to catch any potential issues early:

• Check for Damage: Look for signs of warping, cracks, or separation of the plies. If you notice any problems, address them promptly.
• Touch-up Scratches: If your map gets scratched, use a wood touch-up marker or crayon that matches the finish to cover the blemish.

Control Humidity

Plywood can handle humidity better than other materials. However, we should always pay attention to the humid level to keep the map in the best condition:

• Stable Environment: Keep your home’s humidity levels stable. A humidifier or dehumidifier can help maintain an even level, especially in areas with extreme seasonal changes.
• Avoid Damp Areas: Don’t hang your map in areas prone to high humidity, like bathrooms or basements.

A Handreamy wooden lake map is not just a decor piece; it represents places and memories you cherish. By taking care of it properly, you can ensure it remains a beautiful part of your home for years.

Conclusion

Caring for your Handreamy wooden lake map made from plywood is easy when you know the right steps. From regular dusting and cleaning to protecting it from sunlight and humidity, these simple tips will help preserve its beauty. 

We hope your wooden lake map brings you joy and reminds you of your favorite places daily. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance. Visit our website for more wooden handcrafted products!