Guide: Cleaning and Maintaining Plastic Cards for Durability

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Welcome to the ultimate guide for cleaning and maintaining your plastic cards, brought to you by the experts at Plastic Card ID . In the bustling world of business and commerce, a plastic card is more than just a piece of plastic-it's a symbol of your brand. That's why keeping your cards in tip-top shape is crucial. Let's dive into some of the best practices to ensure your cards stay sharp, durable, and continue to serve as the flawless representatives of your enterprise.

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Plastic cards, whether they're membership cards, gift cards, or loyalty cards, get handled by numerous people every day, which means they can quickly accumulate dirt, oils, and bacteria. Regular cleaning is essential, not just for hygiene but also to maintain the card's readability and functionality. To clean your plastic cards effectively without damaging them, follow these simple steps.

Firstly, start with a gentle wipe down using a soft cloth slightly dampened with water. If your card is just mildly dusty, this might be all you need. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution, but avoid abrasive cleaners or chemicals that can erode the surface or the printing on the card. After washing, pat the card dry with a soft towel-never use a heat source to speed up the drying process, as this could warp the card.

Lastly, never immerse your plastic cards in liquid, and avoid excessive scrubbing, especially over barcodes or magnetic strips, as this can make them unreadable. Regular gentle cleaning will keep your cards looking professional and reduce the need for costly replacements. Remember, a pristine card is a reflection of a pristine brand image! For any assistance or to place a new order, don't hesitate to call us at 800.835.7919 .

The right tools are essential for card maintenance. Soft cloths and cotton swabs can be used for precise cleaning, particularly around embossed features or magnetic strips.

It's always best to avoid paper-based products, like paper towels or tissues, as these can scratch the surface of your cards.

How often should you clean your plastic cards? It depends on usage. Frequently used cards should be cleaned weekly, while less-used cards might only need a monthly clean.

The key is to incorporate card cleaning into your routine maintenance for optimal longevity.

How you store your cards can impact their need for cleaning. Always store your cards away from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and magnetic fields.

Organize cards in a dedicated cardholder or pouch to keep them clean and protected when not in use.

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Preserving the life of your plastic cards is just as important as keeping them clean. Proper card maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your cards but can also save you from incurring unnecessary costs. Here's how you can maintain your plastic cards to ensure they continue to impress with each swipe, tap, or scan.

Firstly, it's essential to handle your cards with care. Encourage cardholders to keep them in a protective sleeve or a wallet slot that doesn't expose them to scratches or bending. Sunlight and extreme temperatures can also degrade plastic cards, so advise against leaving them in cars or by windows.

For businesses that reprint cards often, consider investing in a high-quality card printer that offers protective overlays or lamination functions. These features add an extra layer of durability to your printed cards. Additionally, always check the manufacturer's guidelines for your printer to guarantee the best printing results, which in turn, contributes to the longevity of your cards. Get in touch with us at 800.835.7919 to learn about the range of card printers we offer and how they can benefit your business.

Card Handling Do's and Don"ts

Do:

  • Use a cardholder.
  • Avoid twisting the card.
  • Keep cards away from liquids.

Don"t:

  • Expose your card to extreme conditions.
  • Scratch the magnetic strip or chip.
  • Bend the card unnecessarily.

When to Replace Your Cards

Despite the best maintenance, cards do wear out. Watch for faded prints, scratches that obscure information, or chips and magnetic strips that no longer function.

Replace your cards promptly to maintain efficiency and uphold your brand standards.

Simple Recycling Tips

When it's finally time to say goodbye to your old cards, recycling can be a simple and responsible way to dispose of them.

Look for local recycling programs that accept PVC materials, but remember, due to the nature of these cards, recycling options may be limited.

At Plastic Card ID , we take pride in providing outstanding support for your plastic card needs. Cleanliness and maintenance are key to ensuring each card you hand out remains a shining example of your brand's commitment to quality. For all inquiries, or to place new orders anywhere nationwide, reach out to us at 800.835.7919 -the perfect partner for your plastic card solutions.

We hope you've found these tips helpful. And remember, whether you need to refresh your card supply, find the right printer, or seek advice on maintaining your cards, we're here to help. Your brand deserves the best representation possible, and that starts with immaculate plastic cards. Call us now at 800.835.7919 for personalized assistance tailored to your brand's unique needs. Your satisfaction is our success, and we look forward to serving you!