Acrylic, also known as plexiglass, is a durable material commonly used in display cases, retail fixtures, signage, and home décor. While it’s known for its strength and versatility, acrylic is also more prone to surface scratches than glass. Whether it’s from handling, cleaning, or everyday wear and tear, scratches can affect both the appearance and clarity of your acrylic surfaces.
The good news? Many of these imperfections can be removed or significantly reduced using the right techniques and products. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to safely and effectively remove scratches from acrylic—from light scuffs to deeper surface marks.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these materials:
- Microfiber cloths
- Mild soap and water
- Novus or similar acrylic polishing compound (e.g., Novus 1, 2, 3)
- Sandpaper (400 grit)
- Plastic polishing paste or fine polishing compound
- Water spray bottle
- Buffing wheel (optional)
Step 1: Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Before addressing scratches, make sure the acrylic surface is clean. Use mild soap and water with a soft microfiber cloth to gently remove dust and debris. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or ammonia-based cleaners, as these can further damage the acrylic.
Once cleaned, dry the surface completely with a clean cloth. This step ensures that you won’t grind dirt into the surface while polishing.
Step 2: Identify the Severity of the Scratches
Determine whether the scratches are light, moderate, or deep:
- Light scratches appear as surface-level scuffs.
- Moderate scratches are slightly deeper and catch your fingernail.
- Deep scratches require sanding to remove.'
Your approach will depend on the depth of the damage.
Step 3: Treat Light Surface Scratches with Polish
Use a plastic polish like Novus 2 or a similar fine polishing compound. Apply a small amount of polish to a clean microfiber cloth and rub it into the scratched area using a circular motion. Buff gently until the scratch fades or disappears.
Wipe clean with a fresh cloth and inspect the surface. Repeat if necessary. Finish with a coat of Novus 1 or plastic cleaner for added shine and protection.
Step 4: Use Sanding for Deeper Scratches
For deeper marks that don’t respond to polish alone, wet sanding is your best option. Start with the lowest grit necessary (usually 400) and work your way up to finer grits.
Spray water on the scratched area and sand in a consistent, straight motion. Keep the surface wet and change directions (horizontal to vertical) as you move to higher grits—ending with 1200 grit for the smoothest finish.
After sanding, use a polishing compound or paste and buff the area thoroughly to restore clarity.
Step 5: Use a Buffing Wheel for Large Areas
If you're working with larger acrylic surfaces (like display cases or acrylic panels), a buffing wheel or rotary tool with a soft polishing pad can save time and provide a more uniform finish.
Apply the polish to the surface or pad and use a low-speed setting to avoid overheating. Always keep the buffer moving to prevent uneven spots or burning.
Pro Tips for Preventing Future Scratches
- Use only microfiber or soft cotton cloths when cleaning.
- Avoid paper towels—they can scratch the surface.
- Apply a plastic cleaner or protectant regularly to preserve the finish.
- Keep acrylic objects away from abrasive surfaces or tools.
Conclusion
Removing scratches from acrylic is entirely doable with the right tools and methods. From light scuffs to deeper imperfections, you can restore your acrylic surfaces to a like-new shine with a little time and care.
Need high-quality acrylic sheets? T&T Plastic Land offers everything you need for your acrylic projects—from fabrication materials to maintenance products. Contact us today or visit our site to learn more!
