How to Clean and Look After Your Number Plates

A dirty number plate isn't just ugly. If it can't be read easily, you could be fined. Here's how to keep your plates clean and looking new.

The basics

• Use warm water and a mild car shampoo.
• Use a soft microfibre cloth or sponge.
• Rinse well and dry with a clean microfibre towel.

What to avoid

• Strong solvents like thinners or acetone, which can damage acrylic and gel.
• Abrasive pads or brushes, which scratch the surface.
• Jet washing up close. Keep the pressure washer nozzle at least 30cm away, especially around the raised characters on 3D gel and 4D plates.

Extra care for 3D gel and 4D plates

• Use a soft detailing brush to clean around the edges of raised characters.
• A quick wipe with a car-safe quick detailer keeps gel looking glossy.
• In winter, rinse off road salt regularly. It's harsh on everything.

When to replace them

Replace your plates if they're:

• Cracked or chipped
• Faded so the colours look washed out
• Peeling or delaminating
• Hard to read from a distance

A fresh set of premium plates is quick and easy to order. Design a new set and we'll dispatch the same day if you order before 2pm on a working day.