Product care

At Noctura3D, we offer products manufactured using 3D printing technology from high-quality materials such as PLA and PETG . To ensure you enjoy your products for a long time, we would like to provide you with some important tips on how to care for and properly handle these materials.

Care instructions for PLA products

PLA (polylactic acid) is a biodegradable plastic characterized by its easy handling and environmentally friendly properties. Nevertheless, PLA also requires some attention to maximize the product's lifespan:

  • Storage:
     PLA is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Therefore, store your PLA products in a cool, dry place.
  • Cleaning:
    Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. For stubborn stains, a slightly damp wipe with water may suffice. Avoid harsh chemicals, as these could damage the surface.
  • Temperature resistance:
    PLA can soften at higher temperatures (above 60°C). Be careful not to place your PLA products in direct sunlight or near hot surfaces.

Care instructions for PETG products

PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) is an extremely stable, durable plastic characterized by its high resistance to moisture and temperatures. However, PETG also requires some care instructions:

  • Storage:
    Although PETG is less susceptible to moisture than PLA, it is still recommended that you do not store your products in constant contact with water.
  • Cleaning:
    PETG products are best cleaned with warm water and a soft cloth. Again, avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive materials to prevent scratches or discoloration.
  • Temperature resistance:
    PETG is more heat-resistant than PLA, but even this material should not be exposed to high temperatures (over 70 °C) for long periods. PETG may discolor or lose its shape, especially in direct sunlight.

Special feature: Our PlantTags made of PETG in the garden

Our PlantTags are made of PETG and are specifically designed for outdoor use. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure they stay beautiful and durable for a long time:

  • UV exposure:
    PETG is more robust than PLA, but can become brittle or fade in color if exposed to sunlight for extended periods - especially light colors.
  • Weather:
    Rain, soil and moisture do not affect PETG - perfect for the garden.
  • Care tip:
     After the gardening season, you can clean our PlantTags and store them in a dry place (e.g. garden shed or cellar) during the winter to further increase their lifespan.

General care instructions for all 3D printed products

Regardless of the material used, there are some general tips for caring for your Noctura3D products:

  • Avoid mechanical stress:
    Even though the products are robust, excessive shock, pressure, or dropping the items can cause damage. Handle your products with care.
  • Protection against UV radiation:
    Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can affect the colors and material properties of your products. Ideally, store the products in a location away from direct sunlight.
  • No contact with harsh chemicals:
    Harsh cleaning agents or solvents can damage the structure and appearance of 3D-printed parts. Therefore, use mild cleaning methods.

Conclusion

With proper care, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your Noctura3D products and fully utilize the best properties of PLA and PETG. We hope these tips help you keep your products in top condition and enjoy your purchase for a long time. If you have any questions about the care or handling of our products, we are always happy to help.

Thank you for choosing Noctura3D - we hope you enjoy your products!