Trophies hold special memories and achievements, so it’s only natural to want to keep them looking their best. Over time, they can get scratched, lose shine, or have faded engravings. Whether your trophy is made of metal, glass, or plastic, you can easily restore it with a few simple steps. Here’s a complete guide on how to clean, repair, and re-engrave your trophies to make them look as good as new.
1. Cleaning and Basic Repairs
Start by cleaning your trophy gently. Use a soft microfiber cloth with mild soap and water to remove dust, smudges, and dirt. Avoid using rough materials like tissue paper because they can leave fibers or scratches.
If your trophy has small, detailed parts, use a cotton swab or a soft brush to reach tight spaces. For metal trophies, apply a small amount of metal polish (like brass or silver cleaner to restore shine) but avoid using metal polish or heat-based buffing compounds on plastic trophies. Instead, use a plastic-safe cleaner or car polish. Only use metal polish on uncoated metal trophies. Many modern trophies have a clear lacquer coating that can be damaged by polish.
If you notice light scratches on metal plates, use a non-abrasive metal cleaner. Deep scratches may require replacing the plate entirely rather than attempting filler.
2. Fixing Broken or Loose Parts
Trophies often have fragile parts like handles, figures, or nameplates that can loosen or break. For small cracks or detached pieces, use a strong adhesive or epoxy glue made for metal, glass, or plastic. Hold the parts together until the glue sets completely, and avoid moving them while drying. Avoid using super glue near clear acrylic — it can cause fogging or white residue.
If your trophy has serious structural damage or multiple broken sections, it’s best to take it to a professional trophy repair service. They have the tools and materials to fix it without causing further damage.
3. Re-Engraving: When and How to Do It
With time, engraved text or logos on trophies may fade or become hard to read. If the engraved plate is only slightly dull, you can clean it gently with a soft cloth or mild polish.
However, if the engraving is too worn or scratched, professional re-engraving is the best option. Experts can remove the old text and re-engrave the same plate or create a new one that matches the original design. Modern laser engraving ensures sharp, clear, and long-lasting results.
How To Keep Your Trophies Looking New
Once your trophy is clean and repaired, a few good habits can keep it looking great for years:
- Keep trophies away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent fading or rust.
- Dust them regularly using a soft, dry cloth.
- For trophies prone to humidity damage, store silica gel packets nearby to absorb moisture.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners that can wear away finishes over time.
Final Thoughts
At AAA Trophy & Engraving, we specialize in restoring and re-engraving trophies of all types, from metal cups to acrylic awards. Call us at (713) 464-4766 to bring your cherished award back to life.