Thank you for choosing a Layera piece! Depending on what you’ve ordered, your item is printed in either PLA or PETG – both sturdy, plant-based 3D printing plastics, but each with their own care needs. Here’s how to look after each, plus a note on our LED lamps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most of our toys are printed in PLA (polylactic acid) – our dragons, minis, and animals are all PLA. Our lamps are also printed in PLA, since we use USB-powered LED lights in them, though a number of our lamp designs are now available in PETG too. Planters are a mix of both materials, so check the individual listing if you’re not sure which one you have. We’re also exploring a PETG version of our toys so they’ll hold up to play in the pool or bath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PLA starts to soften at around 50-60\u00b0C, so keep pieces out of direct sunlight, off a sunny windowsill, out of parked cars, and away from heaters, stoves, or other heat sources. Softened PLA can warp or lose its shape permanently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A quick wipe-down or light splash is fine, but PLA prints aren’t dishwasher safe and shouldn’t be soaked or submerged, especially pieces with any electronic components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Extended exposure to direct sunlight or UV light can cause colours to fade or yellow over time. Where possible, display decorative pieces out of direct sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PLA is strong but more brittle than injection-moulded plastic. Avoid dropping pieces onto hard surfaces or applying sudden pressure to thin or detailed parts, and store them somewhere they won’t be knocked or crushed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of our lamps and some of our planters are printed in PETG rather than PLA. It’s a tougher, more heat- and water-resistant plastic, so the care is a little different from PLA:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PETG handles heat much better than PLA, tolerating temperatures up to around 70-80\u00b0C before softening. It copes far better on a sunny windowsill or in a warm room, though direct, prolonged heat is still best avoided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PETG is more water-resistant than PLA and can handle a proper wash, including light dishwasher use – though we’d suggest skipping the heated-dry cycle, as high heat can still cause warping. Mild soap and water is all you need for everyday cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PETG resists UV fading better than PLA, but extended direct sunlight will still cause gradual yellowing over time, so out-of-direct-sun display is still best where possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PETG has more flex and impact resistance than PLA, so it’s less likely to crack or shatter if dropped. Its surface is a little softer, though, so keep it away from abrasive scrubbers to avoid fine scratches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether your lamp is printed in PLA or PETG, keep the cord and any electrical components dry at all times, switch the lamp off when not in use, and make sure it has enough airflow around it so heat doesn’t build up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have any questions about caring for your piece, feel free to get in touch with us – we’re always happy to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n