How to Clean and Care for Your Photo Slate Keepsake

Use a soft dry cloth or a microfiber duster. The printed surface is smooth and durable, so light dusting is all it takes for daily maintenance. Avoid paper towels on the printed area because they can leave tiny scratches over time.

Dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild hand soap or dish soap. Wipe gently across the surface. Do not scrub hard. Dry immediately with a clean soft cloth. Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, glass cleaners, or anything with ammonia or bleach. These chemicals break down the coating over time and can cause fading or discoloration.

The rough chiseled edges are the raw part of the slate and they are supposed to look unfinished. That is the character of natural stone. Dust settles in the crevices more easily than on the flat print area. Use a soft brush like a clean paintbrush or makeup brush to gently sweep out the edges. If something sticky gets on the edges, use a damp cloth with mild soap and pat carefully instead of rubbing.

Always pick it up with both hands. Slate is heavy and dense, but it will thank you for the support, and so will the surface it sits on. A little care in how you pick it up keeps it safe on a mantel or shelf for decades.

Keep your slate in a spot where it can be admired without being knocked around. The included stand holds it steady on desks, shelves, and mantels. Avoid direct prolonged sun for best color life over many years, and remember — stone is naturally at home outside and in damp spaces, so a covered porch or garden spot is fine too.