Keep your MDF panels looking new: Care and maintenance tips

You’ve bought the panels, you’ve installed them, and you’re probably enjoying the fruits of your labour. Once you've soaked up that new-panel glow, it’s time to think about how to keep them looking flawless for the long haul.

Even in low-traffic areas, panels can gather dust, suffer the occasional dent, or pick up a stain or two, that’s just part of everyday life!

The good news is that there are plenty of simple ways to either mitigate the damage or fix small issues in your MDF panels if they arise.

Tips for maintaining the quality of your panels

The easiest way to keep your panels looking brand new is to care for them from day one. Cleaning and Preventive maintenance always beats long-term repair. Here’s how to stay on top of common issues:

1. Keep on top of the dust: It sounds obvious, but regular dusting makes a huge difference. Over time, dust build-up can dull the finish and cause fine scratches. Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe the panels and remove any residue.

2. Deal with annoying smudges quickly: Sometimes accidents happen, like a drink spill, and your panels might get caught in the crossfire. But don’t panic. Most smudges can be remedied with some soapy water and a cloth. Gently wipe away the mark, then dry the surface with a clean cloth to avoid water marks.

3. Tackle stronger stains carefully: For tougher stains, you could try a mild vinegar solution or a gentle baking soda paste. Always check what type of paint or finish your panels have before using any cleaning agent, stronger solutions may not suit every surface. Equally, lower-quality paints or dyes may be more sensitive to cleaning solutions, which could affect the colour depth or finish. 

And remember: if the paint layer does get damaged, a fresh coat can always bring your panels back to life.

What if the panel gets damaged?

Sometimes the issue goes beyond surface level, a chip, dent, or deep scratch can expose the wood beneath the paint. It’s best to address this early before it worsens.

If the damage is minor, lightly sand the affected area to smooth out any rough edges or splinters, then touch up with paint. Even if it’s not completely flawless, this can significantly improve the appearance.

For more severe damage, it’s often best to call in a professional. Attempting a complex repair yourself could cause further harm if you’re unsure about the materials or methods.

Damaging your panels is frustrating, especially when accidentally done in a careless moment. To avoid this, try to be mindful when moving furniture or large objects near your panels, using corner protectors or sliders can help avoid accidental knocks and scratches.

What to avoid when cleaning your panels

It’s easy to panic when we find or cause damage in our homes. Sometimes this can lead us to rush and try to fix something, but the risk is that we actually make the problem worse. 

So, take a deep breath, don’t panic, and try to avoid our list below. 

Here are our do-nots: 

• Don’t use abrasive tools like steel wool or rough sponges.
• Always dry your panels after cleaning to prevent water damage or swelling.
• Don’t ignore the type or quality of paint used, durable finishes make maintenance much easier.
• Avoid scrubbing too hard, as it can cause discolouration or remove paint.
• Skip harsh chemical cleaners; gentle solutions are always safer.

Following the above suggestions can make sure you don’t have a bigger problem on your hands while trying to fix the first one. 

Some panels are made differently

When it comes to panel maintenance, quality truly matters. Well-crafted panels are easier to clean and longer-lasting; this is essential in areas that have higher traffic in your home! But you want panels that look incredible, as well as save you time and effort in the long-term upkeep. 

At Panels By Sofia, we’re proud to offer UK-made panels that blend sustainability, style, and effortless care, so you can enjoy beautiful walls that last.

Ready to refresh your space? Explore our collection of wall panels and find designs that bring lasting beauty to every room.