A wood map does not ask for much. A dust now and then, a sensible spot on the wall, and it will look the way it did the day you hung it. Here is everything worth knowing, in the order you are likely to need it.
Dusting
Every few weeks, wipe the frame and the front with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. That is usually all it takes.
Cleaning the acrylic front (laser-engraved maps)
The laser-engraved maps have an acrylic front. Acrylic is tougher than glass in some ways and softer in others, so treat it gently:
- Use a clean microfiber cloth, lightly dampened with water or a drop of mild soap.
- Skip ammonia-based glass cleaners. Ammonia can cloud acrylic over time.
- Skip paper towels too. They can leave fine scratches.
- Wipe in straight lines rather than circles, and dry with a second cloth.
Dusting a UV-printed map
The UV-printed maps have nothing over the wood, which is part of their charm. Dust them with a soft, dry brush or a dry microfiber cloth, following the contours. Keep liquids and cleaners off the printed surface.
Light
Bright, indirect light shows off the layers best. Strong direct sun, day after day, can slowly fade wood and stain, the same way it fades upholstery. If a wall gets hard afternoon sun, a sheer curtain or a different wall will keep the colors true.
Light from the side makes every layer throw a small shadow. Light from the window, all afternoon, slowly fades them. Aim for the first.
Heat and humidity
Wood moves with heat and moisture, so give it a stable spot. Avoid steamy bathrooms and the wall right above a heating vent or radiator. Over a fireplace is fine with a mantel shelf between the fire and the frame.
Hanging
- Use hardware rated for the weight of the frame, and anchors if you are not hitting a stud.
- For wide frames, two hooks keep it level and stop it from drifting crooked.
- Hang the center about 57 to 60 inches from the floor, or 8 to 10 inches above furniture.
Tide clocks
The tide and time clocks take an AA battery. After you change it, reset the tide hand at the next local high tide and it will keep the rhythm from there.
Serving trays
Wipe them with a damp cloth and dry them right away. Do not soak them or put them in the dishwasher, and keep hot pans off the surface.
Questions about a specific piece? The product page has the details for each map, clock and tray, and the shop is happy to help with anything else.
Keep reading: Where to Hang a Lake Map: 6 Spots That Work · Laser-Engraved or UV-Printed? · What Size Lake Map Should You Get?