Cleaning the Print Bed¶
A clean, oil-free build surface is the number one key to achieving strong first-layer adhesion. Fingerprints, dust, and residue from previous prints can all prevent your print from sticking properly. This guide focuses on PEI (Polyetherimide) surfaces, which are common on printers of this type.
Regular Cleaning (After every few prints)¶
For routine cleaning, Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is your best friend.
- Ensure the bed is cool.
- Apply a small amount of IPA (90% or higher concentration is best) to a clean, lint-free cloth.
- Wipe the entire PEI surface thoroughly to remove any dust or oils.
Deep Cleaning (When adhesion degrades)¶
Over time, oils and residues can build up that IPA alone won't remove. A deep clean with soap and water can work wonders.
- Remove the flexible steel sheet from the magnetic base.
- Take it to a sink and wash it with warm water and a basic dish soap (one that does not contain lotions or oils).
- Gently scrub the surface with the soft side of a sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water, ensuring no soap residue remains.
- Dry completely with a clean paper towel. Try not to touch the print surface with your bare hands afterwards.
Restoring the Surface (Last Resort)¶
If your PEI sheet is old, shiny, and has lost its grip even after a deep clean, you can restore its surface texture.
Proceed with Caution
This process is abrasive and should only be done when necessary, as it does remove a microscopic layer of the PEI.
- Take the clean, dry PEI sheet.
- Very gently scuff the entire surface in a light, circular motion using #0000 superfine steel wool or a high-grit wet-or-dry sandpaper (600+ grit).
- The goal is not to remove material, but simply to restore a fine, matte texture to the surface.
- After scuffing, clean the plate thoroughly with IPA one last time to remove any fine dust particles.