Keeping your stamps clean is the single best thing you can do to extend their life and maintain crisp, professional impressions. Ink buildup on the stamp plate causes smearing, bleeding and eventually permanent staining of the rubber. Here is how to clean every type of stamp correctly.
How to Clean a Self-Inking Stamp
Self-inking stamps are the easiest to maintain because the ink pad is separate from the stamp plate. The rubber die itself rarely needs deep cleaning unless you change ink colors or notice buildup.
- Press the stamp several times on a scrap piece of paper to transfer excess ink from the die.
- Dampen a paper towel with water or a small amount of stamp cleaner.
- Gently wipe the rubber die in one direction — do not scrub, as this can damage fine detail.
- Press on a dry paper towel to remove any remaining moisture.
- Allow to air dry before using again.
Browse our range of self-inking stamps — all made with precision-cut rubber dies designed for easy cleaning.
How to Clean a Wood Handle Stamp
Wood handle stamps need a little more care because water can warp the wooden block if it soaks in. Always clean the rubber plate only — never submerge the wood handle.
- Use a stamp cleaning pad or a damp paper towel with stamp cleaner solution.
- Press the stamp plate gently onto the cleaning pad and rock slightly to work the solution into the ink.
- Wipe with a dry cloth and repeat until the impression on a test paper is clean.
- Store handle-up to prevent moisture from sitting on the rubber.
Our wood handle stamps use durable hardwood that stays strong for years with proper care.
How to Clean an Embosser
Embossers do not use ink, so they rarely need cleaning. However, paper dust and debris can build up in the die over time and soften the impression.
- Use a soft, dry brush (an old toothbrush works well) to gently remove paper dust from between the die elements.
- For stubborn residue, barely dampen the brush with water and work carefully — do not get moisture into the mechanism.
- Test on scrap paper after cleaning to confirm the impression is sharp.
Explore our custom embossers — elegant raised impressions that need minimal maintenance.
What to Use (and What to Avoid)
Safe cleaning options:
- Commercial stamp cleaner solution
- Baby wipes (unscented, alcohol-free)
- Damp paper towels
- Stamp scrubber pads
Avoid these:
- Alcohol-based cleaners — they dry out and crack rubber
- Acetone or nail polish remover — dissolves rubber
- Hot water — can warp wood and degrade adhesive
- Abrasive cloths or scouring pads — scratch the die surface
How Often Should You Clean Your Stamps?
For self-inking stamps used daily, a quick wipe every 2 to 4 weeks keeps impressions sharp. For wood handle stamps, clean immediately after each use — dried ink is much harder to remove than fresh ink. Embossers only need cleaning when you notice the impression softening.
Storing Your Stamps Correctly
Clean storage is as important as cleaning itself. Store stamps away from direct sunlight, which fades and cracks rubber over time. Keep self-inking stamps upright or face-down to keep the pad moist. Wood handle stamps should be stored horizontally, plate-side down on a clean surface.