Summer Magnetic Sign Care & Storage Tips

Summer heat, humidity, rain, road grime, and direct sunlight can all affect the performance and appearance of magnetic vehicle signs. While custom magnetic signs are one of the most affordable and effective ways to advertise your business, they do require simple routine care to keep them looking professional and working properly.

The good news is that a few easy cleaning and storage habits can help extend the life of your magnets, protect your vehicle’s finish, and prevent common issues like curling, moisture buildup, dirt trapped behind the magnet, and poor magnetic contact.

How to Clean Magnetic Signs

1. Remove the magnetic sign from the vehicle.
2. Wipe the back of the magnet with a clean, damp cloth.
3. Wipe the vehicle surface where the magnet was installed.
4. Allow both surfaces to dry completely.
5. Reinstall the magnet on a clean, smooth, flat metal surface.

Summer Magnetic Sign Storage

Vehicle cabins and trunks can become extremely hot during summer weather. When magnetic signs are left inside a hot car, truck, van, or trunk, they can warp, curl, or lose their flat shape.

• Store magnetic signs indoors at room temperature.
• Store them flat whenever possible.
• Do not fold, crease, or sharply bend magnetic signs.
• Do not leave unused magnets inside a hot vehicle.
• Keep magnets away from direct sunlight when not in use.

Remove Magnetic Signs Before Washing Your Vehicle

Always remove magnetic signs before entering a car wash or washing your vehicle. Water, soap, brushes, and high-pressure sprayers can shift the magnet, trap moisture underneath it, or damage the sign.

Common Magnetic Sign Problems and Solutions

• Curling corners: Usually caused by heat or improper storage. Store magnets flat indoors.
• Dirt behind the magnet: Remove the magnet, clean both surfaces, dry completely, and reinstall.
• Magnet will not stick: The vehicle surface may be aluminum, fiberglass, plastic, or heavily curved.
• Moisture buildup: Remove and dry the magnet and vehicle surface completely.

Will Magnetic Signs Work on My Vehicle?

Magnetic signs only work on smooth, flat steel surfaces. They will not properly stick to aluminum, fiberglass, plastic, heavily curved panels, or areas with body filler.

Before ordering or installing magnetic signs, test your vehicle surface with a household refrigerator magnet. If the magnet sticks firmly, a vehicle magnet should work on that area.

You can also read our guide: How do I know if magnets will work on my vehicle?

Weekly Magnetic Sign Maintenance Checklist

• Remove magnetic signs from the vehicle.
• Clean the back of each magnet.
• Clean the vehicle surface underneath.
• Allow both surfaces to dry completely.
• Inspect corners and edges for curling.
• Reinstall only on a clean, dry, smooth steel surface.
• Store unused magnets flat indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Magnetic Sign Care

Can magnetic signs damage vehicle paint?

When used properly, magnetic signs should not damage automotive paint. However, dirt, moisture, and debris trapped between the magnet and vehicle surface can cause staining or abrasion over time.

Can I leave magnetic signs on my vehicle all summer?

Yes, but they should be removed and cleaned regularly. Summer heat and humidity make it especially important to check for moisture, dirt, and full magnetic contact.

Why are my magnetic signs curling?

Curling is usually caused by heat exposure or improper storage. Magnetic signs should be stored flat, indoors, and away from direct sunlight when not in use.

Can magnetic signs go through a car wash?

No. Always remove magnetic signs before entering a car wash or washing your vehicle.

What is the best way to store magnetic signs?

The best way to store magnetic signs is flat, indoors, at room temperature. Avoid folding, creasing, rolling tightly, or leaving them inside a hot vehicle.

Need Replacement Magnetic Signs?

If your magnets have warped, curled, or stopped performing because they were left in a hot vehicle or were not cleaned regularly, please contact our customer service department at 812-936-7446. Let us know what happened and we will be happy to help with a reorder discount code.

Need new signs for your business? Browse our custom magnetic signs, blank magnetic signs, and other vehicle sign options.