Smithers Neon signs aren’t just lights — they’re statements. Whether it’s bold, brash, sassy, or stylish, your neon deserves to shine bright every night. But just like any premium décor piece, it needs the right care to stay in top form.
From our design studio in Shoreditch to your home or business, here’s how to look after your neon sign and keep the glow going strong.
1. Know What You’ve Got — LED vs. Glass Neon
At Smithers, we deal in LED neon signs — built with flexible silicone tubes, mounted on durable acrylic, and powered by USB or mains. Why?
They’re:
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Cool to the touch
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Long-lasting (20,000+ hours)
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Energy efficient
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And most importantly — safe for homes, bedrooms, and commercial spaces
Old-school glass neon? That’s vintage, but it’s fragile, gas-filled neon, and high voltage. Ours? Same look, zero fuss.
2. Dust It — Gently But Regularly
LED neon signs attract dust like a disco ball on a Saturday night.
Here’s how to clean yours:
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Unplug first (always)
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Use a microfibre cloth or feather duster
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For stubborn marks, use a damp cloth with plain water only — no sprays, no chemicals
Pro tip: Don’t use glass cleaner or bleach. It can damage the tubes or the acrylic base.
3. Hang It Right – No Bodge Jobs Allowed
Most of our signs come with pre-drilled holes — use them. If you’re using command strips or hooks, make sure they’re weight-rated.
Quick hanging tips:
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Keep it away from direct sunlight
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Avoid damp areas unless you’ve got a waterproof model
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Leave a little breathing space between the wall and wires
Want inspo? Check out how our customers are hanging theirs in the Neon Lights Collection.
4. Power Up Properly
Your Smithers neon sign comes with either USB or mains plug. Treat it well:
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Use the switch, not just yank the plug out
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Don’t overload extension sockets
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If you’re not using it — turn it off, but no need to unplug every time
LED neon uses very little power — safe to leave on for hours.
5. Got a Flicker? Here’s What to Check
It’s rare, but flickering can happen. If so:
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Check the USB or plug connection
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Make sure the power source is stable
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Try a different plug — if it still flickers, drop us a message
We’ve tested every single neon sign. If there’s ever an issue, we’re here to sort it.
6. Store It Like a Pro (If You Ever Take It Down)
Taking it down for a move or a re-style?
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Wrap the sign in bubble wrap
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Label the cable ends
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Store flat, not upright
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Keep it in a dry, cool place
This stops warping and wire strain — especially for custom signs with longer tubing.
We know bars. We know neon. You need both. Explore the full guide.
🔥 Final Tip: Keep It Fresh
Every now and then, take a step back.
Does the wall still do it justice?
Does the room need a second sign (we’re not judging)?
Check out our full Neon Signs range for fresh inspiration — from pink bedroom accessories to custom LED names.
💬 Neon Sign Cleaning & Care FAQs
• How do I clean a LED neon sign safely?
Unplug it first. Use a soft microfibre cloth or feather duster to wipe away dust. For marks, lightly dampen the cloth with plain water — never use sprays, bleach, or glass cleaners.
• Can you clean neon signs with household cleaning products?
No. Avoid harsh chemicals, window sprays, or abrasive cloths. These can damage the silicone tubing or acrylic backing, especially on LED neon signs.
• How often should I clean my neon sign?
Depends on the space. In homes, a light dust every couple of weeks is fine. In commercial spaces like bars or salons, once a week keeps it fresh and glowing.
• Can I leave a neon sign on all day and night?
Yes, if it’s LED. LED neon signs are built for long use and won’t overheat. Still, switching them off when not needed helps extend their lifespan and lowers energy use.
• What should I do if my neon sign starts flickering?
Check your power source. Try another plug, inspect the cable for damage, and make sure the adapter is seated properly. If the issue continues, contact the seller or manufacturer.
• Are neon signs waterproof?
Only if they’re built for outdoor use. Indoor neon signs should never be installed in damp environments like bathrooms or garden walls unless they’re IP-rated for moisture.
• How should I store a neon sign if I take it down?
Wrap it in bubble wrap, label the cable ends, and store it flat in a dry, cool place. Avoid stacking other items on top of it to prevent damage to the tubes or wiring.
• Do neon signs need regular maintenance?
Not really. Aside from cleaning and safe installation, LED neon signs are low-maintenance. Check power connections now and then, and keep dust away for optimal brightness.
• Can neon signs damage paint or walls?
Not if installed correctly. Use pre-drilled holes or suitable wall-safe fixings. Avoid tape that leaves residue, and give wires space to breathe to avoid rubbing.
• Do you ship neon signs to the U.S. with plug compatibility?
Yes. Many retailers now offer LED neon signs with U.S.-compatible plugs and safe shipping options. Always confirm plug type and voltage before ordering for use in the USA.
• What’s the best way to clean a neon sign without damaging it?
The best method is to unplug the sign first, then gently wipe with a microfibre cloth. For stubborn marks, use a cloth dampened with plain water — no sprays or chemicals. This keeps high-quality neon signs looking sharp without risk.
• Do high-quality neon signs need regular maintenance?
Not much. The best LED neon signs are made to be low-maintenance. Just dust regularly, check connections occasionally, and keep it plugged into a clean power source. That’s all it takes to keep them glowing strong for years.