How to Clean and Care for Race Medals and Wooden Displays
Every triathlon medal represents months of dedication, early morning swims, long bike rides, challenging runs, and the unforgettable moment you crossed the finish line. Whether it was your first sprint triathlon or an Ironman 70.3, those medals deserve more than sitting in a drawer collecting dust.
Over time, sweat, humidity, fingerprints, and everyday exposure can leave medals looking dull. Fortunately, cleaning and preserving your race medals is simple—and pairing them with a personalized triathlon medal holder ensures they're displayed proudly for years to come.
In this guide, we'll show you the safest way to clean your triathlon medals and the best way to display them using a custom triathlon medal display.
Why Do Triathlon Medals Become Dirty?
Unlike trophies that stay in display cases, race medals often travel home in backpacks, suitcases, gym bags, or even remain around your neck long after the finish line.
Common causes of tarnished medals include:
- Sweat and body oils
- Dirt from race day
- Saltwater from open-water swims
- Humidity and moisture
- Dust buildup
- Fingerprints
Even if your medals are made from zinc alloy, brass, or plated metals, regular maintenance helps preserve their finish.
What You'll Need
Before cleaning your medals, gather a few simple supplies:
- Soft microfiber cloth
- Bowl of warm water
- Mild dish soap
- Cotton swabs
- Soft toothbrush (optional)
- Clean dry towel
Avoid using:
- Steel wool
- Abrasive scrubbers
- Strong chemical cleaners
- Bleach
- Metal polish unless recommended by the race organizer
These can scratch or remove the medal's protective coating.
Step 1: Remove Surface Dust
Start by gently wiping your medal with a dry microfiber cloth.
This removes loose dust and prevents scratches during washing.
Pay special attention to engraved details where dirt often collects.
Step 2: Wash with Mild Soap
Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.
Dip the cloth into the water and gently wipe both sides of the medal.
For textured designs or recessed lettering, use a soft toothbrush or cotton swab to remove dirt without scratching the finish.
Do not soak the ribbon unless necessary.
Step 3: Rinse Carefully
Rinse the medal under clean lukewarm water to remove any soap residue.
Avoid high-pressure water that could loosen painted details or enamel sections.
Step 4: Dry Immediately
Use a soft towel to pat the medal dry.
Afterward, allow it to air dry completely before storing or hanging it.
Moisture trapped behind the ribbon can lead to mildew over time.
Step 5: Inspect the Ribbon
Many athletes focus on the medal itself but forget about the ribbon.
If the ribbon is dirty:
- Spot clean with mild soap.
- Avoid twisting or wringing it.
- Air dry flat.
If your ribbon has special printing from races like Ironman®, 70.3®, or local triathlon events, avoid harsh cleaners that may fade the graphics.
How Often Should You Clean Your Medals?
Most athletes only need to clean their medals:
- After race day if they're especially dirty.
- Every 6–12 months for displayed medals.
- Before photographing or showcasing your collection.
Regular dusting with a microfiber cloth is usually enough.
The Best Way to Store Triathlon Medals
Keeping medals in a box protects them from sunlight but hides the memories you've worked so hard to earn.
Instead, display them where you can see your progress every day.
A personalized triathlon medal holder lets you organize medals by race while protecting them from tangles and unnecessary wear.
Whether you've completed your first sprint triathlon, Olympic distance, Half Iron, or full-distance endurance events, displaying your medals turns your accomplishments into part of your home's story.
Why Choose a Personalized Triathlon Medal Display?
Every race has its own story.
A custom triathlon medal display transforms a collection of medals into a meaningful piece of wall art.
Features you'll find in AMWINDY's collection include:
- Personalized name engraving
- Space for multiple race medals
- Dedicated race bib display
- Layered wooden artwork
- Durable handcrafted construction
- Easy wall mounting
- Designs inspired by swimming, cycling, and running
Instead of hiding medals in a drawer, you create a display that celebrates every milestone—from your first finish to your latest personal best.
Tips for Long-Term Medal Preservation
To keep your medals looking great for years:
- Display them indoors away from direct sunlight.
- Keep them in a dry environment.
- Dust your display occasionally.
- Avoid touching the medal face with dirty hands.
- Hang medals individually rather than piling them together.
Should I Clean Medals Before Displaying Them?
Absolutely. Cleaning your medals before placing them on a personalized medal holder helps preserve their finish and keeps your display looking its best.
Celebrate Every Finish Line
Your medals tell the story of every early alarm, every mile on the bike, every lap in the pool, and every step across the finish line.
Taking a few minutes to clean and properly display them ensures those memories stay as impressive as the day you earned them.
If you're ready to turn your achievements into a display you'll be proud to see every day, explore AMWINDY's collection of personalized triathlon medal holders and custom medal hanger display —crafted to honor every finish, from your first race to your greatest endurance accomplishment.