How to Care for Pusheen Enamel Pins to Prevent Scratches

Quick answer

Store each Pusheen enamel pin separately in a soft pouch or on a padded pin board, clean only with a dry or slightly damp soft cloth, and handle by the edges. Avoid tossing pins loose in bags or rubbing them against metal backs, which causes most scratches.

Pusheen enamel pins are small, shiny, and easy to scratch if they rattle around with keys or other pins. The good news: a five-minute routine keeps them looking new without harsh chemicals or special tools.

This guide walks through the exact steps to prevent scratches, clean safely, and store your collection. Whether you wear your pins daily or display them, these habits protect the enamel and the metal finish.

Why enamel pins scratch so easily

Enamel pins have a glossy, glass-like surface that can pick up micro-scratches from harder materials like keys, coins, and other pins' metal backs. Even a soft cloth can trap grit that dulls the shine over time. The biggest risk is friction during storage or transport.

Pusheen pins often have fine details and colored enamel, so scratches show up more on darker or metallic areas. That's why prevention is easier than repair: once the enamel is scratched, you can't polish it out like solid metal.

• Never store pins loose in a purse or pocket with keys or coins.
• Keep pins away from abrasive surfaces like concrete or rough fabric.
• Handle pins by the edges, not the enamel face.

Step 1: Set up a scratch-free storage system

The single best way to prevent pin scratches is to give each pin its own space. A padded pin board, felt-lined box, or individual soft pouches all work. If you use a pin board, make sure the backing is soft enough that pins don't rub against each other when you move it.

For travel or swapping, use a small jewelry roll or a dedicated pin case with dividers. Avoid sandwiching pins face-to-face; the metal backs can scratch the enamel of the pin behind them.

• Use a felt or foam insert in your storage box to cushion pins.
• Leave a finger-width gap between pins on a board.
• For extra protection, slip each pin into a small velvet pouch.

Step 2: Clean gently with the right materials

Dust and oils from your fingers dull the shine. Wipe your pins with a dry, soft microfiber cloth after wearing. If there's a smudge, breathe on the pin and wipe gently, or use a barely damp cloth with plain water. Never use alcohol, acetone, or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the enamel or printed details.

For hard-to-reach crevices, a soft-bristle toothbrush (dry) works well. Don't soak pins in water; moisture can get behind the enamel and cause discoloration over time.

• Microfiber cloths are safer than paper towels, which can leave lint and scratches.
• Dry pins completely before storing.
• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners; they can loosen the enamel.

Step 3: Handle and wear your pins carefully

When attaching a pin to a bag, jacket, or lanyard, press the back firmly but don't force it. A common mistake is pushing the pin through thick fabric and bending the post, which can crack the enamel around the edges. Use a thimble or a firm surface behind the fabric if needed.

If you wear multiple pins on one garment, make sure they don't clink together. Metal-on-metal contact is the fastest way to scratch the enamel. Consider spacing them out or using a pin flag to separate them.

• Attach pins to fabric, not directly against other pins.
• Remove pins before washing the garment.
• Check pin backs periodically; loose backs can let pins fall and scratch.

Step 4: Rotate and inspect your collection

If you display your pins, rotate them every few months to check for any scratches or loose enamel. Early detection helps you isolate a damaged pin before it scratches others. Also check for rust on the metal parts, especially if you live in a humid climate.

For long-term storage, keep pins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time. A simple shoe box with a felt liner works if you don't have a display case.

• Inspect pins for scratches or loose backs every season.
• Keep a small repair kit with extra pin backs and a soft cloth.
• Store pins away from windows and heat sources.

Your 5-step pin care routine

1. Separate every pin: Store each Pusheen enamel pin in its own soft pouch or with a felt divider so metal backs never touch enamel faces. Checkpoint: no pin should be able to slide into another.
2. Wipe after wearing: Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and dust. For smudges, breathe on the pin and wipe gently—no water needed. Mistake to avoid: rubbing with paper towels or rough fabric.
3. Attach with care: Push the pin through fabric over a firm surface, then secure the back without over-tightening. Don't force through thick seams. Checkpoint: the pin sits flat and the post isn't bent.
4. Space pins on display: Leave a finger-width gap between pins on a board or garment so they can't clink together. Mistake to avoid: clustering pins so backs scratch neighboring enamel.
5. Inspect and rotate: Every few months, check for scratches, loose backs, or rust. Isolate any damaged pin and clean the storage area. Next step: replace worn pin backs before they fail.

Pusheen pin-friendly picks

• Pusheen 3-Pack Hair Scrunchies: Featuring Pusheen listening to tunes, chasing shooting stars, and surrounded by hearts, stars, and moons, these soft fabric scrunchies add a touch of whimsy and cuteness to any look! The soft fabric is gentle on pin backs and can cushion pins in a bag, but avoid storing pins directly against the scrunchies' elastic to prevent snags.
• Gamer Pusheen Controller Keystrap: The Gamer Pusheen Controller Keystrap has an embroidered patch and the woven strap measures 10" long and fits comfortably around the wrist. With two gamer acrylic charms, this keystrap is the cutest accessory! If you clip this keystrap to your bag, keep enamel pins on a separate pocket or panel so the acrylic charms and metal clip don't rub against them.

With a little separation, gentle cleaning, and careful handling, your Pusheen enamel pins will stay shiny and scratch-free for years. Make the routine a habit and enjoy your collection without worry.