How to Care for Polyurethane Armour

A Complete Guide to Cleaning, Maintaining and Storing Your LARP Armour

One of the biggest advantages of polyurethane armour is that it requires very little maintenance compared to traditional steel armour. Unlike metal, it won't rust, doesn't need regular oiling and won't leave you spending hours polishing before every event.

That doesn't mean it should be neglected.

Looking after your armour properly will keep it looking its best, help preserve the paintwork and ensure it remains ready for years of LARP adventures, cosplay events, theatre productions and conventions.

In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to care for your polyurethane armour, from cleaning after a muddy weekend event to storing it correctly between adventures.

Why Polyurethane Armour Is So Easy to Maintain

Traditional steel armour demands regular attention. Moisture causes rust, fingerprints stain polished surfaces and many steel pieces require protective oils or waxes.

Polyurethane armour is different.

Because it is made from high-quality cast polyurethane, it offers several maintenance advantages:

• Will not rust
• Resistant to moisture
• Easy to clean
• Lightweight to handle
• Doesn't require polishing
• Durable enough for regular use

This makes it an excellent choice for LARP players who want realistic-looking armour without the time-consuming upkeep associated with steel.

Cleaning Your Armour After an Event

After a busy weekend, your armour may be covered in:

• Mud
• Grass stains
• Dust
• Sweat
• Rain marks
• Campfire smoke

Fortunately, cleaning polyurethane armour is simple.

What You'll Need

• Soft microfibre cloth
• Bucket of warm water
• Mild washing-up liquid or gentle soap
• Soft sponge
• Dry towel

Avoid abrasive pads or stiff brushes, as these can damage painted finishes.

Step 1 – Remove Loose Dirt

Before introducing water, wipe away loose dirt using a dry cloth.

Removing grit first helps prevent scratching the painted surface while cleaning.

If your armour has dried mud, allow it to soften with a damp cloth before wiping it away.

Step 2 – Wash Gently

Mix a small amount of mild soap into warm water.

Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently clean the armour one section at a time.

Pay particular attention to:

• Edges
• Decorative grooves
• Rivet details
• Strap attachment points

Avoid soaking leather straps or buckles unnecessarily.

Step 3 – Dry Thoroughly

After cleaning, wipe away any remaining moisture with a clean towel.

Although polyurethane itself won't rust, leather straps, buckles and fittings will last longer if they're dried properly before storage.

Allow everything to air dry completely before packing it away.

Can You Use Pressure Washers?

No.

High-pressure water can damage paint finishes, force water into strap fittings and unnecessarily stress glued or riveted components.

A damp cloth is all that's usually required.

What Cleaning Products Should You Avoid?

Not all household cleaners are suitable.

Avoid:

• Bleach
• Solvents
• Acetone
• White spirit
• Paint stripper
• Abrasive cream cleaners
• Wire brushes
• Scouring pads

These products may damage paintwork or decorative finishes.

If you're unsure, always test any cleaner on a hidden area first.

Looking After the Paint Finish

Your armour's paintwork is part of what creates its realistic appearance.

To keep it looking its best:

• Avoid dragging armour across rough surfaces
• Transport pieces separately where possible
• Don't stack heavy items directly on painted surfaces
• Clean dirt off promptly after events

Small scuffs gained during LARP are often part of the character and can even add to the authentic, battle-worn appearance.

Caring for Leather Straps

Most polyurethane armour uses leather straps to secure pieces comfortably.

Check them regularly for:

• Loose rivets
• Cracked leather
• Worn holes
• Fraying

Occasionally treating leather with a suitable conditioner will help keep it supple, especially if it has become wet during an event.

Always allow leather to dry naturally before conditioning.

Checking Buckles and Fastenings

Before every event, quickly inspect:

• Buckles
• Rivets
• Chicago screws (if fitted)
• Strap fixings
• Decorative fittings

A two-minute inspection before leaving home can prevent problems on the battlefield.

Transporting Your Armour

One advantage of polyurethane armour is that it's much lighter than steel.

However, it's still worth transporting it carefully.

We recommend:

• Using padded storage bags
• Wrapping individual pieces in cloth
• Avoiding loose metal objects rubbing against painted surfaces
• Packing heavier items underneath lighter pieces

If travelling to events, avoid throwing armour loosely into the boot of your car.

Storing Armour Between Events

When your event is over, don't simply leave your armour in a damp garage or the back of the car.

Instead:

• Clean it first
• Ensure it's completely dry
• Store in a cool, dry room
• Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
• Keep away from excessive heat

Proper storage keeps both the armour and its straps in excellent condition.

Can Polyurethane Armour Be Repainted?

Yes.

If your armour becomes scratched or you simply want to customise it for a new character, polyurethane can usually be repainted using suitable primers and acrylic paints.

Many experienced LARP players enjoy adding:

• Battle damage
• Rust effects
• Blood effects
• Dirt weathering
• Personal heraldry

If repainting, always prepare the surface properly and use products recommended for polyurethane or flexible plastics.

Common Maintenance Mistakes

Leaving Mud On for Weeks

Mud traps moisture around straps and fittings.

Cleaning your armour soon after an event is always the best approach.

Storing Armour While Damp

Even though polyurethane itself won't rust, damp leather can deteriorate if stored wet.

Always allow everything to dry first.

Using Harsh Chemicals

Strong cleaning products rarely improve results and can damage painted finishes.

Warm water and mild soap are usually all you need.

Throwing Everything Into One Box

Loose buckles rubbing against painted surfaces during transport can cause unnecessary wear.

A little protection goes a long way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does polyurethane armour rust?

No. Polyurethane itself will not rust, making it much easier to maintain than traditional steel armour.

Can I wear polyurethane armour in the rain?

Yes. Rain won't damage the polyurethane, although leather straps should be dried afterwards.

How often should I clean my armour?

Ideally after every event, especially if it has become muddy or dusty.

Can scratches be repaired?

Minor marks often add realistic character. More noticeable damage can usually be touched up with suitable paints.

Is polyurethane armour suitable for long-term use?

Absolutely. With basic care and sensible storage, high-quality polyurethane armour can provide many years of reliable service.

Why Wyrmwick Armour Is Built to Last

At Wyrmwick Creations, we manufacture our armour from high-quality cast polyurethane because it combines exceptional detail with outstanding durability.

Our armour is designed for real-world LARP use—weekend battles, conventions, theatre productions and cosplay events—not just display.

With simple cleaning, sensible storage and occasional strap checks, your armour will continue looking impressive event after event.

Keep Your Armour Adventure Ready

Good armour becomes part of your character's story.

Looking after it doesn't require hours of work—just a few minutes after each event.

By cleaning it regularly, storing it correctly and checking straps before each adventure, you'll ensure your armour is always ready for the next quest.

Whether you're marching into your first LARP battle or your hundredth, Wyrmwick polyurethane armour is built to help you focus on the adventure, not the maintenance.

Related Guides

If you found this guide helpful, you might also enjoy:

• The Complete Beginner's Guide to Choosing LARP Armour
• Polyurethane vs Steel vs EVA Foam Armour – Why Polyurethane Is the Best Choice for LARP
• How Medieval Armour Fits – A Practical Guide
• How to Build Your First Suit of LARP Armour