Caring for Mahjong Tiles

 

Mahjong tiles aren’t just playing pieces - they’re part of the story you share with friends and family around the table. With proper care, your tiles will last for years - just ask any lucky owner of an antique mahjong set. Without care, however, tiles can fade, warp, or even crack over time. Below, we’ll walk you through the do’s and don’ts of mahjong tile care - and why they matter.

Why Tile Care Matters

Our My Fair Mahjong tiles are made from high-quality materials (melamine and acrylic with inks), but like any fine game set, they’re sensitive to their environment. Heat, humidity, pressure, and harsh cleaners can all cause lasting damage. The good news? A little care goes a long way in preserving their look and feel.

Do’s: The Right Way to Care for Mahjong Tiles

  • Store in a cool, dry space - Indoors, away from direct sunlight, is best. Extreme temperatures or bright UV rays can cause discoloration or warping.

  • Wipe after play - Wipe tiles with a soft cloth to remove oils and dust. For tougher spots, use a baby wipe or damp microfiber cloth, then dry promptly.

  • Clean gently - If your tiles need a deeper refresh, use mild soapy water with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry promptly to avoid residue.

  • Test first - If you’re unsure about a cleaning method, always test it on an extra tile before applying it to your full set.

Don’ts: What to Avoid

  • Don’t leave tiles in a hot car, garage, or attic - Prolonged heat and humidity can warp or crack tiles and damage their finish.

  • Don’t soak tiles in water - Extended submersion can weaken adhesives or materials.

  • Don’t use alcohol-based products, sanitizers, or solvents - These harsh chemicals can strip paint, dull the finish, or cause surface damage.

  • Don’t place heavy items on top - The weight can chip, dent, or permanently deform tiles.

The Consequences of Neglect

Ignoring these simple guidelines can lead to:

  • Discoloration - Tiles and inks may yellow or fade if left in heat or sunlight.

  • Warping or cracking - Extreme temperature changes can distort the shape, making tiles uneven. 

  • Surface damage - Scratches, chips, or chemical etching affect both appearance and play.

  • Loss of detail - Harsh cleaners can blur or remove engraved or painted designs.

  • Delamination - On multi-layer tiles, poor storage or exposure to heat/humidity can cause the layers and/or the designs between layers to detach.

When tiles are damaged, it affects more than just the look of your set - it changes the way they feel in your hands, the way they slide across the table, and the joy of the game itself.

Keep Them Safe, Keep the Smiles

By following these easy steps, you’ll protect your tiles so they remain as vibrant and playable as the day you got them. It’s a small effort that ensures your set can be part of many memories to come.

Keep them safe, and they’ll keep bringing you Smiles & Tiles 💛🩷🩵