Aluminum Dice Care: Prevent Scratches and Wear

By Norse Foundry | Premium RPG Dice Sets | DND Dice | 100 | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to clean and maintain aluminum dice to prevent scratches and wear. Simple steps to keep your 6063 aluminum RPG dice looking sharp for years.

Quick Answer

To keep aluminum dice scratch-free, handle them over a soft surface, clean them gently with mild soap and water, and store them in a lined dice tray or pouch.

Why Aluminum Dice Need Special Care

Aluminum dice are prized for their lightweight feel and vibrant anodized finishes. However, aluminum is softer than steel or zinc alloys, so it's more prone to scratches and dings. The anodized coating, which gives dice their color, can wear off with rough handling or abrasive cleaning.

The trade-off is durability versus weight: aluminum dice won't dent a table like heavier metal dice, but they require a bit more TLC to keep their finish pristine. Understanding this balance helps you enjoy your dice without worrying about every roll.

Step-by-Step Aluminum Dice Care

Prepare a Soft Rolling Surface: Always roll aluminum dice on a dice tray with a felt or leather lining, or on a soft mat. Avoid hard surfaces like wood or stone, which can scratch the anodized finish. Checkpoint: If you don't have a tray, use a folded cloth as a temporary rolling surface.
Clean with Mild Soap and Water: Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap. Gently wipe the dice to remove oils and dirt. Avoid soaking the dice or using harsh chemicals. Checkpoint: Never use abrasive pads or metal polishes; they will strip the anodized coating.
Dry Thoroughly and Buff: Pat the dice dry with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Then gently buff the surface to restore shine. Ensure no moisture remains, especially in the engraved numbers. Checkpoint: Let the dice air-dry completely before storing to prevent any residue.
Store in a Lined Container: Keep your aluminum dice in a dice bag with soft dividers or a lined box. Avoid tossing them loose with other metal dice, which can cause scratches from friction. Checkpoint: If you must store them together, wrap each die in a soft cloth or use individual pouches.
Handle with Clean Hands: Before rolling, wash your hands to remove lotions, oils, or dirt that can transfer to the dice. This reduces the need for frequent cleaning and keeps the finish bright. Checkpoint: If you notice buildup, repeat the cleaning steps rather than scrubbing harder.

Dice Mentioned in This Guide

Holy Smite! - 7 Piece RPG Set 6063 Aluminum Wondrous Dice: This 7-piece RPG set is anodized in icy blue and silver, giving it a durable yet vibrant finish. The anodized coating is beautiful but can scratch if not cared for properly, so following the care steps below will help preserve its royal appearance.
Holy Smite! - 7 Piece RPG Set 6063 Aluminum Wondrous Dice