Honour Their Service

A military career deserves more than a shelf full of medals and keepsakes. Reliable Bear Shadow Boxes provide a lasting way to preserve and display the moments, achievements, and memories that define a lifetime of service.

Shadow box upgrade options can be found here. If you are looking for a fully custom display, please contact us at sales@reliablebear.ca.

Shadow Box Care Guide

Your shadow box is handcrafted from solid oak and finished with teak oil to highlight the natural beauty of the wood while providing lasting protection. With proper care, it will continue to look great for generations.

Indoor Use

Our shadow boxes are intended for indoor display. While the UV-resistant polycarbonate front is suitable for bright rooms, the piece should not be exposed to rain, excessive moisture, or prolonged outdoor conditions.

Cleaning the Wood

Dust regularly using:

• A soft microfiber cloth
• A feather duster
• Compressed air for intricate carvings

If necessary, wipe the wood with a slightly damp microfiber cloth, then dry it immediately.

Avoid:

• Household cleaners
• Furniture polish
• Solvents or alcohol
• Excessive water

These products can damage or strip the teak oil finish.

Caring for the Polycarbonate Front

We use UV-resistant polycarbonate instead of acrylic because it offers excellent impact resistance and long-term clarity. However, polycarbonate is more susceptible to surface scratches.

To keep it looking its best:

• Clean only with a clean microfiber cloth.
• Remove dust before wiping to avoid scratching.
• If additional cleaning is needed, use mild soap and water.
• Dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

Avoid:

• Paper towels
• Abrasive cloths or sponges
• Glass cleaners containing ammonia
• Solvents or alcohol-based cleaners

Treat the surface gently to minimize fine scratches.

Maintaining the Teak Oil Finish

The oak is protected with a hand-applied teak oil finish.

Over time, the wood may appear slightly drier or lose some of its original richness. If desired, the finish can be refreshed by applying a quality teak oil according to the manufacturer's directions.

Before reapplying:

1. Clean the surface thoroughly.
2. Allow it to dry completely.
3. Apply a thin, even coat.
4. Wipe away any excess oil.
5. Allow the finish to cure before handling.

Reapplication is optional and is primarily for appearance rather than protection.

Sunlight

While the polycarbonate panel is UV resistant, wood is a natural material and will slowly change colour with age.

For the longest-lasting appearance:

• Avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
• Keep the shadow box away from heat registers and fireplaces.

These changes are a normal part of real wood and add character over time.

Temperature and Humidity

Solid wood naturally expands and contracts with seasonal humidity changes.

For best results:

• Maintain indoor humidity between 35% and 55%.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to high humidity.
• Do not install in bathrooms, saunas, or other damp environments.

Minor seasonal movement is normal and not considered a defect.

Hanging Your Shadow Box

Always use mounting hardware appropriate for your wall type.

For drywall installations:

• Use quality drywall anchors unless mounting directly into a wall stud.
• Ensure the hanging hardware is fully engaged before releasing the piece.

Larger shadow boxes should be secured using two mounting points to keep them level and prevent movement.

LED Lighting

If your shadow box includes LED backlighting:

• Use only the supplied power adapter or an equivalent with the correct voltage and polarity.
• Do not pinch or sharply bend the power cable.
• Disconnect power before cleaning.
• If the lights stop working, check all cable connections before replacing the power supply.

Natural Wood Characteristics

Every piece of oak is unique.

You may notice:

• Variations in grain pattern
• Knots or mineral streaks
• Differences in colour
• Slight seasonal movement

These are natural characteristics of solid wood and are part of what makes each shadow box one of a kind.

Warranty Exclusions

Our warranty does not cover damage caused by:

• Improper installation
• Water or moisture damage
• Accidental impacts or drops
• Modifications or disassembly
• Use of improper cleaning products
• Scratches to the polycarbonate caused by abrasive cleaning or mishandling
• Outdoor use or exposure to the elements

With basic care and occasional maintenance, your handcrafted oak shadow box will remain a lasting display piece that can be enjoyed for years to come.