Sudden bed adhesion problems, and usual fixes aren't working

If I only had a dollar for every post here that claims … “I cleaned my plate thoroughly.” :wink:

Before confirming a plate is clean, run a first layer test, as it will highlight any issues with the build surface.

  1. Simple layer test: Scale a cube primitive to 240x240x0.20mm, center it, and print. If the model isn’t a smooth sheet, the plate is likely contaminated.

  2. Use glue: Apply glue to see if it improves stiction properties.

  3. Painter’s tape: Apply tape to the build surface. If material sticks to the tape, it indicates contamination. This was the way 3D printing was done before heated beds.

  4. Check plate temperature: Use a non-contact thermometer (as low as $11) to verify even heating. Here’s a link. Uneven temperatures can indicate contact issues with the magnetic plate.

  5. Raise bed temp: Increase the bed temp by 20C or more and see if this affects the model stiction.

  6. Brims; The use of Brims can help with stiction.

  7. Deep clean: Avoid IPA for deep cleaning, most people use the drug store 75% IPA which itself may have contaminants. Instead, use Dawn dishwashing detergent and hot water with a nylon scrub pad. Details can be found in this link.

If you are using 75% drug store IPA, look on Amazon for 95% or better IPA or your local paint or hardware store may have denatured alcohol in the solvents section which is also a better cleaner albeit very expensive.

This is the most recent brand of IPA I purchased exclusively for cleaning. It was the cheapest I could find in bulk. But there are many others out there so buy on price not label.

In addition to that, get a high volume sprayer which will flood the surface of the plate. This is much more effective than using a rag and will wash away the contaminants with a forceful blast. Here’s two examples that I found effective. One is made of glass and the other, wide mouth. They both have a jet option which is useful and acts almost like a pressure washer.

This one has the highest blast pressure and is designed to be used with harsh chemicals. The only drawback is the narrow neck of the bottle.


Photo Album

Plates that folks swore were clean and looked clean after IPA but weren’t



Example of a perfect first layer test from a clean plate.

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