New Peso Bills: How to Handle, Clean Polymer Banknotes

The Philippines' newest polymer banknotes come with extra tactile and security features to improve overall use and prevent scammers from faking money.

Here's how to properly handle your notes to keep them strong, clean, and clear for all transactions, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

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Keep them flat

Slide your banknotes into wallets that fit them properly. If creased or crumbled, apply pressure to flatten them with your hand. 

Keep them clean

Soiled or dirty banknotes may be gently cleaned with a slightly damp cloth. Alcohol-based sanitizers also work on banknotes, but be sure to wipe them dry immediately after with a towel or cloth.

Use your banknotes

Money is meant to be used. Don't hoard them, instead use them as payment for goods or services. Selling banknotes at higher prices is a violation.

Do not deface them

Do not mark, write on, or deface the banknotes.

Avoid excessive folding

Doing so can result in permanent fold marks or damage to the banknote.

Do not poke holes, cut, or tear banknotes

Establishments and providers may refuse to accept heavily damaged banknotes.

No staples

Do not use a stapler to keep banknotes together. For thick stacks, use rubber bands instead.

Keep the windows clear

Do not damage the clear windows on the polymer banknotes, metallic features, and other security features. More than just aesthetic, they ensure that banknotes are hard to dupe.

Do not place them over an open flame

Keep banknotes away from direct fire, open flame, or high temperatures. Burning money on TikTok might be cool, but the BSP has cautioned against it as it is a violation.

Do not iron them

To straighten them, use pressure from your hands.

Avoid strong chemicals

Strong chemicals like muriatic acid and bleach can cause permanent damage to the note, rendering it void.