A Collector’s Guide to Maintaining and Cleaning Fandom Figures

Introduction

Collecting fandom figures is so much fun! I love looking at my collection and sharing with others what certain figures mean to me. There is always that one movie or series that impacted you on such a level you just had to get the character. However, with amazing figures comes great responsibility! Whether you own anime statues, superhero action figures, or sci-fi collectibles, proper care ensures they stay in pristine condition for years to come. No one wants to see yellowing or paint coming off due to neglect. In this guide, I’ll walk you through essential maintenance and cleaning tips that every collector should know.

Why Does Maintenance Matter?

Figures are investments—emotionally and financially. Dust, sunlight, and improper handling can degrade their appearance and value over time. Regular upkeep helps:

* Preserve paint and detailing

* Prevent discoloration

* Maintain resale value

* Keep your display looking sharp

General Handling Tips

Always wash your hands before handling figures to avoid transferring oils and dirt.

Avoid frequent repositioning to minimize wear on joints or paint.

Use gloves when dealing with high-end or rare figures to prevent fingerprints.

Support figures properly when moving them—never lift a figure by fragile parts like accessories or hair.

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Dusting and Light Cleaning

Dust is the #1 enemy of figure collectors. Dust is made up of skin cells, clothing fibers, dust mites, insect parts, soil, pollen and microplastics! When you find a layer of dust on your figures and collectibles it is best to clean up once you’ve noticed it. Dust can jam joints and when you do handle a dust figure, it can cause scratches and even stain certain paint colors. Here’s how to fight the pesky dust that will surely accumulate:

The Tool Set:

* Soft makeup brush or artist’s brush (Can be bought for rather cheaply at Dollar Stores, Marshall’s, Dollar Tree, etc)

* Microfiber cloth (Can purchase these in bulk for around $10)

* Air blower (Silicone hand pump is around $8)

How to Dust:

1. Using a soft makeup brush gently dust off figures or collectibles using light strokes, starting from the top and working your way down to the feet or base.

2. Using the silicone air blower position it in areas that are tight or difficult to reach with the bush such as joints, hair sections close to the head, etc.

3. Then using the microfiber cloth wipe down bases and non-painted surfaces.

Pro Tip: Dust your figures at least once a month, especially if they’re displayed in open air.

Deep Cleaning Methods

Okay, sometimes you just gotta get deep with your cleaning. Dusting is great for monthly maintenance, but deep cleans are still essential for long term care for collectibles. For a deeper clean:

Water and Mild Soap:

For “mild soap” most recommend using dish soap which is pretty affordable, but you destroy your figures if you decide to get a soap that is marketed as being gentle.

1. Grab a bowl and fill it with lukewarm water and add a few drops of gentle dish soap.

2. Using some q-tips or a microfiber cloth, dip it into the solution and then gently starting from the top of the collectible wipe off any grease or dust. Don’t forget to wear some gloves too!

3. Lastly, dip a clean microfiber cloth or q-tip into a bowl of clean water to rinse, and air dry completely before displaying.

Super Important: Do not soak the figure. Avoid painted areas unless you’re certain the paint is sealed.

Avoid These Mistakes:

* Never use alcohol, bleach, or harsh chemicals

* Don’t submerge the entire figure in water

* Avoid scrubbing or using rough sponges or toothbrushes

Storage and Display Tips

Now that your figures are squeaky clean you’ll want to display them in all their glory. However, displaying your figures certain ways can help reduce damage from dust, sun and prevent un-wanted manhandling. Here are the tips to keep your collection looking it’s best!

Protective Measures:

– Use enclosed cases to reduce exposure to dust

Place collectibles away from direct light to prevent fading

Don’t put collectibles in areas with high heat (fireplace) and humidity (bathroom, kitchen)

Use figure stands to ensure flat surfaces to prevent figures from tipping or leaning

For collectors who keep boxes make sure to:

Secure boxed collectibles with bubble wrap or foam

Store boxes in locations that maintain a cool temperature away from water or humidity

Always label figures and collectibles that are in storage

Extra tip: for large collections possibly create a tracking storage system so if you are inclined to sell one you can easily locate it without having to open everything

When to Consider Restoration or Repairs

Sometimes you might find a figure that has some damage which does happen to the best of us! One of my favorite figures was damaged by me when I was showing it to a friend. I took it out of the case and I swear it jumped out of my hand onto the floor. So don’t fret if you find yourself in my shoes! Checkout these tips to get your collectible fixed:

* Hobby glue is great for fixing small breaks, but apply with a toothpick

* Remember those brushed for cleaning? You can also use them with acrylic paint to fix minor scuffs or chips (test color first!)

* For the super valuable figures you can hire professional restorers or painters (checkout your local hobby shop for referrals)

Conclusion

Keeping your fandom figures clean and well-maintained not only extends their life but also preserves your enjoyment and the value of your collection. Why throw away your investment by not taking the time to keep the figures clean? Anything that is loved and cherished deserves some extra care! This doesn’t just apply to someone with a massive collection, even beginners should take care of their collection. Using the right tools, a loving touch and a little consistency, your collection will be looking great for years. Happy collecting!