Whether you're just starting your collection or you've got Detolfs bursting at the seams, keeping your anime figures clean and cared for is a key part of enjoying the hobby long-term. Dust, sunlight, and even fingerprints can all take a toll over time, but with a little routine maintenance, your figures will stay in display-worthy condition for years to come.

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Here's my non-exhaustive guide on keeping your precious PVC clean and safe:

Storage & Display

If you've finally taken your figures out of their boxes, the next step is finding a decent place to put them. Prevention is a lot easier than restoration when it comes to keeping figures clean.

✅ Do:

• Display behind glass if possible (less dust = less cleaning)

• Keep figures out of direct sunlight to avoid fading or yellowing

• Use stable shelves or display cases - you do not want to deal with broken bases or snapped joints from a fall

❌ Don't:

• Store figures in high-humidity areas (like bathrooms or near humidifiers)

• Use adhesive tack or glue for posing - long-term chemical reactions can stain plastic

• Stack accessories or weapons loosely - they can warp over time under their own weight

Routine Maintenance

Even in a closed case, figures will get dusty over time. A light, regular dusting every 1–2 weeks makes deep cleaning less necessary.

Tools I Recommend:

• Soft makeup brush (synthetic bristles, super gentle!)

• Compressed air (for hard to reach spots - just don't shake the can)

• Camera lens blower (gentle and no risk of moisture)

Use gentle strokes! Never scrub your figures! 😱

Deep Cleaning

Got a figure that's been boxed for months… or years? Or one that's gotten a bit sticky (yes, that happens with certain plastics)? Time for a deeper clean.

What you'll need

• Lukewarm water (never hot!)

• A few drops of mild dish soap

• Soft toothbrush or cotton swabs

• A microfiber cloth for drying

Steps for cleaning

1. Remove any parts that come off easily - especially fragile accessories

2. Dip a cloth or swab in the soapy water and gently wipe problem areas

3. For crevices or textured parts, use the toothbrush with light pressure

4. Rinse using a slightly damp cloth (don't run figures under the tap)

5. Air dry fully before reassembling or putting back on display

💡 Warning: Some older figures or cheaper paints may not be water safe. Always test on a hidden spot first!

Still sticky?

PVC figures can become sticky over time due to plasticizer leaching (especially with poor ventilation or heat exposure). Using 70% Isopropyl alcohol on a cloth or soft cotton pad can help remove the stickiness. Be gentle and avoid printed areas. Let the figure air out in a cool dry space for a day or 2 afterwards.

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A quick dust every week and a deep clean every few months can extend a figures lifespan and keep them looking just as amazing as the day you unboxed them.

Fire away in the comments with your own tips and tricks.