How to Care for Resin and PVC Statues - Essential Tips For Collectors

Resin and PVC statues are prized collectibles, valued for their incredible detail and craftsmanship. Proper care is essential to maintain their beauty and longevity. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, these practical tips will help you preserve your statues for years to come.

Note that any cleaning that you try on a collectible risks damaging it. The best way to avoid damage is to protect the collectibles as much as you can from environmental damage.

Use Display Cases

Keeping your statues behind closed doors helps protect them from accidental damage and harsh lighting.

There are various display options out there. Many collectors opt for Ikea display cabinets which are very good value for money. Detolf cabinets are very popular for 1/6 figures however these are no longer made. You can find these used on Ebay from time to time. 

Avoid UV and Sunlight Exposure

Direct sunlight can cause fading or discolouration of painted surfaces over time.

Display your statues away from windows or under UV-protective glass in a display case.

If you use lighting for your displays, opt for UV-free LED lights to reduce the risk of damage.

Control Temperature and Humidity

Resin and PVC can warp or crack under extreme temperatures:

Keep your statues in a room with a consistent temperature between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Maintain moderate humidity levels to prevent cracking or mold growth.

Avoid placing your statues near radiators, fireplaces, or damp areas.

Consider a digital room thermometer for any room with collectibles in. These are very cheap to buy and often show humidity levels too.

Handling and Storage

Try to handle statues as little as possible and ideally with a soft cloth or cotton gloves. If you use your hands, bear in mind you may transfer oil or dirt which could damage the statue.

For large or fragile pieces:

Use two hands and handle from sturdy areas like the base, avoiding fragile parts like weapons or limbs.

When storing:

Use the original packaging and foam inserts to keep statues safe during transport or temporary storage.

Dusting

Dusting comes at risk which should be balanced. One one hand, the dust might damage or dull the painted surface, but removing it may also case damage!

If you decide to risk dusting, use a soft, clean microfiber cloth or a clean makeup brush to gently remove dust from the surface and intricate areas.

Avoid abrasive materials, as they could scratch or damage delicate details.

Cleaning Resin and PVC Surfaces

As with dusting, cleaning marks from your statue risks damaging it. Check the manufacturer's website or care instructions for any advice before attempting to clean.

Paintwork varies on resin and PVC statues. Some manufacturers will seal paintwork enough that you can use a damp cloth to gently clean marks off. But some statues may have paintwork that is easily rubbed off. 

Never use any cleaning chemicals on a statue, unless the manufacturer has recommended it.

Long-Term Preservation Tips

Some collectors choose to apply a thin layer of museum-grade wax or a resin-safe protectant to extend the lifespan of their statues. Again, this is a risk that you must balance as it’s possible any coating may damage the collectible. If you decide to do this, we suggest testing it on an inconspicuous area first.

Inspect your collection regularly for signs of wear, discolouration, or pests.

Use risers or tiered displays to prevent overcrowding and reduce the risk of accidental damage.

If you are storing your collectible in a box, be sure that the environment adheres to the temperature and humidity suggestions we listed above. 

Conclusion

With proper care, resin and PVC statues can remain as breathtaking as the day they were unboxed. These maintenance tips not only protect your investment but also enhance your enjoyment as a collector. By taking the time to clean, display, and store your collectibles thoughtfully, you’ll ensure they remain the centrepiece of your collection for years to come.

Did we miss any that you think are helpful to other collectors? Share your statue care tips in the comments below.