One day, you buy a stunning single anime figure, and suddenly, your room is filled with figurines of your favorite characters from anime, manga, and games!
You may be the kind who prefers to visit stores and see each anime figure in detail before buying them or someone who enjoys the thrill of receiving an exclusive Rias or Albedo figure. Either way, the truth is that growing an anime figure collection (or even action figures) is an expensive hobby, so you deserve to make the most of the money spent.
[CAPTION: Anime Figures by The Otaku Box]
In general, taking care of anime figures isn’t a difficult task. However, some tips can help you maintain the aspect or quality they had when you took them out of the box. They will look better and become even more valuable if you plan to re-sell them.
Here are some recommendations to maintain the quality of your anime figures.
1. Handle your figures with care:
This is where it all begins! Be careful when handling and moving your anime figure, especially delicate parts like limbs and hair. Also, be patient when replacing accessories to avoid damage.
You can also use gloves when handling your figures if you’d like to be extra careful. With time, even contact with our skin damages the pieces.
2. Make sure your figures are in a safe place:
When displaying or storing your anime figures, avoid areas with high humidity or household chemicals, for example. Use display cases or cabinets to protect them from the effects of the environment.
Another area that should be avoided receives direct sunlight for long periods. The prolonged exposure fades colors, and the heat can damage the material, even melting it.
3. Clean them Regularly:
Even if your figures are enclosed, it’s tough to avoid dust altogether. So dust your figures regularly so they don’t look neglected, and preferably, use soft materials to accomplish this task. Carefully use a mild detergent and soft cloth for stubborn spots, ensuring the former won’t leave stains.
4. Inspect your figures regularly and repair them ASAP
Be attentive. Check your figures occasionally for any signs of damage, and address issues immediately to prevent the problem from worsening. Avoid using glue, adhesive tape, or other materials that damage your anime figure even more.
Again, use appropriate materials and, if needed, consider looking for professional repair services.
5. Rotate the display of your figures
I know it may be hard to let go of your grail figures, rotating the ones on display will help minimize the effects of exposure mentioned above — and many others, such as the pressure on some points. Check this post for ideas or fun ways to display your figures!
Further, when storing your figures, try to keep them in their original packaging or specialized containers. That way, you can prevent damage and remain organized without losing accessories. Wrap fragile parts in soft material or bubble wrap to avoid scratches.
Extra Tips:
Keep all receipts, certificates of authenticity, or any relevant documentation that might add value to your collection for potential future re-sell or trade. Plus, each figure might have specific care instructions; pay attention to specialized recommendations for individual pieces.
Keeping the original box, especially if it’s undamaged, also increases the value of the anime figure. Apply the same tips above (don’t apply detergent on cardboard boxes!) to the packaging if you plan to sell a figure in the future.