If you take care of your action figure collection you can be sure that it will last a long time. It is easy to do and takes very little time and effort. Correct care for your collection will allow it to hold its value also.
Why do you need to take care of your action figure collection?
Far from popular belief action figures are actually very delicate. You may think that they are nearly indestructible because they are made to be played with, but over time they will get destroyed. Your figure can show signs of damaged paint, discoloration, and dirt build up if you are not careful.
Action Figure Enemies:
Sunlight – Sunlight is probably the most dangerous predator for your action figure collection. If you leave your figure in the sun too long then the plastic can crack and fade big time. If you have a action figure that you dont really like then put him in a sunny window for a month and then take a look at the damages.
Humidity – Humidity is another collection destroyer. It can cause stickers and decals to fall off, joints to loosen, and paint to chip. Thankfully there is an easy fix to the loose joints.
Dust/Dirt – Dust and dirt mixed with action figures will give you a terrible action figure display. If you are a MOC collector then the dirt and oils from your hands can also damage the packages if handled too much.
Taking Care – Tips
- Keep your action figures displayed where direct sunlight will never meet them. If you have a room full of action figures then it would be best for you to close the curtains and never open them.
- If you are keeping action figures in their packages then you should get boxes that will be able to keep the humidity out. Cardboard boxes are far from ideal for storing your action figures because they let humidity and heat. A 1 time investment in good plastic boxes
- Dust off your figures regularly. Maybe once a week. You can use a regular duster or even the canned air that you would use with electronics. If you notice that they are really dirty, then you can clean them in soapy water.
Enjoy
Use these tips to take care of your action figure collection and you will be able to enjoy your collection for many years to come.
I’m planning to display my hot toys in a decalf… I’m a little worried about humidity, any tip to fight it?
If you are really worried about humidity in your house then you can look into a Dehumidifier. They are typically found at hardware or department stores.
I live in the Seattle area and I don’t worry about humidity (it’s pretty much raining everyday).