Many people have found that collecting ceramic antique figurines can be a fun and even a rewarding hobby. But after you have started your collection there are some things that you should do to protect and preserve them as well kept antique figurines will gain value over time. If you store your figurines properly when they are not displayed, and clean them regularly, they will last a long time.



Storing and displaying

If you like to display your figurines (like most people do) you should invest in a cabinet that will allow them to be viewed and at the same time, protect them from any environment or elements that can cause them to ware.

You should make sure your figurines are displayed or stored in a cool, dry place and avoid extreme temperature changes. When storing, wrap them in bubble wrap. If you notice silvery shiny spots on your ceramic figurines, the cause may be the re-oxidation of metallic oxide paint. Excessive oxidation can be caused by storing your precious collectibles in a damp place or wrapping them in silk paper. If your figurines have already suffered from oxidation, you should take your figurine collection to a professional restorer and they will re-fire your figurine to its original appearance.

Cleaning Ceramic Antique Figurines

When you find that you need to clean your antique figurines, here are some suggestions for you to follow : If they just need to be dusted, you can blow the dust away or brush it away with a large paint brush. The benefit of using a brush is that dust and small particles can easily be removed from lines, where towels or cloths may not be able to reach.

If you feel your figurines need to be washed follow these steps:

You should clean your figurines over a soft surface in case they slip out of your hand.

Place the figurine on a flat surface, covered with a large towel or soft cloth.

Dip a soft cloth or a small brush into a solution of warm water and baby shampoo.

Wash the figurine to remove dirt and dust.

Use a soft toothbrush or cotton swab to reach little crevices.

Rinse the figurine carefully with a soft cloth dipped in warm water, be sure to cover the air hole so that water will not get inside the figurine.

If the figurine is very dirty you may need to repeat the process again.

You should Allow your figurines to air dry.