How to clean and maintain TPE physical dolls

Taking care of physical dolls is very important, and a carefully cared for doll can be used for many years. To this end, the editor has summarized some precautions for taking care of physical dolls. At the same time, because there are many people who purchase TPE physical dolls, this guide will specifically focus on TPE physical dolls.

Clothing:

1. Clothes should be washed clean before wearing

Newly purchased clothes may have a risk of dyeing, so it is necessary to wash the doll's clothes multiple times after purchase to remove the surface dye from the fabric.

It should be noted that all materials of clothing are different. Some clothes may still stain the doll after washing, so it is best to test it on the doll for a short period of time or on TPE samples.

2. Avoid dark colored clothing

Even if dark clothes have been washed, there is still a possibility of dyeing, so it is best to completely avoid dark clothes. However, if necessary, limit the time to wear dark clothes. Red and blue clothes are the most common colors to fade, so try not to choose these two colors.

3. Avoid tight fitting clothes

Tight clothing can leave dents and marks on the doll's body, so it's best not to wear it. If necessary, limit the time of wearing.

Lubricating oil:

Water based lubricants are the most recommended and safe lubricants, and oil-based lubricants may cause damage to materials. The use of silicone lubricants should be completely avoided.

Some friends suggest using petroleum jelly and mineral oil as lubricants. Vaseline is a great lubricant because mold and bacteria cannot grow in it. Although this is not recommended by doll manufacturers, many children trust it very much.

Cleaning:

TPE physical dolls are easy to clean and can be cleaned with diluted antibacterial/alkaline soap and water or specialized cleaning agents. At the same time, avoid using bleach, use alcohol, hot water, etc. for direct cleaning, as these solvents can cause damage to the TPE material. For minor stains, gently wipe with a damp soft cloth.

In addition, if it is a split type doll, remove the split part and use a cleaning washer, spray bottle, or shower head to clean the inside with soap and water, and drain any remaining water stains to dry.

Color removal:

Because TPE materials are porous, they are prone to staining or surface fouling. Most stains will eventually dissipate on their own, but it is recommended to remove them as soon as they appear.

White oil massage can treat mild stains, while vaseline can help remove deeper stains. Many people have successfully used benzoyl peroxide acne cream (for acne removal) to remove stains. Let the ointment cover the contaminated area for a few hours, then wipe it off. I have also heard of people using toothpaste as a substitute. But these two types of creams may dirty the doll, so caution should still be taken.

Another trick that is usually not recommended is to use clean, odorless paint solvents or odorless mineral alcohol to remove stubborn stains. This method is not recommended unless it is a last resort as it may harm the doll's body.

dry:

After cleaning the doll, it is necessary to ensure that it is thoroughly dry to prevent mold deformation. You can dry it with a soft cloth and place a fan (do not use a hair dryer) in damp areas such as the mouth and lower body to let it air dry. Expose these places to the outside until they are completely dry.

Many people suggest using an air pump for drying, as it is made of TPE material and requires a lot of time and effort to completely dry. Some places can also be wiped with sanitary tampons or rolled up tissues.

Storage:

Place the doll in a cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight. In addition, avoid hard surfaces as they can flatten the doll. It is best to place the doll in a standing, vertical position, ensuring that no joints are bent.

For short-term storage, it is recommended to place the doll on the surface of foam cotton. The manufacturer will place the doll in the packing box when it leaves the factory. It is best not to keep the doll in one position for too long. Changing the doll's position or position frequently can prevent it from becoming flattened. The split type needs to be disassembled and stored separately. Some friends will make the dolls stand up (if they have standing feet) and then store them against a wall with a cushion. Personally, I don't think this is a good long-term storage method because it will weaken the doll's knee joints.

Maintenance:

It is recommended to regularly apply white oil and talcum powder to the doll to extend its lifespan. If you notice that the doll doesn't feel soft enough, you can apply some white oil. The general process is to first wash the doll clean, wipe it dry, wait for the doll to completely dry, massage and oil it, and then wait for the oil to be completely absorbed, sprinkle talcum powder or talcum powder on the doll's body. Some people suggest powder the doll at least once a month and oil it every few months, but in reality, it also depends on the number of times the doll is used.

Why apply oil and powder to the doll? Over time, TPE materials will naturally leak oil, and oiling the doll will help replenish it. TPE materials also become sticky over time, especially after cleaning, so powder can help smooth the skin and prevent dolls from becoming sticky dust tools.



--Reprinted from the public account: Entity doll combat experience