Squishmallows

How to Clean and Display Your Action Figures: Tips for Keeping AEW and Fortnite Figures Mint

How to Clean and Display Your Action Figures: Tips for Keeping AEW and Fortnite Figures Mint

By Squishmallows | Published: 2026-07-05

Category: How-to Guides

Learn expert tips for cleaning and displaying action figures, including AEW and Fortnite figures. Keep your collectibles mint with proper care and storage.

Action figures are more than just toys—they're collectibles that can hold sentimental and monetary value. Whether you're a fan of AEW wrestling, Fortnite, or other popular franchises, keeping your figures in mint condition requires proper cleaning and display techniques. Dust, sunlight, and handling can all degrade your figures over time, but with the right care, you can preserve them for years to come.

In this guide, we'll cover the best practices for cleaning and displaying action figures, from dusting techniques to choosing the right display case. We'll also highlight some must-have figures, like the Five Nights at Freddy’s Classic Foxy Office Set - 5-Inch Articulated Figure, that deserve a spot in your collection.

Five Nights at Freddy’s Classic Foxy Office Set - 5-Inch Articulated Figure
Five Nights at Freddy’s Classic Foxy Office Set - 5-Inch Articulated Figure

Why Proper Care Matters for Action Figures

Action figures are often made of plastic, vinyl, or resin, materials that can be sensitive to environmental factors. UV rays can cause fading, while dust and dirt can scratch surfaces or clog joints. For collectors who invest in figures from lines like AEW or Fortnite, maintaining mint condition is key to preserving value and aesthetics.

Even if you don't plan to resell, a clean, well-displayed figure looks better and lasts longer. Simple habits like washing hands before handling, avoiding direct sunlight, and using proper cleaning tools can make a huge difference.

  • Always wash your hands before handling figures to avoid transferring oils and dirt.
  • Keep figures away from windows or use UV-filtering glass in display cases.
  • Rotate figures periodically to prevent uneven fading or dust buildup.

How to Clean Action Figures Safely

Cleaning action figures requires a gentle touch. Start by dusting with a soft, dry microfiber cloth or a makeup brush to remove loose particles. For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap—never soak the figure. Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol or acetone, which can damage paint or plastic.

For figures with intricate details, like the Five Nights at Freddy’s Classic Foxy Office Set - 5-Inch Articulated Figure, use a cotton swab dipped in water to reach crevices. Dry immediately with a lint-free cloth. If joints feel sticky, a tiny drop of silicone-based lubricant can help, but test on a hidden area first.

  • Use distilled water to avoid mineral deposits on figures.
  • For sticky residue from price tags, use a dab of baby oil or Goo Gone, then rinse gently.
  • Never use abrasive sponges or paper towels—they can scratch.

Displaying Your Collection: Best Practices

Displaying action figures is half the fun, but it's also where damage can occur. Choose a display case with glass doors to keep dust out—IKEA's Detolf is a popular choice. Use acrylic risers to create tiers so every figure is visible. Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to accidental knocks or scratches.

Lighting matters too. Use LED strips with a neutral color temperature (around 4000K) to avoid yellowing or heat damage. For figures like the Adopt Me! 14-Inch Sir Woofington, which has a larger size, ensure your shelves have enough depth and height to accommodate them without leaning.

Adopt Me! 14-Inch Sir Woofington
Adopt Me! 14-Inch Sir Woofington
  • Position figures away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • Use museum putty or clear stands to keep figures upright, especially for articulated ones.
  • Label your shelves or use a digital catalog app to track your collection.

Special Care for Articulated and Deluxe Figures

Articulated figures, like those from the Five Nights at Freddy's line, have moving parts that require extra attention. Dust can get trapped in joints, so use a compressed air duster (like for keyboards) to blow out debris. For figures with cloth or soft parts, spot-clean with a damp cloth and air-dry completely.

For larger or plush-adjacent figures, such as the Adopt Me! 14-Inch Sir Woofington, follow the manufacturer's instructions—some can be surface-washed, while others need professional cleaning. Always check the tag or packaging for care symbols.

  • Avoid posing articulated figures in extreme positions for long periods to prevent joint strain.
  • Store extra hands, accessories, or weapons in labeled ziplock bags inside a drawer.
  • Use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) for textured surfaces or fur.

Long-Term Storage and Preservation

If you need to store figures for a while, keep them in a cool, dry place away from basements or attics. Use acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to protect them in boxes. For figures in original packaging, store them upright to avoid crushing the box. Silica gel packets can help control humidity.

Consider rotating your display every few months to share the love among your collection. This also gives you a chance to inspect each figure for any signs of wear or damage. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your figures mint.

  • Avoid storing figures in plastic bags directly—they can trap moisture.
  • If you have many figures, use stacking storage bins with dividers.
  • Keep a spreadsheet or app to track condition, purchase date, and value.

Caring for your action figures doesn't have to be complicated. With regular dusting, smart display choices, and a few simple tools, you can keep your AEW, Fortnite, and other collectibles looking mint for years. Whether you're displaying a prized Five Nights at Freddy’s Classic Foxy Office Set - 5-Inch Articulated Figure or a cuddly Adopt Me! 14-Inch Sir Woofington, proper maintenance ensures they stay in top condition. Ready to expand your collection? Check out our full range of action figures and accessories to find your next treasure.

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