Whether you're an avid collector or just starting out, how you store and care for your Labubu dolls can dramatically affect their condition, longevity, and resale value. Proper care preserves the vibrant colours, protects packaging, and ensures that rare or limited-edition figures remain as collectible as the day you bought them. This guide walks you through best practices for cleaning, storing, and displaying your Labubu collection safely and effectively.
Why Care and Storage Matter
Labubu dolls — like many designer collectibles — are made from vinyl, plush, and various materials that can degrade over time if exposed to environmental hazards. Heat, humidity, direct sunlight, dust, and improper handling can all harm the doll or its packaging.
Collectors who store their dolls properly maintain both the aesthetic appeal and the long-term value of their collection. For sealed blind boxes or limited editions, packaging integrity is often as important as the figure itself.
Best Practices for Storing Labubu Dolls
Keep the Original Packaging
Whenever possible, retain the original box and materials. The original packaging helps preserve value and protects the figure from dust, light and damage.
Use Protective Wrapping and Containers
Wrap dolls (especially loose/opened ones) in tissue paper or soft cloth, and store inside sturdy boxes or plastic containers. For plush or vinyl figures, consider using breathable plastic sleeves or zip-lock bags to prevent dust and moisture accumulation.
Control Environmental Conditions
Store Labubu figures in a cool, dry place with stable temperature and humidity. Avoid placing them near radiators, windows, sunlight or damp — prolonged exposure can cause vinyl warping, fading, or material deterioration.
Avoid Direct Light and UV Exposure
Sunlight and strong artificial light can fade colours and degrade materials over time. Use display areas away from windows, or glass/display cases with UV-filter glass when possible.
Limit Handling & Maintain Cleanliness
Handle dolls with clean hands (or gloves if possible), especially for opened figures. Dust them gently with a soft cloth occasionally, but avoid cleaning chemicals that may damage paint or material.
Display & Storage Options for Different Collector Needs
Sealed-Box Collectors (Investment-Focused)
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Store in a dry, dark space (shelves, storage boxes).
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Avoid stacking heavy objects on top — flat stacking may stress packaging over time.
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Keep humidity low; avoid attics, damp basements or direct-sunlight windows.
Opened/Floor-Display Collectors
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Use glass cabinets or enclosed display cases to reduce dust exposure.
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Combine LED or soft ambient lighting (not direct) to highlight figures without risking UV damage.
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For plush or vinyl figures with detachable parts, consider gentle internal supports or stands to maintain shape.
Accessory-heavy Collections (charms, keychains, mini figures)
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Store smaller items in divided boxes with soft padding to avoid scratches.
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Keep small parts (chains, clasps) detached or secured to avoid damage.
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For wearable items (bag charms), rotate display and storage rather than constant exposure.
Long-Term Preservation Tips
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Periodically inspect stored dolls — check for dust, moisture, discoloration, or packaging wear.
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If storing away from home (e.g., self-storage or external unit), label boxes clearly, avoid tight packing, and maintain stable environment. Safestore+1
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Focus on documentation — keep purchase receipts, photos of packaging, and provenance details (for resale or collection insurance).
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For rare or limited-edition dolls, consider gentle climate-controlled storage (where possible) to protect vinyl/plush integrity over time.
Conclusion
Caring for your Labubu dolls isn’t just about shelf-style or aesthetic presentation — it’s vital to preserving condition, value, and longevity. Whether you keep them sealed in storage boxes, display them proudly, or rotate through accessories, applying proper care and storage practices will keep your collection looking and feeling as intended for years to come. A little effort today protects your collection’s future.