Most of us love our dolls like they’re our own family, so it’s no wonder we try to take care of them like they are! We can all use a refresher on the best way to care for these artfully crafted treasures. After all, we want them to last us a lifetime!

Always keep in mind that dolls are big in the secondary market, therefore before doing anything else, remember that saving your dolls’ packaging, inserts and certificates can add value to their lifetime. A lower resale value is often the result of not having the original packaging.

So without further adieu, here are our “Paradise Approved” top 7 tips for taking care of your doll!

1. Dolls should be stored out of direct sunlight in a cool and dry place. Remember to check them from time to time to ensure that there aren’t issues with temperature, dampness, insects or cramped spacing.
2. Permanent damage can occur if you try and take your doll for a “swim”! Avoid submerging a collectible doll in water.
3. Use a soft cloth and distilled water without soap, beach or chlorine products for day to day cleaning of both vinyl and porcelain dolls.
4. A gentle vacuum can be used to vacuum cloth dolls through a layer of netting. Keep in mind that silk should never be vacuumed.
5. To keep dyes from bleeding over time you can always add a layer of acid free tissue between the dolls clothes and their body.
6. The quickest way to ruin a dolls hair is by washing it; it will become matted and unmanageable.
7. Golden rule: Since high quality collectible doll hair is made from synthetic materials, using heated products such as blow dryers, curling irons or flat irons may cause damage to the hair and vinyl. Air drying is always the best option!

Tell us in the comments if you have any “tips” that have worked for you!