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How to Preserve Dolls Made of Cotton

A collection of cotton dolls can be easily preserved with tender care. The most important factors in maintaining a doll's good condition are to keep it dry, clean and out of direct sunlight. Always spot test a cleaning method on a hidden part of the doll. This rule applies even if the method is recommended by an expert. Sometimes even the gentlest home cleaning method is too abrasive for delicate cotton; in this case, you may need to contact a doll restoration specialist.

Things You'll Need

Hairspray
White cloth
Cleaning putty
Vacuum cleaner
Nylon screen
Scissors
Pantyhose
Moth crystals
Display case

Instructions

- 1
  Spray hairspray onto a clean white cloth. Spot test the hairspray on a hidden area of the doll to ensure that it will not damage the cloth. Remove ink spots by dabbing with the sprayed cloth until it comes out.
- 2
  Knead a small amount of cleaning putty in your hand. Lightly rub the cotton with the cleaning putty to remove dirt and dust from your doll. Rub in only one direction. Reknead to freshen the putty.
- 3
  Place a nylon screen over your doll and vacuum well. The screen protects the cotton fibers from breaking down.
- 4
  Inspect your doll for insects on a regular basis. To prevent moths, place a small amount of moth crystals in the toe cut from a pair of pantyhose. Knot the top to prevent crystals from falling out. Hide it under a doll's hat or dress.
- 5
  Store your dolls in a display case located out of direct sunlight or in an air-tight, water-tight plastic tub. If you use a tub, put dehumidifying pellets in with the dolls but do not let the pellets touch the fabric.
- 6
  Contact a doll restoration specialist if your doll is especially dirty and needs more intensive cleaning than you can do at home.

Collecting Vintage Toys