A Beginner’s Guide to Collecting Action Figures

Action figure collecting is the art of finding just the right model or figurine that accurately reflects your love for a favorite pastime, encapsulates your favorite character, and — we’ll admit it — can fit in your dwindling storage space. (And yes, sometimes collecting can take restraint). This article can help serve as a guide for how to collect quality action figures, how to clean your action figures, and how to display them in a way that allows them look their best. Read on!

Selecting Your Action Figures

We can all think of the fun times that we may have gotten on a whim. But when it comes to action figures, the collector must think more strategically about bringing new decorative pieces, and this is where collecting action figures becomes a hobby! Here are some things to keep in mind for how to boost your action figure collection:

Consider Theme and Style

That desk space or shelf is an empty canvas — so what story is it going to tell? Is there a particular anime series that has caught your attention? Do you prefer going with a shared universe, like Disney or Sanrio? Or, do you want to display more of a theme, such as villain appreciation, a favorite animal, a type of Pokemon, or sci-fi with mech suits? Maybe a “chibi” or adorably cute vibe? Deciding your theme can help you narrow down your options! 

In addition, selecting a theme for your collection is also a great way to help you play with the layout, including if you add additional props or artwork to enhance your collection’s “story.”

Consider Brand

With theme and style, you will likely also be thinking about brands, as each company focuses on different qualities of action figures, such as poseability, detail, and art forms. 

Fortunately, Plaza Japan is the hub for so many authentic, well-loved, and quality Japanese brands, so you’re sure to find a design that speaks to you!

How to Clean Your Action Figures

Now that you are on your way to successfully collecting your action figures, it’s time to think about how to keep them looking like they are in mint condition!

First, remember that if you have the original packaging with directions on how to clean your action figure, then use those first! Otherwise, keep in mind that less is more. No matter how tough your action figure is in “real life,” treat your action figures gently! Using soft materials and the least abrasive cleaning supplies possible is key. If you need to do light scrubbing, consider using:

• Soft, microfiber cloths (minimizes scratching) 
• Cotton swabs 
• Compressed air
• Soft-bristled toothbrushes

You do not always need to use liquids. In some cases, even mild soaps or other materials can wreck paint or corrode delicate metals. It’s best to err on the side of caution. Stick mainly to warm water or, in some cases, water with mild dish soap.

After wetting and brushing the action figure, you can let the figurine dry off naturally, or, if your action is more sturdily built, use a hair dryer on a low, cool setting.

Displaying Your Action Figures

Like with most things, prevention is always key, and that applies to how to keep your action figures clean and in good condition! While stands can be fun ways to prop up an action figure that you want to be able to move around or pose frequently, investing in clear plastic trophy cases is an excellent way to avoid dust or dirt getting in, especially if your form of action figure collecting is meant more for display purposes only. 

Also, keep in mind the position of sunlight. Because not all windows have UV protection, it’s important to remember that the sun’s rays can damage your collectibles. Make sure that your action figures stay out of direct sunlight and away from other elements, such as heat or humidity.

For more ideas on how to have fun with those displays, read more here!

Have Fun!

Remember: action figure collecting is a hobby! Some action figure collectors are looking for the rare finds — the first of their kind, the limited releases, the figurines made with the highest quality materials, etc. This is a commendable undertaking, but it can’t always be easy to predict what will be “worth something” to anyone but you someday! 

With that in mind, it’s important to remember that what matters most in action figure collecting is that you are happy with your collection. The value you place on your collection because of what it means to you is still what matters most for your hobby than anything else. If your hobby helps tell a story and brings you joy, then welcome to the world of action figure collecting. Enjoy!

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