To continue with methods to clean toys I have spent a great deal of time cleaning old bisque and porcelain dolls. I always thought the claim “smoke free house” was kinda goofy until I bought a large lot of vintage Penny Dolls on ebay only to find they had obviously been involved in a fire…way more than a smoker at home. I took the challenge on and spent hours cleaning the little jewels… had to avoid painted areas since Penny dolls usually did not have a second firing and color paint can wash off! BEWARE!
1. Wipe off anything you can with a DRY soft cloth to start.Start cleaning at the top and work down.
2. I usually first try a damp cotton rag to test dirt if this will remove go for it… just DAMP…keep turning rag to keep clean rag on porcelain.
3. Hand Lotion such as Jergens on a rag will take off a lot of grime just take care to keep out of wigs and joints. Use soft cloth and remove all residue from lotion. Never use abrasives!
4. Whitening toothpaste on a tough spot can work but test against glaze do not use abrasive cleaning.
5. Goo Gone a new modern cleaner will remove sticky or gummy dirt. Remove all residue after using.
NEVER submerse doll in tub of water, try not to get joints wet if possible and wrap wigs in tissue before going crazy!
Good Luck!
