The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your Funko POP! Figures

Nerdacity Feb 23, 2024
309 People Read
Yamcha Funko POP!
Table of Contents
  1. How to Handle Funko POP! Figures
  2. How to Protect and Display Funko POP! Figures
  3. Funko POP! Cleaning Techniques
  4. UV Protection
  5. Temperature and Humidity
  6. How to Store Funko POP! Figures
  7. Final Thoughts
  8. Related Articles

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases... Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to us at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. 

Funko POP! figures have become one of the most sought after collectibles for enthusiasts of all ages, and it's not difficult to see why. Covering almost all genres of 'POP!-culture' from film and TV to books, games and musicians. Whether you're an avid collector or just starting your Funko POP! journey, taking care of these figures is crucial to maintaining their value over time. By following these simple tips, you can ensure the preservation of your POP! collection.

Before we go any further... The golden rule of POP! collecting is to never remove them from their box! This is especially true if you've managed to source a limited edition rarity, however this article will cover some tips for those of you who can't help yourselves! Storing your Funko POP! figures in their original boxes or better yet, in their boxes within protective cases (more later), will provide an extra layer of defence against scratches, dents and general damage, ensuring their resale value stays at maximum (should you ever wish to sell). Just look at what happened to poor Yamcha when he was removed from his box...

How to Handle Funko POP! Figures

Handling your Funko POP!s with care can prevent accidental damage or wear over time:

  • Wash Your Hands: Before touching your POP!s, wash your hands with a light soap to prevent transferring oils, dirt, or moisture onto the figures.

  • Hold the Base: When handling POP!s, grasp them by the base of the box, or if you must unbox them, the body rather than the head (Applying pressure to the head can cause it to detach or become loose).

How to Protect and Display Funko POP! Figures

If you're lucky enough to be allowed to display your figures, consider using display cases or shelves to safeguard them from accidental falls or 'mishandling' by pets, children etc.

Choosing the right display method is crucial for protecting your POP! collection from dust, sunlight, and physical damage. Consider these options:

  • Transparent Funko POP! Cases / ProtectorsCheaply available on Amazon in packs of 10, they provide an added layer of protection for those fragile boxes and window-panes, but ensure they're the acid-free variety.

  • Hard-StacksMore expensive than the more flimsy transparent cases by approximately 10-fold, unless you're buying in bulk, but made of a much thicker and rigid plastic, which also allows you to stack your POP!s worry free.

  • Grading: Grading services are also available for Funko POP! figures, which encapsulate a figure in a transparent hard plastic case with a tamper-evident seal, effectively acting like a sealed hard-stack. This similarly ensures that the contained figure is protected from scratches, scuffs, tears, dents, low-height falls etc. For more information on POP! grading visit our step-by-step guide.

Luffy Funko POP! Graded

  • Shelves and Display Cases: Can be combined with one of the previous options. Invest in sturdy shelves or a display case to keep your POP!s organized and shielded from dust and prying fingers. IKEA's Detolf cabinets are popular among collectors, offering ample space.


Funko POP! Cleaning Techniques

Regular cleaning helps maintain the appearance of your Funko POP!s and reduces the need for a more rigorous routine in the future:

  • Dusting: Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a gentle brush (such as a fine paintbrush) to remove dust from the figures and their displays. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch any plastic or cardboard surfaces.

  • Avoid Liquid Cleaners: Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents, as they will more than likely damage the paint, print and overall appearance of your collection!


UV Protection

Keep your figures away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading and discolouration over time (even whilst stored safely within their boxes):

  • Display Away from Windows: or intense artificial light sources to prevent fading and discolouration.

  • Rotate Displays: If possible, rotate the positions of your figures periodically to even-out exposure to light.


Temperature and Humidity

Maintaining the right environment is essential for preventing damage due to temperature or humidity changes:

  • Stable Conditions: Avoid placing your collection in an area prone to extreme temperature fluctuations, such as attics, basements or cellars.

  • Climate Control: If you live in an area with high humidity or issues with damp, consider using a dehumidifier to maintain optimal conditions.


How to Store Funko POP! Figures

Finally, if you ever need to store some or all of your figures safely:

  • Original Boxes: Keep all original boxes and packaging, as they offer the best protection for storage and transport. POP!s ordered online through quality sellers, usually come in a perfectly sized cardboard box to keep them safe in transit, which double up as great at-home storage!

  • Sealed Containers: If storing your POP!s outside of their boxes, use a packing material such as bubble-wrap to stop the figures damaging each other, as well as sealed containers to protect them from dust and potential damage.


Final Thoughts

By following these 6 tips, you'll ensure that your Funko POP! collection remains pristine and at its maximum potential value for many years to come... Have more questions? Find the answers in our Funko POP! FAQ or our 10 Essential Tips for Funko POP! Collecting (and Investing).

Unsure which is the best pop-culture collectible for you? See our 'LEGO BrickHeadz vs Funko POP! Figures' article to help you make up your mind!

Related Articles

Table of Contents
  1. How to Handle Funko POP! Figures
  2. How to Protect and Display Funko POP! Figures
  3. Funko POP! Cleaning Techniques
  4. UV Protection
  5. Temperature and Humidity
  6. How to Store Funko POP! Figures
  7. Final Thoughts
  8. Related Articles

Disclosure:  As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases... Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to us at no cost to you if you decide to purchase.