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Shopping for your first set of retail mannequins, or trying to figure out how to set them up in your store? In my series on dressing up a mannequin, I have shared a variety of mannequin dressing techniques and tips. In Part 1, I explained the steps for dressing a mannequin. In Part 2, I talked about how to choose a mannequin model and pick the right attire for display. In Part 3, I shared a variety of tips and tricks to help you achieve the right effect and protect your mannequin from damage.

In this part, I want to focus even more on taking care of your mannequin. You may not realize this if you have never purchased a mannequin before, but mannequins can actually be quite fragile. So the cleaning and maintenance of your mannequin does pose some challenges.

How to Clean a Mannequin
You will want to wash your mannequins routinely. A mannequin covered in dust or scuff marks is not going to make a good impression on shoppers.

It is important to be careful with this job, however. If you clean your mannequin too roughly, you may end up scratching it.

Start by removing all attire from your mannequin. Wash your own hands to make sure they are clean, and then go over your mannequin with a feather duster. After you have removed the surface level of dust, wash the mannequin with lukewarm water. Wait for it to dry out a bit, but not completely. When it is just a little damp, wipe it down with a warm washcloth. After that, dry it off with another washcloth. Make sure both the washcloths you use are soft and are not going to cause scratches.

If you have a stubborn stain, try using a paste made out of water mixed with baking soda. Scrub the stain with this mixture until it comes off. Alternately, you can try scrubbing the stain using toothpaste; this can also deliver great results.

What should you do with a stain that still won’t come off? At this point, you may be stuck painting over it—a job best left to professionals.

What about your mannequin’s hair? That depends on the type of hair it is. Natural fibers can be washed with normal shampoo. Other types of wigs may require different cleaning products; fabric softener may be a good choice for softening and detangling matted hair.

You now know how to clean and maintain mannequins for retail displays! If you take good care of your mannequins, they should stay in great condition for at least a couple of years. If you are particularly careful with them, you might be able to extend their lifetime even longer. When they do get too scratched and worn out to use, you can have them refurbished or you can purchase new ones. Well-dressed and maintained mannequins can bring your visual merchandising display ideas to life and drive sales throughout the year!