Keeping Quality Long-Term: A Practical Maintenance Schedule

A well-maintained companion doll lasts significantly longer than one that's cleaned carelessly or stored without thought. This isn't complicated — it's a few consistent habits that protect your investment.

After Each Use — The Basics

The non-negotiable routine after every use:

  1. Rinse with warm water. Not hot — hot water can affect TPE softness over time. Use a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap on interior cavities. Rinse thoroughly.
  2. Dry completely before storing. This is critical for TPE in particular, which is porous. Moisture trapped inside creates the conditions for bacterial growth. Use clean microfibre cloths and, if needed, a drying stick for internal areas. Air-dry for 30–60 minutes before putting the doll away.
  3. Dust with renewal powder. Both silicone and TPE benefit from a light dusting of cornstarch (not talcum powder — avoid talc) after drying. This restores the natural matte finish and prevents the surface becoming tacky.

Weekly — A Proper Clean

Once a week, regardless of frequency of use:

  • Check all internal cavities and clean with a dedicated antibacterial wash
  • Check the skeleton: are there any points of unusual resistance? Any sounds when you move joints? Minor stiffness is normal, but creaking can indicate the joint needs attention
  • Check the surface: any new marks, discolouration, or stickiness? Yellowing on TPE sometimes indicates the need for a mineral oil treatment (see below)

Monthly — TPE Conditioning

TPE requires mineral oil conditioning approximately once a month. TPE's softness comes partly from oil content within the material — over time this evaporates, and the surface can become dryer, stiffer, and more prone to tearing.

Apply a small amount of mineral oil (pharmaceutical grade, fragrance-free) to a clean cloth and gently work it into the surface. Leave for 30 minutes, then wipe away the excess. The difference in feel is noticeable immediately — the surface softens and regains elasticity.

Silicone does not require oil conditioning. Do not use mineral oil on silicone — it has no effect and can attract dust.

Storage — Getting It Right

Incorrect storage is the most common cause of long-term damage:

  • Never store compressed: A companion in a tight space, pushed against a wall, or folded at unnatural angles will develop permanent pressure marks and stress in the material. These cannot be repaired.
  • Temperature matters: Store away from direct sunlight and heat sources. UV exposure and heat accelerate yellowing in TPE and can soften silicone unevenly. A wardrobe in a room-temperature environment is ideal.
  • Hanging position: If using hanging storage hooks, ensure the hook is rated for the weight and the hanging point on the doll is properly reinforced. Check occasionally that the hanging point isn't showing wear.
  • Lying flat: Acceptable for shorter storage periods. Place the doll on a clean, soft surface — not directly on a hard floor. Avoid storing face-down without a cushion under the face.

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

Minor surface marks and scuffs on TPE can sometimes be reduced using a heat gun or hair dryer on low heat — the gentle warmth allows the material to relax slightly. This works for light surface marks only and should be done cautiously.

Joint stiffness: a small amount of silicone lubricant (not WD-40, not petroleum-based lubricant) applied at the joint can restore movement. Follow the care guide for your specific skeleton type.

If you have a manufacturing defect or something that doesn't look right — contact us. Our warranty covers defects in materials and construction for 12 months from delivery, and we coordinate warranty claims directly with the studio.

Full cleaning and care detail is in our care guide. Questions? Contact us directly.

Back to blog