Wooden figurines add charm and craftsmanship to any space, but without proper care, they can lose their beauty over time. Whether you collect hand-carved wooden figurines for their artistic detail or sentimental value, maintaining them ensures they last for years. Since wood figurines are made from natural materials, they require special handling to prevent damage from moisture, heat, and dust.
TL;DR:
- Avoid water and moisture—do not wash your wooden figurines.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe gently and remove dust.
- Store in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or mold.
- Keep away from direct sunlight to avoid fading and surface cracks.
Now, let’s dive deeper into how to protect your carved wood figures and keep them looking their best.
1. Do Not Wash – Keep Water Away from Wood Figurines
One of the most common mistakes people make with wooden figurines is exposing them to water. Since wood is naturally porous, moisture can cause it to:
✅ Swell and lose its shape
✅ Develop cracks or splits over time
✅ Grow mold or discolor
💡 What to do instead? If your carved wood figures get dirty, use a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. If a stain occurs, lightly dampen a cloth with a small amount of wood-safe cleaner—never soak the figurine.
2. Wipe Gently – Avoid Scratching the Surface
Dust buildup can dull the finish of wood figurines, but cleaning them incorrectly can do more harm than good. Using rough materials or excessive force can scratch the surface, ruining their smooth texture.
Best ways to clean hand-carved wooden figurines:
✔️ Use a soft, dry cloth like microfiber for regular dusting.
✔️ A soft-bristled brush (such as a clean paintbrush) can reach intricate carved details.
✔️ Avoid paper towels or rough fabrics that might leave scratches.
Pro tip: For detailed wood figurine carving, compressed air (like the kind used for keyboards) can remove dust from hard-to-reach areas.
3. Store in Dry Places – Prevent Warping & Mold
Humidity is one of the biggest threats to wooden animal figurines. If stored in a damp area, they can warp, crack, or even develop mold over time.
🔹 Where to store your carved wood figurines?
✅ In a room with stable humidity (40-50% is ideal for wood).
✅ Inside a glass display case to protect from moisture.
✅ Wrapped in acid-free tissue paper when not in use.
❌ Avoid: Keeping them in basements, bathrooms, or kitchens where moisture levels fluctuate.
If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier to protect your wood art collection.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight – Protect from Fading & Cracking
Just like human skin, wooden figurines can suffer from too much sun exposure. Over time, UV rays can:
☀️ Fade natural wood colors and finishes
☀️ Cause dryness, leading to cracks and surface damage
☀️ Weaken protective coatings on hand-carved figurines
How to protect your unique carved wood figures from sun damage:
✔️ Display them away from direct sunlight (e.g., not right next to a window).
✔️ If displaying near a window, use UV-filtering glass or curtains.
✔️ Rotate your traditional wood figures occasionally so one side doesn’t fade faster than the other.
Bonus Tip: Apply a Light Wood Conditioner When Needed
Over time, high-quality wooden figurines may lose their shine. To maintain their beauty, use a small amount of natural wood oil or beeswax.
- Apply a tiny drop to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the figurine.
- Let it absorb for a few hours, then buff with a clean cloth.
- Avoid using commercial furniture polish, as it can leave a sticky residue.
Final Thoughts
With proper care, your best wooden figurines can last a lifetime. By following these simple steps—keeping them dry, dusting gently, storing in stable conditions, and protecting them from sunlight—you’ll preserve their artistry and craftsmanship for years.
Looking for more finely crafted hand-carved wooden figures? Shop our hand-carved figurines and find your next favorite piece today!