01 / DRESSING & DYE TRANSFER

Dress Safely from the Start

Most styling problems are easier to prevent than repair. A few checks before dressing—and gentler handling while dressing—protect both the surface and the finish.

Manufacturer guidance comes first

TPE and silicone formulas vary. Use this page as general styling-care guidance and always follow the instructions supplied by your doll manufacturer.

Before You Dress

  1. Confirm the material. Know whether the doll is TPE, silicone, or another material and read its care instructions.
  2. Inspect the item. Check for strong dye, rough seams, sharp fasteners, exposed wire, and tight elastic.
  3. Wash and dry. Wash new garments according to their labels and let them dry completely.
  4. Test when unsure. Test higher-risk fabrics on a material sample or an inconspicuous area approved by the manufacturer.

Dress and Undress Gently

  • Support limbs near the joint and open fasteners fully before moving clothing over the body.
  • Cover hook-and-loop tape, zip teeth, and metal edges while dressing.
  • Keep exposed wire and sharp clasps away from the surface.
  • Avoid force around fingers, toes, and tight joints.
  • Avoid leaving tight straps, waistbands, garters, or shoe edges in place for long periods.
  • After styling, inspect the neck, shoulders, waist, wrists, thighs, ankles, and feet.

DARK FABRICS NEED EXTRA CARE

Prevent Dye Transfer

Black, red, navy, denim, prints, dark lining, elastic, wig caps, and faux leather can transfer color. TPE is often more vulnerable, but silicone can also stain.

Prepare

Pre-wash new garments and make sure both the clothing and doll are completely dry.

Create a Barrier

Use a light-colored liner or compatible bodystocking where the manufacturer permits it.

Limit Contact

Check contact points often and avoid leaving untested dark items on the doll for extended periods.

If color transfer appears

Remove the item promptly and follow the doll manufacturer’s instructions. Do not improvise with bleach, acetone, alcohol, abrasive sponges, strong solvents, or heat.

02 / WIGS, SHOES & ACCESSORIES

Protect Every Contact Surface

Wigs and accessories can create pressure, friction, scratches, or dye transfer. Treat anything touching the doll as part of the care routine.

Wigs & Hairpieces

Check the cap: inspect dark fabric, combs, rough edges, and clips. Confirm any light wig cap is compatible with the doll.

Clean gently: detangle from the ends upward. For synthetic wigs, use cool water and wig-safe products. Avoid heat unless specifically permitted.

Store separately: keep wigs clean and dry on a stand or in a breathable bag, away from sunlight and heat. Remove dark caps for long-term storage.

Shoes

Check seams, staples, hard edges, fit, and dark lining before putting shoes on the doll.

  • Use socks or a light barrier where appropriate.
  • Never force shoes that are too small.
  • Check ankles and feet after the styling session.

Jewellery & Props

Metal can scratch, compress, discolor, or react with the surface. Remove tight or heavy pieces before storage.

Also check bags, belts, props, and furniture for sharp edges, pressure points, and possible dye transfer.

03 / AFTER STYLING & STORAGE

Finish the Look with a Care Check

A styling session is not finished when the photos are done. Removing the outfit, checking contact areas, and storing each piece correctly helps prevent small issues from becoming permanent ones.

After Each Styling Session

  • Remove the outfit when practical and inspect high-contact areas.
  • Use a clean, soft cloth for loose dust.
  • Use only cleaning methods and products approved by the doll manufacturer.
  • Let the doll dry completely before redressing or covering.

Between Looks

The doll: remove dark or tight clothing and use a neutral, supported position according to manufacturer guidance.

The environment: avoid direct sunlight, excessive heat, damp conditions, sharp objects, pets, and prolonged contact with unknown plastics or dyed materials.

The wardrobe: store garments clean and dry, wigs separately, and jewellery closed or wrapped so sharp parts cannot catch.

If you find a problem

If you notice staining, tearing, tackiness, a surface change, or joint damage, stop experimenting. Photograph the issue and contact the seller or manufacturer for material-specific treatment or repair guidance.

04 / QUICK CARE CHECKLIST

Before and After Every Look

Use this as a fast final check when you style, photograph, redress, or store your doll.

Before

  • Material confirmed
  • Garment washed and completely dry
  • Dark fabric tested when needed
  • Sharp edges and tight elastic checked
  • Light barrier ready if appropriate

After

  • Outfit removed where practical
  • Contact areas inspected
  • Doll and garments fully dry
  • Wig and accessories stored separately
  • Any issue photographed

NEED HELP?

Unsure About an Item?

Send the product link or photos together with your doll’s brand, material, body model, and measurements. For material-specific treatment or repair, consult the doll manufacturer first.

Ask Your Doll Stylist