Care & Use Guidelines
Many of the items offered at Heidi’s Favorite Things are vintage, handcrafted, or collectible in nature. Thoughtful care helps preserve their condition, appearance, and long-term enjoyment. The guidance below reflects commonly accepted practices used by collectors and institutions when caring for similar objects.
These are general recommendations. Individual items may have specific considerations, and we encourage questions whenever additional clarity is helpful.
General Handling
Handle items gently and with clean, dry hands.
Avoid lifting objects by delicate elements such as handles, rims, limbs, or decorative details.
When moving items, support them from the base whenever possible.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Use mild soap and warm water for cleaning unless an item is clearly marked otherwise.
Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals.
Dry thoroughly before storing or displaying.
For decorative objects, regular dusting with a soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient.
Ceramics, Pottery & Porcelain
Hand washing is generally recommended unless an item is clearly labeled as dishwasher safe.
Avoid sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking or crazing.
Vintage ceramics may not be microwave, oven, or dishwasher safe.
If used for food or beverages, discretion is advised, particularly with acidic foods or very hot liquids.
Glass & Crystal
Hand washing is recommended to prevent etching or chipping.
Avoid extreme temperature changes.
Take care when stacking or storing to prevent contact damage.
Figurines, Sculptures & Decorative Objects
Intended primarily for display.
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, heat sources, or moisture.
Dust gently using a soft, dry cloth.
Display on stable surfaces away from high-traffic areas.
Dolls & Mixed-Media Figures
Display away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of textiles and painted surfaces.
Avoid excessive handling, which can stress joints, fabrics, or adhesives.
Store accessories, tags, or removable elements separately when not on display.
Many of the dolls and figures we offer are collectible or artist-made pieces intended primarily for display. While they may resemble play dolls, they are not designed for use by children and may include delicate materials, small components, or construction methods intended for visual presentation rather than play.
To preserve condition and ensure longevity, these items are best displayed or handled gently as decorative or collectible objects.
Books & Paper-Based Items
Store and display books in dry, stable environments.
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or humidity.
Signed, limited, or sealed editions may be displayed while remaining in protective wrapping when appropriate.
When removing items from original wrapping, retain all materials for future preservation.
Functional Use vs. Decorative Use
Some items may be suitable for light functional use, while others are best enjoyed as decorative or display pieces.
Because many items are vintage or artisan-made, they may not meet modern manufacturing standards for food safety, heat resistance, or repeated mechanical stress. When long-term preservation is a priority, decorative use is often the safest option.
If you have questions about the intended or appropriate use of a specific item, please feel free to contact us.
Original Packaging & Preservation
For many collectible items, original packaging—including boxes, inserts, certificates, or factory wrapping—is often considered part of the overall completeness of the piece.
Collectors may choose to remove items from their packaging for display or enjoyment. When doing so, it is generally recommended that all original packaging materials be retained and stored safely, as separation from packaging can affect long-term collectibility for some items.
Packaging should be kept flat, dry, and protected from damage whenever possible.
Storage & Display Considerations
Use stable shelving appropriate for the weight of the object.
Avoid overcrowding shelves or display cases.
Protect items from excessive humidity, temperature fluctuations, and environmental exposure.
For heavier or taller objects, ensure proper balance and support.
Transport & Long-Term Care
Retain original packaging when available, as it often provides the best protection during future moves.
When repacking items, use appropriate padding and avoid direct contact between objects.
Periodically inspect displayed items for signs of environmental stress.
When in Doubt
Care and use considerations can vary by material, age, and construction. If you have questions about a specific item, its care, or its intended use, we encourage you to contact us. We are happy to share what we know and help you make informed decisions.
Thoughtful care helps ensure these pieces can be enjoyed, preserved, and appreciated over time.