Caring for Your Lladró Collection: Essential Do’s & Don’ts
Owning a Lladró figurine is a joy, whether you’re an avid collector or simply cherish a single, meaningful piece. These handcrafted porcelain sculptures are delicate works of art, requiring proper care to maintain their beauty over time. From cleaning techniques to storage and repair advice, here’s how to keep your Lladró collection in pristine condition.
Cleaning Lladró Figurines Without Damage
One of the biggest concerns for collectors is keeping their Lladró figurines free of dust and dirt without causing damage. Regular cleaning is key, but it must be done with care:
Do’s:
✔ Use a soft brush – A clean, dry, and soft-bristled brush (such as a makeup or artist’s brush) is perfect for gently removing dust from delicate areas like lace details, flowers, or fine sculpting.
✔ Microfiber cloth for smooth surfaces – A microfiber cloth can be lightly used on smoother areas to remove fingerprints or dust buildup.
✔ Dust blower for hard-to-reach areas – If your piece has intricate detailing, a dust blower can help remove dust from crevices without direct contact.
Don’ts:
✖ Avoid water on matte or satin finishes – Some Lladró pieces, like the Bulldog With Lollipop Sculpture, feature delicate finishes that can be damaged by water or harsh cleaning solutions.
✖ Never use household cleaners – Abrasive cleaning products, alcohol-based sprays, or chemical cleaners can strip the glaze and cause discolouration.
Storing and Protecting Lladró from Dust, Sunlight & Humidity
Proper storage is essential to preserve the quality of your Lladró sculptures, especially if you live in an environment with fluctuating temperatures or humidity.
Do’s:
✔ Display behind glass – A glass-fronted cabinet or display case, such as those used for Lladró Nativity Figurines, helps keep dust and pollutants at bay while still allowing you to admire your collection.
✔ Control humidity levels – High humidity can weaken adhesives in certain figurines, while dry air may cause cracking. Aim for a stable humidity level between 40-50%.
✔ Keep out of direct sunlight – Sun exposure can cause colours to fade over time, so display your Lladró in a shaded area away from windows or UV light.
Don’ts:
✖ Avoid placing figurines near heat sources – Fireplaces, radiators, or direct airflow from vents can weaken the porcelain over time.
✖ Don’t overcrowd displays – Lladró pieces, like the intricate Flowers of the Season, have delicate petals and fine details that can break if knocked or too closely packed together.
Handling Repairs: What to Do If Lladró Gets Chipped or Broken
Accidents happen, and while Lladró porcelain is durable, it’s still fragile. If a piece chips or breaks, consider these steps:
Do’s:
✔ Keep the broken pieces – If a figurine breaks, collect and store all the fragments in a safe place. Small missing parts can sometimes be reattached.
✔ Seek professional restoration – Lladró restoration specialists can repair damage seamlessly, particularly for valuable or sentimental pieces.
✔ Use museum-grade adhesives – If professional repair isn’t an option, consider museum-grade porcelain adhesive for minor chips, ensuring it dries clear and doesn’t damage the surface.
Don’ts:
✖ Don’t use super glue – Household adhesives can cause discolouration and leave visible marks on delicate porcelain.
✖ Avoid DIY painting – Repainting a damaged Lladró figurine can devalue it and may not match the original craftsmanship.
For expert guidance, purchasing authentic pieces, or finding display options, explore Gallery Gifts Online, where you’ll find a wide selection of Lladró figurines and collectibles.
By following these care tips, your Lladró collection will remain beautiful and well-preserved for years to come.