Pick up & store

A full-size doll is heavy. Our TPE dolls of 140 to 149 cm typically weigh around 27 kg, and those of 160 to 169 cm around 37 kg. Ask someone to help if you need to.

Cover your doll with a blanket or throw first, which makes moving it across a bed or in and out of storage easier. Slip mittens and socks over its hands and feet to protect them.

Lift and carry your doll by the torso rather than by the arms, legs or neck, and keep it close to the centre of your body so you don't strain your arms or back. Stand behind your doll and lift from the waist or under the arms.

If your doll is sitting on a bed or chair, bend its knees and lift it from the thighs, keeping it close to the centre of your body. To carry your doll sitting up, bend its legs to 90° first.

Lay your doll flat on a bed with its legs slightly apart and its feet at 90°, so the soles sit flat once it's upright. Check that the hip, knee and ankle joints are firm enough to hold it. Then put your arms around its waist and lift it slowly into a standing pose.

Always lean your doll against something, such as a wall, table or door, especially if the joints feel loose.

The metal skeleton lets your doll move into most positions, but don't leave the joints bent the same way for long, because that can make the TPE tear.

Bend the fingers gently and never pull them.

Make sure your doll is completely dry first. Store it lying flat on a soft surface, or hanging, but only if its skeleton and hanging kit are designed for it. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heaters. Avoid leaving weight on one spot, such as a hand trapped under the body, because TPE can crease or dent.

A clean cotton sheet keeps the dust off. For a TPE doll, re-powder every few weeks while it's stored. If your doll has implanted hair, comb it gently and keep it dry.