Mannequin Maintenance & Care Best Practices

July 01, 2016 3 min read

Mannequins offer your store the ideal displaying solution, at least when it comes to apparel and accessories. They also help create some of the most amazing window displays. While they are indeed fantastic and beautiful, these plastic beings need some care and maintenance as well.

We want to help you out in this sense and offer a comprehensive yet short guide on this issue, so your mannequins will be gorgeous forever.

If you were looking for specific instructions on how to repair your mannequin, check out our How To Restore A Vintage Mannequin article. The advice you find in this guide is also applicable to new and damaged mannequins as well.

Unpacking Your Mannequin

When you first receive your mannequin, we know how overwhelming the excitement can be, but remember to be careful. Handle the torso and all the other body parts with great care. Be sure to have clean hands and we also recommend that you remove any jewelry you might have that can cause scratches, dents and so on.

The scratches from rings or bracelets can be cleaned or painted over, but why not spare yourself some extra work? You can also consider wearing gloves when handling any mannequin, because the last thing you would want is to damage or stain extremely visible areas such as the neck, the thighs, arms and torsos. Latex gloves are very cheap and very effective with handling any body part because they adhere to the fiberglass surface of the mannequin.

Make sure that you follow assembly instructions precisely, while ensuring that you not force limbs into their sockets, ask someone to help you out. Also avoid using tapes of any kinds, because they can chip the paint off when you try to remove it. As previously stated, try to handle any mannequin with care and a lot of attention, be patient and you will spare yourself extra repair costs and hassle.

Dressing and Undressing

While dressing and undressing your mannequin, the same care rules apply as above. But consider this also, when removing a body part, make sure to set it on a soft surface, a cloth, a towel or something similar. It again ensures that no damage whatsoever comes to your mannequin. Just remember no rings, or bracelets, clean hands and don't drop anything.

When you dress the mannequin, watch out for buckles, jewelry, zippers and snaps, because they can all scratch the surface or finish of the mannequin.

Heads and Wigs

When dressing or undressing a mannequin you have to think about the head and hair, if it is detachable then your job is much easier, but if it is not you have to be very careful. Why you ask? It is simpler to wash and care for just the head, rather than handling the full torso around the store or in closed spaces.

Wigs have to be maintained and styled on a regular basis, but the advantage is that they are removable so it is considerably easier.

In most cases, the head of the mannequin is the first to deteriorate, because it is handled more often. If you can't repair it in any way, we offer you the perfect solution. We now sell mannequin heads to ensure that you are covered in such situations.

If you wish to find out how exactly you can clean your mannequin's hair then check out the video below.

Heat Deformation & Discoloration

While mannequins can withstand a lot of things, keep in mind that they are not actually indestructible. Too much exposure to sunlight for example, especially in hot climates, can lead to deformation and of course discoloration. If you leave your mannequin for too long in the display window of your store or outside, there are some chances that they will slightly melt, because fiberglass is indeed plastic and reacts to high temperatures.

Moreover, the mannequins that come with painted faces can suffer from discoloration, because sunlight has a tendency to bleach and whiten objects. Our restoration guide can help you deal and repair this type of damage, if it is the case.

Cleaning

We recommend that you clean your mannequin with a damp cloth and soap or a very mild detergent, just make sure that it doesn't leave any lint or color behind.

If you are also considering how to personalize your mannequins, we invite you to find inspiration in our 8 Ways To Spruce Up A Mannequin article, where we cover fun DIY projects. You will be able to create a unique style that will differentiate your business from your competitors.


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Verified Reviews
  • Product Reviews
  • Site Reviews
03/11/2025
JOYCE B.
United States
I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the...I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the inclusion of white gloves for handling her. We truly like her and have named her Olivia. <3 Thank you, MannequinMall!
03/08/2025
Hollie E.
United States
The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with...The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with you again. Thank you
11/22/2024
Advanced D.
United States
Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if...Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if makeup was applied. Beware, however, if purchasing shoes for these mannequins in advance of receiving them....because the molded feet are NOT flexible (like a human foot) we have had to return the shoes we purchased and exchange them for shoes at least 3 to 4 sizes larger in order to get them to fit. Not a complaint by any means, just a Cautionary Tale! Overall, we are extremely pleased with these purchases!
11/22/2024
Nicholas K.
United States
Started using it to shoot our clothing for our website. Works awesome!
11/12/2024
Trey G.
United States
I ordered one form to see if liked the quality and were pleased with our purchase. Placed an order for (10) more forms!
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
Wonderful display, want to make sure it’s secure from being knocked over. Any displays standing on one leg could easily come tumbling down if it’s in the wrong area. My only suggestion. Great for a corner display.
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
What a great company to work with I love mannequin mall I have 19 football players up in my man cave now.
08/31/2024
Diane G.
United States
I have longed for such a dress form since I was 16 years old, 56 years ago. I am very excited to finally own one and look forward to creating beautiful garments!
08/07/2024
Marc G.
United States
It has both a very classic and modern look to it. Overall very nice. The hands don't close all the way so it leaves a gap. Otherwise it would have received a 5
07/07/2024
Joseph
United States
Perfect! Love it, will buy again
06/27/2024
Mrs L.
United States
This was a gift given to me and the quality and appearance is perfect. Measurements fit me perfectly . A beautiful dress form. Well made wonderful form . I love it
06/24/2024
Edward E.
United States
I bought this product to display my HALO Master Chief armor costume…and, it is awesome! Highly recommend.
06/24/2024
Symia
United States
I’m so obsessed, shipping and delivery was quick!
06/13/2024
Tom
United States
She’s great I named her Penelope!
05/26/2024
Liliana
United States
It was a gift and my sister loved it thank you so much ❤️💕
05/02/2024
Bryan B.
United States
The mannequin was perfect; thank you!
04/29/2024
Marivel T.
United States
They worked well for us.
03/20/2024
Anthony G.
United States
Great quality and arrived quickly.
03/15/2024
Carol J.
United States
Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This...Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This is good for shock absorption. The boxes were clearly marked "fragile, handle with care". The face of the mannequin had a foam mask to protect her nose from breaking. As for the mannequin herself (model MM-Z25), quality is great, all the pieces were there and the stand has a foot support as well as a calf support for better dressing options. The joints are all metal threads and posts, so they can withstand a lot of position changes without wear and tear issues. All it takes is an Allen wrench to move or remove any limbs. The mannequin's face is pleasant (not pouty like some can be), she has nice eyelashes and light colored lipstick and rouge. She has holes in her ears for earrings. I had no problem assembling her. Put one foot on the stand first and work your way up from there. She comes apart easily for dressing. We remove her from the stand and sit her on our sewing studio couch sometimes for a little change and she looks so real! We have several "normal people wigs" that fit her head fine.
03/13/2024
Susan
United States
I love it. It is beautiful high quality 😍
03/12/2024
Alex G.
United States
fantastic experience! as described, nicely made & arrived quickly. for the price I think its outstanding.
03/07/2024
Oconee M.
United States
This is the third mannequin we have purchased from here. Our original choice was out-of-stock, but we were contacted promptly and offered a substitute. Shipping was super fast! Easy to assemble!
03/05/2024
SUZETTE A.
United States
Smooth and Easy!
02/13/2024
Patrick G.
United States
Very pleased with the service provided. The mannequin is high quality looks stunning.
02/13/2024
Bryan B.
United States
She is great! We bought her for our clothing store. We received her very fast and she was packaged exceptionally. We would love to buy many more in the future. Thank you for making our first purchase from you wonderful.
02/12/2024
Maureen H.
United States
She’s beautiful! Perfect for the flower exhibit she will be in at the art museum
02/03/2024
Kend P.
United States
It’s perfect for product photography. Only for starts because the product seemed used, lots of scratches and dents and dirty. Overall good purchase.
01/27/2024
Mandi M.
United States
We love the mannequins but 3 hands had broken fringes and the glass base is shattered on 1. Other than that they look really amazing
01/24/2024
Pamela H.
United States
Very pleased with the mannequin I purchased. Nice quality stand, wheels and form. Easy to assemble.
01/09/2024
AQUEELAH
United States
The Mannequin met all my expectations and the assembly was easy!
REVIEWS
  • Product Reviews
  • Site Reviews
03/11/2025
JOYCE B.
United States
I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the...I've previously worked in retail, so I have experience with various forms of Mannies. I shopped and purchased this particular mannequin to use for special events and in the showroom at our distribution center. She was expertly packed and easy to assemble. We appreciated every detail, even the inclusion of white gloves for handling her. We truly like her and have named her Olivia. <3 Thank you, MannequinMall!
03/08/2025
Hollie E.
United States
The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with...The product is very good quality and life-like in dimensions. The white mannequin was a bit chalky coming out of the box so we wiped it down before putting clothes on it. There was a customer service issue that was dealt with quickly and with integrity to make sure we were happy. I will shop with you again. Thank you
11/22/2024
Advanced D.
United States
Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if...Our company purchased both the female and male mannequins to create a display for one of our clients; we were extremely happy with the quality of these mannequins! The faces on both have eyelashes that actually look real instead of being molded/painted on and the female even has red lips as if makeup was applied. Beware, however, if purchasing shoes for these mannequins in advance of receiving them....because the molded feet are NOT flexible (like a human foot) we have had to return the shoes we purchased and exchange them for shoes at least 3 to 4 sizes larger in order to get them to fit. Not a complaint by any means, just a Cautionary Tale! Overall, we are extremely pleased with these purchases!
11/22/2024
Nicholas K.
United States
Started using it to shoot our clothing for our website. Works awesome!
11/12/2024
Trey G.
United States
I ordered one form to see if liked the quality and were pleased with our purchase. Placed an order for (10) more forms!
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
Wonderful display, want to make sure it’s secure from being knocked over. Any displays standing on one leg could easily come tumbling down if it’s in the wrong area. My only suggestion. Great for a corner display.
09/12/2024
Steve A.
United States
What a great company to work with I love mannequin mall I have 19 football players up in my man cave now.
08/31/2024
Diane G.
United States
I have longed for such a dress form since I was 16 years old, 56 years ago. I am very excited to finally own one and look forward to creating beautiful garments!
08/07/2024
Marc G.
United States
It has both a very classic and modern look to it. Overall very nice. The hands don't close all the way so it leaves a gap. Otherwise it would have received a 5
07/07/2024
Joseph
United States
Perfect! Love it, will buy again
06/27/2024
Mrs L.
United States
This was a gift given to me and the quality and appearance is perfect. Measurements fit me perfectly . A beautiful dress form. Well made wonderful form . I love it
06/24/2024
Edward E.
United States
I bought this product to display my HALO Master Chief armor costume…and, it is awesome! Highly recommend.
06/24/2024
Symia
United States
I’m so obsessed, shipping and delivery was quick!
06/13/2024
Tom
United States
She’s great I named her Penelope!
05/26/2024
Liliana
United States
It was a gift and my sister loved it thank you so much ❤️💕
05/02/2024
Bryan B.
United States
The mannequin was perfect; thank you!
04/29/2024
Marivel T.
United States
They worked well for us.
03/20/2024
Anthony G.
United States
Great quality and arrived quickly.
03/15/2024
Carol J.
United States
Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This...Upon receiving this mannequin, I was impressed by how well she was packed! The biggest parcel was a double box for extra strength and each of the limbs was inside its own bubble pack bag. The pieces were all surrounded by little spongy scraps of what looks like scuba diving wet suit material. This is good for shock absorption. The boxes were clearly marked "fragile, handle with care". The face of the mannequin had a foam mask to protect her nose from breaking. As for the mannequin herself (model MM-Z25), quality is great, all the pieces were there and the stand has a foot support as well as a calf support for better dressing options. The joints are all metal threads and posts, so they can withstand a lot of position changes without wear and tear issues. All it takes is an Allen wrench to move or remove any limbs. The mannequin's face is pleasant (not pouty like some can be), she has nice eyelashes and light colored lipstick and rouge. She has holes in her ears for earrings. I had no problem assembling her. Put one foot on the stand first and work your way up from there. She comes apart easily for dressing. We remove her from the stand and sit her on our sewing studio couch sometimes for a little change and she looks so real! We have several "normal people wigs" that fit her head fine.
03/13/2024
Susan
United States
I love it. It is beautiful high quality 😍
03/12/2024
Alex G.
United States
fantastic experience! as described, nicely made & arrived quickly. for the price I think its outstanding.
03/07/2024
Oconee M.
United States
This is the third mannequin we have purchased from here. Our original choice was out-of-stock, but we were contacted promptly and offered a substitute. Shipping was super fast! Easy to assemble!
03/05/2024
SUZETTE A.
United States
Smooth and Easy!
02/13/2024
Patrick G.
United States
Very pleased with the service provided. The mannequin is high quality looks stunning.
02/13/2024
Bryan B.
United States
She is great! We bought her for our clothing store. We received her very fast and she was packaged exceptionally. We would love to buy many more in the future. Thank you for making our first purchase from you wonderful.
02/12/2024
Maureen H.
United States
She’s beautiful! Perfect for the flower exhibit she will be in at the art museum
02/03/2024
Kend P.
United States
It’s perfect for product photography. Only for starts because the product seemed used, lots of scratches and dents and dirty. Overall good purchase.
01/27/2024
Mandi M.
United States
We love the mannequins but 3 hands had broken fringes and the glass base is shattered on 1. Other than that they look really amazing
01/24/2024
Pamela H.
United States
Very pleased with the mannequin I purchased. Nice quality stand, wheels and form. Easy to assemble.
01/09/2024
AQUEELAH
United States
The Mannequin met all my expectations and the assembly was easy!
REVIEWS