How to properly clean your miniature car?
Is your collection of scale models starting to collect dust and lose its splendor? Fortunately, by following our cleaning method , they will regain their shine from the first days! Indeed, a miniature car, whether sheltered by its window or not, is subject to dust, but also to the sun's rays and possible scratches. AN Model Cars , your professional dealer of larger-than-life replicas, gives you advice on how to properly clean a miniature car !
1. Dust off the toy car
This is the first step and it is often the one that makes the difference. Indeed, dust is omnipresent and it quickly accumulates on stationary objects. Using a soft , non-abrasive microfiber , start by dusting the entire bodywork , not forgetting the wheels and the underside of your car.
Attention ! Please remember that these are delicate scale models and not a real vehicle! Throughout the entire operation, be sure to use gentle and measured movements so as not to have the opposite effect and create scratches .
Your replica should already be shinier and seem to have had a facelift! For this second step, you need a brush to complete the finishing touches . For the bodywork, use the size of your choice, the only thing to respect is to choose an extremely flexible brush such as a makeup brush .
In addition, if your miniature collector's car has openable parts ( trunk , hood or passenger compartment), a fine brush is recommended. The interior of a replica is rarely subject to dust, however, a little refreshing is always welcome!
Finally, know that the mini compressor is the ideal tool for efficiently and meticulously dusting your miniature car inside and out! In fact, it allows dust to be evacuated, even the most inaccessible, without contact with the support. This way, you can be sure to eliminate dust in every nook and cranny , without accidentally scratching the vehicle. The mini compressor is the perfect tool for enthusiasts who like to pamper the items in their collection.
2. Humidify the reproduction
This does not involve immersing your car in water, but simply wiping it with a damp microfiber cloth to prepare for the application of the wax. Don't be too generous, your model should not be dripping, but barely damp.
3. Apply wax
It is essential in this stage of cleaning a miniature car . Indeed, wax does not just make the colors shine and revive . A real protective layer, it extends the lifespan and above all the quality of the materials of your replica. The wax also helps fill micro scratches and prevent the accumulation of dust.
To apply the wax, it's very simple: first make sure the car is dry and clean. Then, take a clean microfiber cloth and apply a pea-sized amount to it.
Start spreading the wax using small rotating movements. For 1/18 and 1/12 scale models , avoid waxing the windows . To avoid any marks, it is best to clean them with a damp cloth.
What cleaning products should you avoid when cleaning your miniature car?
Household products based on alcohol and solvents should absolutely be avoided! In fact, they alter the thin layer of paint on the bodywork, causing it to peel. Stickers are also harmful, because when removing them, damage can be seen.
Furthermore, we strongly advise against immersing your replica directly in water or a liquid of any kind. This process leads to the deterioration of certain parts, particularly the passenger compartment.
Always use gentle water-based products, and always remain measured and flexible in your actions.
And there you have it, thanks to our steps for properly cleaning your miniature car , it shines brightly again and seems to have come out of its packaging! To prevent aging and deterioration of your reproduction, a plexiglass display case remains the best solution. In fact, it protects your engine from the sun's rays which can damage the paint, but also from dust and impacts . So, in addition to keeping your miniature collector's car in the best condition, this also allows you to space out cleanings !
