Do not bathe, immerse or soak a vinyl reborn doll with a cloth body. Moon & Milk’s dolls have this construction, with glass-bead weighting inside. Cleaning a small surface mark is different from putting the doll in water.
If your doll came from another artist, check its materials and supplied care instructions first. Looking realistic does not mean a doll can be washed like a baby or a bath toy.
Why a bath can damage a reborn
Water can get into the cloth body and its filling, where it is difficult to dry fully. A damp body can develop an unpleasant smell or mould. Soaking also puts painted surfaces and glued components at risk.
Keeping the head above water or wrapping the body in a towel does not make bathing suitable. Avoid sinks, baths, showers and pools, including a quick dip for a photograph.
How to clean it instead
- Start with a soft, dry brush or lint-free cloth to remove dust.
- Painted hair needs dry dusting only. Do not use water, cleaning products or hair products on it.
- If the artist’s instructions allow water, a small mark on vinyl can be dabbed with a barely damp cloth. Never scrub, and keep liquid away from openings and the cloth body. The cleaning guide explains the method.
- Treat rooted mohair separately. Do not wash it or use heat.
The reborn cleaning guide explains the surface-cleaning method, including when to stop. For brushing and conditioning, use the rooted mohair guide.
If your doll gets wet
Remove wet clothing and blot surface moisture with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use a hairdryer, radiator or other heat to speed up drying.
If water has reached the cloth body or its filling, contact the doll’s artist for advice. Explain where the water reached and how long the doll was wet. A dry outer surface does not show that the inside is dry.
Bath-themed photographs without water
Use an empty, dry bowl or bath prop on a stable surface, with a soft towel supporting the doll. Keep real water and bathing products out of the setup. Support the head and body when moving the doll, and never leave it balanced on the edge of a prop.
What about silicone dolls?
Silicone dolls vary in construction and care requirements. This guide does not provide bathing instructions for them. Follow the maker’s instructions for that particular doll, including any restrictions around the hair, eyes, openings or internal parts.
Common questions
Can I use baby wipes?
Avoid baby wipes. Start with dry dusting and follow the cleaning instructions for the doll’s material and painted finish. Products made for human skin are not automatically suitable for reborn paint.
How do I keep the doll smelling fresh?
Keep clothing and blankets clean and fully dry. Do not apply fragrance directly to the doll or its hair. If the doll develops a musty smell, investigate possible damp rather than covering it with scent.
Can I wash just the hair?
Do not wash rooted mohair. Use the artist’s instructions and the directions for any suitable mohair product. Painted hair should only be dusted with a soft, dry brush or cloth.
