Short answers to common questions about reborn dolls, buying and care. For a particular doll or accessory, use its individual listing and the artist’s instructions. For delivery, returns and questions about an order, see the shop FAQ.
About reborn dolls
What is a reborn doll?
A realistic art doll painted and finished individually, often from an unpainted kit. The sculptor makes the original form and the reborn artist creates the individual finish. See what is a reborn doll? for the materials and making process.
Why do adults collect them?
For the artwork, dressing, photography, the experience of holding a doll or personal meaning. There is no single collector profile or required reason. Some people find them comforting, but a doll cannot promise a particular emotional or therapeutic result.
Are they toys for children?
Moon & Milk’s reborns are collector art dolls, not toys, and are not intended for children under 14. Weighting, small parts and magnetic accessories need consideration separately. Check every item’s description and warnings.
Do reborns move, cry or drink?
Do not assume any of these features from the word “reborn”. The dolls described in these guides are art dolls that you position by hand. Do not put liquid into a doll. Any specialist mechanism or different construction needs explicit instructions from its maker.
Buying a doll
What should a listing tell me?
The actual doll’s photographs, sculpt and artist, materials, hair, length, weight, condition, included items and sale terms. Ask about anything missing before paying. The buying checklist gives the full questions.
Does every doll need a COA?
Certificate arrangements vary between kits. Ask whether one is included and who issued it. Missing paperwork needs context, while a certificate alone does not prove the quality or condition of the finished doll.
How much should I spend?
Set a comfortable budget and compare individual dolls, including delivery. The UK price guide gives indicative asking-price ranges, not guaranteed values. Neither a high nor a low price proves authenticity.
What comes with a reborn?
The individual listing should say. Clothing, a blanket, a dummy or paperwork may be included, but do not assume everything photographed is part of the sale.
Can I return a doll?
Read the seller’s returns information before buying and contact them about a problem with your order. For a Moon & Milk purchase, use the shop’s current policy information rather than a general collector guide.
Materials and hair
Are vinyl and silicone the same?
No. Ask which parts are made from which material and what body construction is used. Moon & Milk’s dolls have vinyl heads and limbs, cloth bodies and glass-bead weighting. Silicone dolls need the maker’s own care instructions.
Should I choose painted or rooted hair?
Painted hair has a fixed style and needs dry dusting only. Rooted hair adds fibres and texture but needs careful grooming. The hair comparison explains the everyday differences.
Will a magnetic dummy fit any reborn?
No. The doll needs a compatible magnet, and its position and polarity affect the fit. Check the individual dummy listing. The magnetic dummies are not suitable for children or anyone with a pacemaker.
Everyday care
Can I bathe a reborn?
Do not bathe, immerse or soak a vinyl doll with a cloth body. Water can reach the filling and damage the doll. Follow the surface-cleaning guide instead.
Can it wear baby clothes?
Yes, if they fit without pulling or pressure. Use the doll’s measurements and listing guidance, because clothing sizes vary. Wash garments before use, be cautious with dark dyes and follow the dressing method.
Does it need scent or conditioner?
Not every doll needs a product. Scent sprays and mohair conditioners have different purposes, so check the intended use and directions. Do not apply fragrance directly to the doll or hair, and never use mohair products on painted hair.
What if something comes loose or looks damaged?
Stop handling or treating the affected area and ask the artist if you are unsure. Describe the problem and any product already used. A photograph can help. Do not keep cleaning a mark if the paint starts to change.
Where should I start with care?
Use the care overview for handling, cleaning, hair, clothing and storage, then follow the instructions supplied with your particular doll.
