What is the propper way to clean my models?

[TrijetTrilogy]

I recently acquired my first 1:400 model (panda models Md11) and I am displaying it in a mini shelf diorama as shown in the pictures - what would be the proper way to clean it? I am almost afraid to actually touch it at this point, looks so gorgeous yet so fragile.

 

[ghqv2988]

I recently acquired my first 1:400 model (panda models Md11) and I am displaying it in a mini shelf diorama as shown in the pictures - what would be the proper way to clean it? I am almost afraid to actually touch it at this point, looks so gorgeous yet so fragile.View attachment 64058

With such a high degree of sentimental and/or personal value, I would recommend displaying the model and diorama in a enclosed glass shelf to avoid dust or dirt accumulation over time. To clean, a microfiber or cotton tipped swab could come in handy to wipe large surface areas. If you mold the cotton tip, it could potentially clean those crevices at perpendicular angles. Beautiful mini display you have there. I predict many more models in tow in the near future

 

[LeoMuse747]

I recently acquired my first 1:400 model (panda models Md11) and I am displaying it in a mini shelf diorama as shown in the pictures - what would be the proper way to clean it? I am almost afraid to actually touch it at this point, looks so gorgeous yet so fragile.View attachment 64058

Gorgeous model... Panda MD-11 is marvellous!

About your question, see these threads below:

Thread 'Cleaning models'

Aug 11, 2024

Hey everyone, as a somewhat new model collector, I was wondering if there is a specific way that I should be cleaning my models. Right now, I'm just using a tissue to clean the planes. Should I be using something else or is that okay?

• CharlieMike23
• Replies: 26
• Forum: 1:400 Scale

V

Thread 'Handling models with bare hands'

May 14, 2025

How do you all handle your models?

I wash my hands with soap and water before handling my collection bare-handed. I don’t touch my models much - once to take them out of the box (when I try to use the plastic sheet that they come covered in to hold them as much as possible), and only occasionally afterwards if I need to make space in my display cabinet.

Is this an acceptable way to handle my models, or should I be wearing gloves?

• vsr
• Replies: 12
• Forum: 1:400 Scale

 

[Purpleplane]

I always wear cotton gloves, and to clean the models, I dust them with a very soft make up brush. It works very well.

 

[BubblesAviation]

I’m not too experienced nor do I prize my models more then you guys do. Unless I’m touching my Delta E170’s, I just use my hands and clean them every 2-3 months with a microfiber.

 

[ghqv2988]

I’m not too experienced nor do I prize my models more then you guys do. Unless I’m touching my Delta E170’s, I just use my hands and clean them every 2-3 months with a microfiber.

I made the mistake of displaying my 1:200 Hawaiian A330 on top of my refrigerator, which is next to my stovetop. Several months later, come to find there is a sheet of dried, sticky oil residue coating part of the fuselage. When I go to clean it, the oil came off, but also some of the silver floral paint from underneath the stains. My heart sank. Never again.

 

[TrijetTrilogy]

With such a high degree of sentimental and/or personal value, I would recommend displaying the model and diorama in a enclosed glass shelf to avoid dust or dirt accumulation over time. To clean, a microfiber or cotton tipped swab could come in handy to wipe large surface areas. If you mold the cotton tip, it could potentially clean those crevices at perpendicular angles. Beautiful mini display you have there. I predict many more models in tow in the near future

Thank you so much for your help. Honestly, I already feel like I need one on the taxiway to make it feel "alive"

 

[BubblesAviation]

I made the mistake of displaying my 1:200 Hawaiian A330 on top of my refrigerator, which is next to my stovetop. Several months later, come to find there is a sheet of dried, sticky oil residue coating part of the fuselage. When I go to clean it, the oil came off, but also some of the silver floral paint from underneath the stains. My heart sank. Never again.

I put my all of my models in a place they will be safe. I have 3 glass shelves in my room that I try to keep organized.

 

[vsr]

Also a can of compressed air would be useful for removing loose dust without rubbing your models too much. I use it to clean other stuff around my home as well.

 

[TrijetTrilogy]

Also a can of compressed air would be useful for removing loose dust without rubbing your models too much. I use it to clean other stuff around my home as well.

Thanks, I will get one.