How to use and care for a mannequin in retail store

When one talks about a successful retailing, visual merchandizing plays a significant role in establishing communication between the customer and the store. Many people don’t realize how effective retail display can be. Surprisingly, window display acts as a catalyst in increasing the sales of any business. With the aid of mannequin, you can personalize the exhibit. It becomes easier for the prospective customer to understand what the store is selling and what kind of styles one can expect there.

Poorly kept mannequins never work, no matter how creative your display is. Hence, it is important to take proper care of your mannequins. Following tips will help to keep your total ownership cost of mannequins and therefore improve the bottom line.

Ways to avoid scratches and unnecessary Damage to a mannequin

When you are handling mannequins, the best thing to do is to first remove all rings from your fingers. It is better to have small nails and other than that, one should wear gloves while cleaning or otherwise handling the mannequin to avoid scratches. Similarly, carefully assemble the mannequin to avoid possible damage. There are certain vulnerable parts in all mannequins that should be handled with care like face, joints, and wrists.

How to display and store a mannequin?

Whenever you have to store the mannequin, it is always advisable to use save and reuse original packing box that came with a mannequin.  If for some reason you do not have it, use bubble wraps to cover them. Ensure that you wrap the vulnerable parts like arms, wrist etc., separately.  Use extra poly foam or Styrofoam to fill all empty space in the box.

Display placement to ensure safety

It is important that you position your mannequins in such a manner that they are safe from being bumped into by people, especially in exhibition halls which are often crowded.

Use mannequin paints only

If your mannequin has lost its sheen and you want to get the same luster back as it had when new, it is best to repaint it. However, don’t use just any paint. Special mannequin paint is available in the hardware shop which can be employed over the mannequin properly.  It is also possible to ask your mannequin supplier to give a touch up kit.

Methods to remove dirt, stains and how to clean a mannequin

s to ensure that it does not look poor and substandard so, it is important to clean it on a regular basis, at least weekly.

It is very simple to clean a mannequin. All you need is a soft, lint free cloth like muslin, water, baking soda, spray bottle and toothbrush to clean joints and fingers. Prior to the cleaning process, it is important to clean your hands thoroughly or to wear gloves to avoid finger marks on the mannequin. Moreover, it is important to apply gentle pressure on the mannequin while cleaning to avoid needless damage. It is best to clean in a circular motion.

Use baking soda over tough stains. Apply the soda on the tip of the brush and clean in circular motion only. After scrubbing and cleaning with water, it is advisable to dry it thoroughly to give it the same polished look which was there when you first bought it.

If some pencil marks have developed over mannequins, you can use an eraser to rub them off. Many times, mannequins get smudges which can be removed using toothpaste and water mixture. Just use a soft toothbrush and remove all traces of paint.

Shop fittings and VM have a huge role to play in making a business flourishing.  However, the mannequin is useful only if it is well displayed and properly cared. If you feel that you can’t take proper care of your mannequin, the best thing to do is to employ a professional helper. There are many companies that specialize in mannequin care. Just look for one in the yellow pages or Google it. Definitely, you would have to spend a small sum on it but it would be indeed worthwhile in a long run.