Vintage Steiff bears are the
star in many toy auctions and collections all over the world. They not only
hold the title to being the pioneer teddy bear manufacturer but they too come
with so much history and art making them truly exceptional and charming to say
the least. Owning one to several pieces will however require utmost care and
ample maintenance. Apart from having lived through several decades, these
pieces come packed with value too so leaving them unattended and uncared for
would be truly silly.
One of the first care
requirements to be had when it comes to vintage Steiff bears would have to be
storage. It is one of the main if not the topmost priority when collecting such
pieces.
Storage not only provides for
display but also protection for the collectible toys. They act as a functional
and display tool so choosing a type of system is really crucial. To help with
such task, we’ve rounded up some of the best tips when it comes to vintage
Steiff bear storage.
Determine your pieces. Not all vintage Steiff bears are the same. Because these
pieces have been made in different years and decades, their condition and type
of material varies thereby requiring owners to have adequate knowledge about
particular models and how they are to be handled.
Establish height and size. Some collectibles are pretty small; many come in the
regular sizes while there are those that are quite unconventional in terms of
size. When planning a storage system, put the items’ dimensions in
consideration.
Make it durable. It is important that the storage units last regardless of
their type and size. It would be inconvenient to have to remodel and buy
another system when the old one easily wears off.
Keep it out of easy reach. To keep children and pets from harming the said toys, shelving
and cabinets must be kept high enough to prevent easy access for them. It’s
better to be safe than sorry. These bears are for display not exactly for play
or worse food.
Stir clear of humidity and moisture. This is done to avoid the growth of molds and the
infestation of bugs and rodents. Pick an area that is not prone to humidity and
moisture.
Keep temperatures normal. Vintage Steiff bears, just like any other stuffed toy,
does not take high temperatures lightly. Excessive heat such as exposure to the
sun can cause its colors to fade and dull out.