How to Store Scale Figures in Boxes Without Damage

By animate USA Online Shop | Published: 2026-10-13

Category: Tips & Care

Pack and store your scale figures safely with a step-by-step box method that controls humidity, pressure, and temperature for long-term protection.

Quick answer

Store scale figures in their original boxes, wrapped in acid-free tissue or the original blister, in a cool, dark, dry place with stable humidity between 40% and 50%. Keep boxes upright, avoid stacking heavy items on top, and check them every few months for moisture or pests.

Gather the right packing materials before you start

You do not need custom crates, but you do need supplies that will not off-gas or scratch paint. Acid-free tissue paper, clean microfibre cloths, and the original blister packs are your best friends. If the original blister is missing, use soft foam or bubble wrap with the bubbles facing outward so they do not press patterns into the figure.

Acid-free tissue paper or clean white cotton gloves for handling
Original blister pack or soft foam inserts
Small zip bags for loose accessories
Silica gel packets (rechargeable type) for humidity control
Marker and labels for box contents

Clean and dry each figure before it goes into storage

Dust, skin oils, and leftover moisture are the three main causes of paint damage during storage. Use a soft brush or microfibre cloth to remove dust, then wipe gently with a slightly damp cloth if needed. Let the figure air-dry completely for at least an hour before packing. Never store a figure that still feels cool or damp to the touch.

Pack the figure so it cannot shift or press against hard surfaces

The goal is to immobilize the figure without squeezing it. Place the figure in its original blister if you have it. If not, wrap the figure loosely in acid-free tissue, then add foam or bubble wrap around the outside. Pay extra attention to thin parts like hair strands, capes, and fingers. Fill any empty space in the box with crumpled tissue so the figure cannot slide when the box is moved.

Choose a storage location that controls humidity and temperature

Heat and humidity are worse for scale figures than cold. A closet or interior room with stable temperature and low humidity is ideal. Avoid attics, basements, garages, and anywhere near windows or heating vents. If you live in a humid climate, use a sealed plastic bin with a rechargeable silica gel packet and check it monthly.

Stack and label boxes for safe long-term storage

Store boxes upright, not on their sides, so the figure stays in its intended orientation. Do not stack heavy boxes on top of lighter ones. Label each box with the figure name and date so you can find it later without opening everything. If you use plastic bins, leave the lid slightly ajar for the first day after packing to let any trapped moisture escape, then seal it.

Step-by-step storage process

1. Clean and dry the figure: Remove dust with a soft brush or microfibre cloth. If you use a damp cloth, let the figure air-dry completely before packing. Checkpoint: no visible dust, no moisture on the surface.
2. Prepare the original box and blister: If you have the original blister, use it. If not, line the box with acid-free tissue and create a soft nest for the figure. Common mistake: throwing away the blister pack. It is the best protection for the figure's specific shape.
3. Wrap and immobilize the figure: Wrap the figure loosely in acid-free tissue, then add foam or bubble wrap around fragile parts. Fill empty space with crumpled tissue so nothing shifts. Checkpoint: gently shake the closed box. If you hear or feel movement, add more padding.
4. Add humidity control: Place a rechargeable silica gel packet in the box, away from direct contact with the figure. Recharge or replace it every 2–3 months. Common mistake: using scented or non-rechargeable desiccants that can leak or leave residue.
5. Seal, label, and store upright: Close the box, label it with the figure name and date, and store it upright in a cool, dark, dry place. Do not stack heavy items on top. Checkpoint: storage area stays between 40–50% humidity and below 75°F (24°C).
6. Inspect every 3–6 months: Open each box briefly to check for moisture, pests, or paint changes. Let the figure air for 10 minutes before resealing. Next step: if you find any stickiness or mold, isolate the figure and clean it before returning it to storage.

Product facts to keep in mind

[Bungo Stray Dogs] Osamu Dazai: Age Fifteen Ver. – 1/7 Scale Figure w/ animate Exclusive: 1/7 scale figure of Osamu Dazai (Age Fifteen Ver.) with an animate exclusive illustration card, in stock. The included illustration card should be stored flat in an acid-free sleeve, not folded or pressed against the figure.
(1/6 Scale Figure) GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE Mary: Bay Goddess: 1/6 scale figure of Mary: Bay Goddess from Goddess of Victory: Nikke, approx. 6.7 inches, made of PVC and ABS. PVC and ABS can become tacky in high heat, so keep this figure in a cool, stable environment.
(1/7 Scale Figure) Danganronpa Series Junko Enoshima: 15th Anniversary Ver.: 1/7 scale Junko Enoshima 15th Anniversary Ver. figure, approx. 10.9 inches, requires the included stand to balance. Always store this figure with its stand attached or immediately accessible, and never force it to stand without support during unpacking.