Most diecast cars owned by collectors are kept in near-mint condition and need little cleaning except for dust removal. In this guide, we will discuss how to clean diecast cars of dust, heavy dirt and grime, as well as how to wax and display them.
Some diecast car owners take meticulous care of their vehicles which can create an impressive collection, while others simply like the way they look and have them laying around their house.
Diecast cars can be highly valuable if kept in mint condition which requires owners to take their diecast car cleaning game to the next level.
Specifically, rare diecast models can contain upholstery, emblems, as well as accessories that need special attention.
For a fantastic visual guide on how to clean diecast cars, watch the following:
Importance Of A Proper Cleaning Routine
Properly caring for your diecast models offers many benefits. Whether you are an expert collector or just happen to have a few diecast models on hand, a proper cleaning routine will allow you to enjoy them for years. Here are a few benefits of cleaning your diecast model cars.
- Aesthetic Value: The value of diecast model cars is heavily linked to their overall appearance. If there are chips in the paint, dirt caked onto the undercarriage, or even minor scratches, the value can tank quickly. Besides cleaning diecast cars regularly, storing them in a safe area also helps preserve their value.
- Longevity: Many collectors have systems in place to protect their diecast cars over time, such as shrink wrap, extensive packaging, and even coating the car with a protective substance. These measures are extreme for most models that just require maintenance cleanings, but will still be discussed in this guide
How To Clean Diecast Cars
This guide will discuss how to clean the dust, oily grime, and more off of diecast cars in a professional manner.
How To Remove Dust From Diecast Cars
Over time dust will collect on all diecast car models, even if they are kept in safe and secure places. Follow the instructions below to professionally remove all dust.
What you will need:
Begin by wearing cotton handling gloves as well as laying a microfiber towel down on a table. This will be used as a placemat for the diecast model as you work on it and prohibit the car from getting any dirtier. The gloves will keep all greasy fingerprints off the diecasts’ paint.
If your diecast model has rolled-down windows, doors that are able to open, or other mobile compartments, open all of them at this time. This will allow for the most amount of dust to be removed
Once the car is completely open, use a can of compressed air with its included plastic tube to spray the dust out and off of the vehicle. Make sure to hit between cracks and crevices if your model has an exposed interior.
Once all dust is removed, place the diecast model back in a secure location where it can be viewed and enjoyed.
How To Remove Fingerprints and Grime On a Diecast
If a diecast model has lived a quality life out of the box, there are likely quite a few fingerprints and grimey places on the exterior of the car. Treat all of these areas by following these steps.
What you will need:
We will clean fingerprints off these cars by using a soapy water mixture as well as some cotton balls. Make sure to wear cotton handling gloves during this process.
Begin by spraying the car panels lightly with a soap and water mixture. If the interior of the car is permanently exposed, be careful not to spray the liquid onto the upholstery.
Once the car is covered, take a 100% cotton balls and rub all panels of the car in small front-to-back motions to work the grease and grime off of the paint
- Note: A microfiber cloth can also be used in place of the cotton balls
Repeat this process until all areas of the car have been treated. Once done, use a microfiber cloth to dry the diecast. Make sure to dry in a back-and-forth motion to avoid scratching the paint.
Now that your diecast model is clean, it’s time to move on to the best step of the process. Learning how to wax a diecast.
How To Wax A Diecast Car
Applying a layer of car wax onto your diecast car models 1-2 times a year is an excellent year to protect the paint over time and preserve its value.
Here’s what you will need:
Begin with wearing cotton handling gloves as well as laying a microfiber towel down on a table. This will be used as a placemat to set the diecast model as you work on it and prohibit the car from getting any dirtier. The gloves will keep all greasy fingerprints off the diecasts’ paint.
Ensure that you have removed all dust and larger bits of grease and grime from the vehicle before performing this step. Both processes are described above,
To start applying wax, squeeze a nickel-sized pile of Mequiars car wax onto a plate. Take the very tip of a Q-tip and roll it in wax.
Starting on the hood of the diecast and working down, apply the wax by swirling it in small circular motions with the q tip. Do this across all painted surfaces of the diecast, and be sure to avoid decals.
Let the wax sit for 3-5 minutes or until it appears hazy. This means it is time for the wax to be removed. To do so, buff the wax off the diecast in small sweeping motions using a microfiber cloth.
Once the dried wax has been removed, the diecast model will be shining like never before. Place the model somewhere visible and enjoy a job well done.
How To Diecast Car FAQ
How to Paint Diecast Cars?
Does your diecast car need some paint touch-up? No problem! Painting a diecast car is a relatively easy process that includes sanding, sanitizing, and actually painting the car.
How to Repair Diecast Metal?
Are you a diecast car model finatic? Learn how to soder your model car’s metal back together to keep it looking fresh for longer!
How to Display Diecast Cars
There are many fun and unique ways to display your diecast model cars, and everyone has their own preference. The most common ways are clear showcases, shelving units, as well as display cabinets. Look here at some diecast model display inspiration.
How to Sell Diecast Cars?
Looking to make a few (or maybe many?) bucks from selling your diecast models on the internet? There are many great sites to do this such as eBay, amazon fba, and marketplace. Check out this complete diecast selling guide for eBay.
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