Full mannequins start at US$700 and if they are realistic mannequins, the wigs are added cost.

Mannequins are also the most used display item. Over 50% of their lifetime in a store, they are on the sales floor or a window. The rest is spent in storage.

Then they are "retired" either by selling them or being thrown in the dumpster.

Because of their value (monetary and as a display tool) "mannequins demand more than their share of tender loving care." Frank Myers, Display Director at Madigan Brothers, River Forest, III., pointed out.

"Anyone handling mannequins should understand that, unlike humans, mannequins do not heal by themselves. So, when they receive nicks, scratches and breaks, they will remain that way until they go to the refinisher or are pitched in the garbage." (Other Side of the Window VM&SD Magazine, 1979)

Most common problems in mannequin maintenance are:

Many quality firms and display houses specialize in refurbishing tired mannequins. However, due to the costs involved in either restoring old mannequins or buying new ones, visual merchandisers must rely on do-it-yourself, "preventive" care to insure maximum use of their mannequin collections."

Some Tips on Preventive Maintenance

• Provide adequate and proper storage for mannequins. There are "mannequin covers" which are available commercially. If you do not have one handy, cover the mannequins with cloth or bubble wrap.
• When storing mannequins, wrap their fingers with cloth or bubble wrap, taking care to strengthen the finger digits
• Put a make-up cover on the mannequin faces, and wrap their faces with several layers of cloth or bubble wrap. Scratches and nicks on the face are the hardest to hide.
• Construct a special bin for moving mannequins. The ideal bin should be lined with foam or carpeting. If this proves to be expensive, recycle bubble wraps and line the bin with bubble wrap. It provides cushion for the mannequins while being transported.
• Keep several cans of mannequin paint (matching the color of your mannequins) handy. When a mannequin gets a nick or scratch, a jolt of mannequin spray paint goes a long way. Mannequin paints are available from mannequin manufacturers and refurbishers
• Handle your mannequins with clean hands.
• If your mannequins get smudges of dirt, use a mixture of toothpaste and water to clean the mannequin. Use a soft brush, (an old toothbrush will do) to clean the smudged area.
• When planning your floor display, try to compose poses that do not stick out and/or obstruct traffic.
• Avoid crowded situations on the sales floor. Do not place t-stands or racks too near your mannequin groupings.
• On aisle displays, construct a dais or platform to place your mannequin groupings. This will give a subliminal signal to the customers not to bump the area, and in turn, not bump your mannequins
• Theft should be handled sensibly. Inform the store security if you notice it.