10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Displaying Diecast Models

Displaying diecast models is both an art and a science. Collectors invest time, money, and passion into building their collections, so finding the best way to display them is key to showing off their beauty and protecting their value. However, common mistakes in display can result in fading, dust buildup, or even accidental damage. In this article, we’ll cover ten common mistakes collectors make when displaying their diecast cars and provide tips on how to avoid them, ensuring your models stay in pristine condition for years to come.

1. Exposing Models to Direct Sunlight

Sunlight can be harsh on diecast models, causing paint to fade, decals to peel, and plastic parts to become brittle over time.

• The Problem: Prolonged exposure to sunlight fades vibrant paint colors and degrades materials, especially in models with rubber tires or intricate decals.

• The Solution: Place your display in an area away from direct sunlight. Alternatively, use UV-protective glass or film for windows in your display room, or consider display cases with UV-filtered glass.

Avoiding direct sunlight preserves the colors and materials of your models, keeping them looking new.

2. Skipping the Dust Protection

Dust is an inevitable enemy of any display. It not only dulls the appearance of your models but can also cause surface damage if not cleaned carefully.

• The Problem: Dust accumulates quickly and can scratch paintwork when wiped off if not done carefully. Dust also finds its way into small crevices, making it challenging to remove fully.

• The Solution: Use enclosed display cases to protect your models from dust buildup. Acrylic or glass cases are ideal, as they also shield models from physical contact while allowing for clear visibility.

Regular cleaning becomes much easier with dust-protected cases, keeping your collection safe and attractive.

3. Choosing the Wrong Display Environment

Temperature and humidity can have a significant impact on the longevity of diecast models. Extreme conditions can cause metals to corrode and paints to deteriorate.

• The Problem: High humidity can lead to rust and corrosion on metal parts, while excessive dryness can make plastic components brittle. Fluctuating temperatures may cause materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks.

• The Solution: Store your models in a climate-controlled room. Avoid areas prone to temperature changes, like basements, attics, or garages. Ideally, maintain a stable, moderate temperature and humidity level (around 40-50%) to prevent corrosion and damage.

A consistent environment will protect your collection from potential wear and tear.

4. Ignoring Proper Spacing

When models are packed too closely together, they can end up scratching or denting each other, diminishing their display appeal and risking damage.

• The Problem: Tight spacing increases the risk of accidents, especially when moving models in and out. It also makes it harder to view each model individually, leading to a cluttered look.

• The Solution: Allow sufficient space between models to showcase each one fully. For larger collections, consider tiered shelving to display models at different heights and avoid overcrowding.

Proper spacing lets each model shine and makes the display more visually appealing.

5. Not Using Appropriate Shelving

Shelving materials and construction can greatly impact the display quality and safety of your diecast models.

• The Problem: Lightweight or unstable shelving can cause models to fall and suffer damage. Certain materials may also off-gas or react with diecast models, causing discoloration or corrosion.

• The Solution: Use sturdy, secure shelves made from materials like metal, glass, or well-finished wood. Avoid cheap plastic shelving, which may warp over time, and ensure shelves are properly anchored to support the weight of multiple models.

A solid, reliable shelf will prevent accidents and keep your models safe from unexpected mishaps.

6. Neglecting Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Even in enclosed cases, diecast models can collect dust, fingerprints, and other minor residues over time.

• The Problem: Neglecting cleaning can lead to a buildup of dust and oils that become harder to remove over time. When ignored, fingerprints and residues can tarnish paint finishes and dull the shine of your models.

• The Solution: Use a soft microfiber cloth to regularly dust the cases and wipe down any exposed areas. For more detailed cleaning, a small brush or air blower can reach into tight spaces without damaging the model.

Regular maintenance keeps your models looking fresh and protects their value.

7. Failing to Highlight Each Model

A well-designed display is as much about aesthetics as it is about protection. Poor lighting or display positioning can prevent models from standing out and showing their full beauty.

• The Problem: Insufficient or poorly positioned lighting leaves models looking dull and prevents them from standing out. Overly harsh lighting, on the other hand, can create glare and distract from the details.

• The Solution: Use LED lighting with a soft, warm tone to highlight your models. LED lights emit less heat than other light sources, making them safe for prolonged use near delicate models. Position lights to minimize shadows and accentuate key details.

Thoughtful lighting transforms your display into a showcase that lets each model’s design shine.

8. Overhandling Models During Display Changes

Moving or adjusting models frequently can increase the risk of dropping or damaging them. Overhandling also leads to fingerprints, which can dull the paintwork.

• The Problem: Frequent handling increases the risk of accidents, as well as wear and tear. Oils from your hands can leave residues that are difficult to clean, especially on painted surfaces.

• The Solution: Limit handling by planning your display layout beforehand. When you need to adjust models, use gloves to avoid fingerprints. Consider investing in small model stands or turntables that allow you to reposition without picking up the model.

Minimizing handling preserves the model’s condition and keeps your display looking pristine.

9. Using Inferior Cleaning Products

Not all cleaning products are safe for diecast models. Harsh chemicals can damage the paint, decals, and materials over time.

• The Problem: Using general household cleaners or abrasive materials can strip paint, dissolve decals, or leave permanent scratches on delicate parts.

• The Solution: Stick to mild, model-safe cleaning solutions, like distilled water with a small amount of gentle soap. Avoid alcohol-based cleaners and rough cloths. Soft microfiber cloths and model brushes are best for dusting and light cleaning.

Gentle, model-safe cleaning products will keep your collection looking flawless without the risk of accidental damage.

10. Forgetting to Rotate Displayed Models

For larger collections, it’s common to leave some models in storage while others are displayed. However, leaving models stored away for too long can lead to unnoticed degradation.

• The Problem: Long-term storage can lead to dust buildup, tire deformation, or even corrosion if models are not checked periodically.

• The Solution: Rotate your displayed models regularly to ensure all parts of your collection get time in the spotlight. Check stored models periodically to ensure they’re free from dust and other damaging elements, and make sure they’re stored in a safe, climate-controlled environment.

Rotating your models keeps your display fresh and helps prevent unnoticed damage in storage.

Conclusion: Displaying Your Diecast Collection with Care

Displaying your diecast models is one of the best parts of collecting, as it allows you to admire the beauty of each piece and share it with others. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a stunning, well-protected display that will preserve the condition and value of your models. From protecting them from sunlight to using the right cleaning products, a little extra care goes a long way in ensuring that your collection remains as impressive as the day you acquired each piece.

With the right approach, your diecast display will be a source of pride, drawing admiration from guests and providing endless enjoyment for you as a collector. So take the time to create a thoughtful, well-organized display—one that highlights each model and ensures that your collection stays in top shape for years to come.