Loose Joints
Labubu's articulation points — ears, arms, and sometimes legs depending on the edition — can loosen over time or from repeated repositioning. The fix for loose vinyl joints is clear nail polish or a vinyl-specific joint tightener (sold in hobby shops and on Amazon).
Apply a small amount to the joint peg while the joint is disassembled, let it dry completely before reassembling. This adds friction to the connection without permanent adhesion. It's reversible — if it gets too tight, warm the joint slightly with a hair dryer to loosen.
Surface Scuffs and Marks
Light scuffs from contact with hard surfaces can sometimes be buffed out with a soft microfiber cloth. For slightly deeper marks, a small amount of Meguiar's PlastX (a plastic polishing compound) on a microfiber cloth works on smooth vinyl surfaces.
Test any product on an inconspicuous area first. Some paint applications on Labubu's details — particularly the eye details and decorative markings — are not underneath a clearcoat and can be damaged by anything abrasive.
What You Should Leave Alone
Paint touch-ups are difficult on vinyl figures. Factory paint matching is nearly impossible for hobbyists, and amateur paint jobs visibly affect resale value. Unless you're prepared to fully repaint and the figure has no resale value to you, leave paint chips and wear as they are.
Similarly, structural cracks or breaks in the vinyl are beyond practical home repair. Vinyl adhesives exist, but the repair is usually visible and affects display quality. If a figure breaks, the secondary market for parts or replacement is usually a better path than attempting a repair.
Preventive Maintenance
The most effective maintenance is environmental. Keep figures out of direct sunlight, which degrades vinyl and fades paint over months. Control humidity — high moisture over time causes vinyl to become tacky. Dust regularly with a soft brush to prevent buildup in textured areas.
For figures you're not displaying actively, store in the original box or an airtight container with silica gel packets to control moisture. The original packaging is purpose-built for the figure's dimensions and provides the best protection during storage.