Caring for your reborn baby

Each reborn doll handcrafted at Reborn Babies by 909 in Hanna Alberta, is a delicate and collectible work of fine art. Unlike store-bought toys, these babies require gentle, mindful care to preserve their realistic details, soft mohair, and custom paintwork for generations to come. Explore our comprehensive care guide below to ensure your one-of-a-kind art doll stays in pristine condition.

Frequently asked care questions

Whether you have adopted a full silicone baby or a vinyl doll, proper handling is essential. Discover answers to essential questions regarding cleaning, styling hair, dressing, and safeguarding your heirloom collectible.

What are the essential handling rules for reborn dolls?

Always treat your reborn just like a real newborn baby. Support the head and limbs at all times. Keep your doll away from extreme heat, freezing temperatures, and direct sunlight, as temperature extremes can damage paint layers and materials. Never apply body lotions, baby oils, perfumes, or chemical substances to the doll's skin—clean water is the only safe option.

How do silicone and vinyl doll care differ?

Silicone and vinyl react differently over time. Silicone babies can attract fuzz or feel tacky, requiring occasional light dusting with baby-safe powder. In contrast, vinyl dolls naturally become shiny with frequent handling and may eventually need professional rematting. Keep silicone and vinyl dolls completely separated, and never share clothing between them, to prevent damaging chemical reactions.

How do I safely brush and style rooted mohair?

Handle rooted mohair with immense care. For silicone babies, comb only sparingly using a soft baby brush or comb. You can spritz the hair with clean water mixed with a small drop of mild conditioner. For styling, wet the hair down completely into place, gently slip a snug (not tight) hat over the entire head, and let the doll sit upright overnight without resting against any surface. Carefully peel off the hat once dry for smooth, pristine locks.

How should I dress my reborn baby without causing damage?

Remove any rings, jewellery, or sharp accessories from your hands before dressing your doll. Avoid pulling, twisting, or bending limbs excessively, as this stresses the vinyl or silicone and breaks down the protective matte varnish. When dressing silicone babies, be mindful not to stretch limbs past their natural limits, as silicone can tear easily under tension.

What is the safest way to insert bottles or pacifiers?

The single most common mistake collectors make is forcing a bottle nipple or pacifier into the baby's mouth. Forcing items in can rip the delicate corners of silicone lips. Always apply a silicone-safe lubricant or a light dusting of powder to the nipple before gently placing it in the mouth, and never use excessive force.

How should I introduce my reborn doll to family and friends?

Remember that your reborn is an investment piece and a delicate creation, not a commercial toy. When allowing guests or children to hold your baby, kindly guide them to support the head, avoid tugging on limbs or hair, and handle the piece with the gentle respect an authentic artwork deserves.

Ready to welcome your next baby home?

Now that you know how to look after these precious works of art, take a look at our current nursery to find the baby made just for you.