Why Is My Funko Pop or Action Figure Sticky?
Understanding “Sweating” and “Weeping” in Figures
You pick up your Funko Pop or action figure to give it a good dusting. But only to find it still looks dirty, and worse, it feels sticky to the touch. No matter how much you wipe, it just won’t go away.
This isn’t your fault. It’s a common issue known as “sweating” in action figures or “weeping” in Funko Pops.
Example of Funko POP Anna from Frozen is "weeping"
What Causes Sweating or Weeping in Figures?
Most action figures and Funko Pops are made from PVC plastic, a strong and durable material. It doesn’t break down quickly like paper or food, but over time, exposure to sunlight (UV rays), heat, and air can slowly cause it to degrade.
As PVC breaks down, you may notice a sticky or greasy texture, yellowing, or faded colors. This is your figure’s way of saying, “I’m getting old.”
Another reason figures feel sticky is due to a chemical reaction between the PVC and the paint or coating used on the figure. If your room is humid, that can make it worse. Since plastic doesn't absorb moisture, the trapped humidity has nowhere to go and ends up leaking out as stickiness on the surface.
An action figure showing signs of "sweating"
How to Prevent Your Figures from Weeping
Avoid sunlight as much as possible. Use a UV-protective display case or draw a curtain to keep your figures out of direct sunlight. Rotating your figures from display to storage now and then also helps minimize exposure. If you don’t plan to display them for a while, keep them in a cool, dark place.
Moisture control is just as important. If you live in a hot or humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier in your room. Occasionally unbox your figures to let them air out. Ventilation helps reduce moisture buildup, especially in figures stored long-term. Even though Funko boxes have small air holes, they can still trap humidity inside over time.
An action figure showing signs of "sweating"
How to Clean Sticky Funko Pops and Action Figures
If your figure already feels sticky, don’t worry. You can clean it gently using mild liquid dish soap and warm water. Use your hands to wash the surface carefully. Avoid using sponges or brushes, as these might damage the paint or material.
For hard-to-reach spots like joints or tight corners, use a cotton swab (q-tip) dipped in the same soapy water. Gently clean the area, then let the figure dry completely in a well-ventilated, dry place. Make sure it’s fully dry before putting it back in the box or on display, or you could trap new moisture inside.
Final Thoughts
Stickiness doesn’t mean your figure is ruined. It’s just a sign of aging plastic or environmental stress. With proper care by keeping your figures away from sunlight, heat, and humidity. You can slow down the process and keep your collection looking great.
Whether you collect for fun or display, a little maintenance goes a long way in making sure your figures last for years to come.