Raggedy Ann and Andy (repair, clothes, value)

[NoNansea]

I have 9 Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls made by my husband’s grandmother. The oldest ones are 45 years old. I want to remove their clothing and wash both the dolls and the clothes. Some of the clothes need a little repair. I hear so much about how cleaning devaluates an item, I don’t know if I should do this or not? Since they are so personal to the family and I have no intention of parting with them, I’m not sure this even matters. I would rather err on the side of caution though. Any thoughts on this?

[Mattie]

The original licensed dolls made by Volland have some value, but quite honestly, your family heirlooms would not sell for more than $10-$20. Go ahead and clean them.

[busydesk]

I think that Mattie is right- since you have no intention of selling them, and the idea is to keep them for your pleasure, then clean them and repair the clothes- look at it as a conservation event for their preservation.

[NoNansea]

I agree. Thank you both.