Angie's LIST Guide to
Toy repair

Toys worth repairing often have sentimental value, monetary value, or both. Heirlooms are often worthy of repair. You may cherish a toy that has passed through generations of your family as you consider it an heirloom. You repair the item to keep it from disintegrating and to pass it on to future generations.

Another reason to fix a toy is if the work will enhance the value of the toy beyond the cost of the work. As the toy's owner, you then have financial gain. It's also a good idea to repair the item if doing so is cheaper than buying a new replacement toy.

On the other hand, replacement is preferable when the toy has damage beyond repair. As well, you may not always be able to find parts that are necessary to fix the toy from the manufacturer or from aftermarket suppliers. This problem exists for many toys that are no longer in production.

Replacement is also favorable over repair when you are able to buy a new toy for substantially less than the cost to fix the item.

There are repair specialists licensed for the toy trade who have extensive knowledge about toys. Another option is to hire a handyman who has related repair experience. Some handyman service companies include repairs of toys within the list of services. Research companies on Angie's List to read real user reviews.

If the toy has a defect, contact the manufacturer to ask if the company will repair or replace the toy for you. Some companies will repair the item free of charge as part of the return policy.

For damaged dolls, you can enlist the services of a doll hospital. A doll hospital is a professional repair and restoration facility. The dolls are patients at the hospital and the repair professionals are doctors. When you take a doll to the facility the toy recovers from injuries such as broken limbs and physical disfigurement.