How to clean a cake topper

Most of the mess on a cake topper sits on its base, where it touched the frosting.

So go from gentle to stronger. Remove what you can while it is dry. Use water only on what is left, and never more than a damp cloth. If it stood on a clear disc, lift both off the cake together.

To see how a figure stands on a disc, read how to insert a cake topper.

• A plastic spatula or a paper towel
• Cotton swabs and a soft cloth
• A bowl of lukewarm water with a drop of mild dish soap
• A clean, dry towel

1. 1. Take it off the cake

   Take the topper off before the top tier is boxed or frozen. Hold it by the base, not the figure.

   The topper still on the cake after the cake is cut.

2. 2. Scrape off the frosting

   Lay the figure on a paper towel. Slide a plastic spatula along the base and lift the frosting away. Leave a thin film for the next step.

   A plastic spatula lifts frosting off the base.

3. 3. Dab with a damp swab

   Dip a swab or a soft cloth in the soapy water and squeeze it out. Dab or roll it over the base. Do not scrub. Try it on the underside first.

4. 4. Let it air dry

   Stand it on a dry towel, out of direct sun. Let it dry fully before it goes in a box.

Our toppers are not food-safe.

To see what can touch the cake, read is a cake topper food-safe.

Never press on thin parts like hands or glasses. It is better to leave a speck of dust than to snap a piece off.

Not every topper takes water. One maker of painted figure toppers says its paint is not waterproof, so the figure must not be washed. If yours came with care notes, follow them.

• The dishwasher. Its heat and strong soap can soften or dull a figure.
• Scouring pads and steel wool. They scratch.
• Acetone, including nail polish remover.
• Leaving it to soak.

Once it is fully dry, wrap it in tissue paper and keep it in a dry, cool place. On a shelf, keep it out of direct sun.

For dust later, start dry. Use a soft brush, or a hand air blower for tight spots. Skip canned air.

Can I use rubbing alcohol on it?

Care guides for painted figures list rubbing alcohol as one to avoid. Soap and a little water are enough for frosting.

Can we put it on a cake again, for our anniversary?

Yes, once it is clean and dry. Check it for cracks or faded spots first. It is still not food-safe, so ask your baker for a clear acrylic disc to stand it on.