Most rubber duck collections start with one duck that someone liked too much to put in the bath. A year later there is a shelf. If you want to start one on purpose, this guide covers where to begin, what to buy first and how to keep it from turning into a pile.
What makes a duck collectible?
A collectible duck is made to be looked at. The paintwork is finer, the sculpt is more detailed, and many come in numbered or themed series, so there is always a next one to find. Most of ours are vinyl, with ceramic finishes at the top of the range. We explain the difference in our guide to designer rubber ducks.
Step 1: choose a theme
Collections that feel good have a thread. It does not have to be strict, but one idea makes every purchase easier. A few that work well:
- A series. The seven Jurassic Ducks are a tidy first goal, because you can see exactly how many you need to complete the set. Start with Flipposaurododont or Tonyrannosaurus.
- A character type. The Hero Ducks are masked and ready for action, like Flying Man and Lightning Man.
- A look. The Art Ducks are a numbered series of patterns, which makes them easy to line up on a shelf.
- History and famous faces. The Detailed Ducks include Gladiatore, Toetanchamon, Nefertiti and Marilyn.
- A place. Ducks from Amsterdam or the wider Cities & Countries range double as travel keepsakes.
- Your own job or hobby. The Professions collection has a duck for more than 50 jobs.
Step 2: start small, and buy the one you love
Start with one or three ducks, not thirty. Pick the one you would be happiest to see every morning, not the one you think is the most collectible. A collection built on ducks you actually like never feels like a chore.
Prices make this easy to try. Our small Mini's start at €7 and most standard ducks are €12.95. The Jurassic Ducks are €15 each, Detailed Ducks are €19.95, and the ceramic ducks Ceramic Gold and Ceramic Blue are €24.95. If you combine three or more ducks, mix and match gives 10% off, and 15% off five or more, so a first small shelf is quickly built.
Step 3: add contrast
After the first few ducks, add one from a different series. A dinosaur next to a gladiator is more interesting than a fourth dinosaur, and it tells you which direction you want to go next. The 8000s series is a good second step: armour, helmets, a gold robot called Robot Gold and the ceramic ducks, all heavier and more detailed than the standard range. The Specials, including the B.Duck bobbleheads, are a fun change of pace.
Step 4: give them a place to live
A shelf at eye level beats a box in a cupboard. Group ducks by series, or by colour if you prefer, and leave a little space between them so each one reads clearly. Keep the shelf away from a sunny window, because strong sunlight is not kind to painted surfaces over the years. A soft brush or a slightly damp cloth is enough for dusting.
Vinyl ducks can handle a bath, but collectors usually keep them dry. The ceramic ducks are solid and heavy and are made for the shelf only. Our ducks have a recommended age of 3+, but they are made to be displayed, so keep the heavier ceramic ones out of reach of small children.
Step 5: let it grow
Most collections grow in a pattern: one series gets completed, then a second theme appears, then a gift from a friend adds something unexpected. That is part of the fun. Do not chase completeness from day one. If you want a shortlist to work from, our Rubber Ducks for Collectors selection gathers ducks from all the series above in one place, and the keychains are a small way to take a favourite with you.
Frequently asked questions
How many ducks make a collection?
Three is enough to start. Three ducks on a shelf already look like a plan, and the rest follows from there.
Which duck should I start with?
The one you like looking at most. If you want a clear goal, the seven Jurassic Ducks are a finite series you can complete.
Are collectible ducks suitable for children?
Most are vinyl with a recommended age of 3+, but they are made to be displayed. The ceramic ducks are heavy and not meant for the bath.
Do you ship across Europe?
Yes, we ship across Europe. Delivery options and costs are shown at checkout.
What does it cost to start?
Mini ducks start at €7 and most standard ducks are €12.95. Detailed Ducks are €19.95 and the ceramic ducks Ceramic Gold and Ceramic Blue are €24.95.
What should I add after my first series?
Add one duck from a different series for contrast, for example from the 8000s series, such as Robot Gold, or one of the Detailed Ducks.
Where should I display my ducks?
On a shelf at eye level, away from a sunny window, because strong sunlight is not kind to painted surfaces over the years.
