Straight black washes will make your figures look dirty - you're better off using a darker shade of whatever the base colour is. For example, if you want to add shading to something that's green, use a darker tone, maybe with some brown mixed in.
You'll need to thoroughly scrub the figures in warm soapy water to get rid of any residual mould release left on there.
As for paint, always use acrylic, never enamel - enamel has a tendency to react with the plastic and will never fully cure (I've got figures that I painted with enamels 15 years ago that are still tacky to the touch). What brand is up to you - I swear by Citadel and Vallejo, but any decent quality paint will do.
It's worth giving the figure a spray with Matt acrylic sealer afterwards, especially if you plan on handling them. It'll protect the paint job and reduce the plasticy shine.
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