If you’re a collector, you know how important it is to store your collectibles properly to ensure they remain in good condition. Whether you want to make sure your treasured items hold their monetary or sentimental value, one of the best ways to protect your collectibles is by using a climate-controlled storage unit.
Here are some specific examples of how to prepare different types of collectibles for climate-controlled storage:
Comic Books
When storing comics, you’ll want to protect them from dirt and oil on your hands. Place each comic in a plastic bag with a backing board to provide extra support against bending. Then, store the comics upright in a sturdy archival safe box with dividers to keep them organized and prevent them from getting damaged.
Stamps
To store stamps, first, sort them by theme or country. Then, use a stamp album or stock book to store your stamps. These books have protective pages with clear plastic sleeves that allow you to view your stamps without handling them. You can also use adhesive stamp hinges to attach your stamps to the album pages. Finally, store the stamp album in a sturdy box to protect it from damage.
Coins
To store collectible coins, first, sort them by type, date, and condition. Then, use coin folders, albums, or holders to store your coins. These products have protective pockets or slots for your coins, keeping them safe from damage. Lastly, store your coin collection in a sturdy sealed container.
Action Figures
Start by dusting off your action figures. Wipe down boxes with a soft dry cloth if they’re still in their original packaging. Then, wrap them in bubble wrap or tissue paper to protect them from scratches and damage. Finally, store the action figures in a sturdy box.
Sports Memorabilia
To store sports memorabilia such as jerseys, balls, and trading cards, you’ll want to use acid-free storage materials to protect items from damage. You can use acid-free boxes, tissue paper, and foam board to provide a safe and protective environment for your items. You may also want to consider using plastic storage bins with tight-fitting lids to keep your items dust-free.
Dolls
To store dolls, wrap them in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap (great for porcelain dolls) to protect them from scratches and damage. You can then place them in a sturdy box to keep them organized and prevent them from getting damaged. If you have large dolls, you may want to consider using a plastic storage bin with a tight-fitting lid to keep them safe and dust-free.
Model Cars
Be sure to dust off your model cars before storing them. You can wrap the model cars in bubble wrap or paper to protect them from scratches and damage. Avoid newspaper though, which can transfer dye to your models. Store the model cars in a sturdy box to keep them organized and prevent them from getting damaged.
Artwork
Prep your artwork for climate-controlled storage by carefully dusting then wrapping it in protective, acid-free materials. Use sheets, paper, or foam, but avoid bubble wrap for oil paintings — it can create humidity that affects them. To store artwork on paper, start by laying it on a flat surface, such as acid-free board or thicker paper and wrap so the artwork is completely covered to keep dust, bugs, or grime away from the surface. Cardboard is good for protecting glass and frames. After wrapping artwork, fold cardboard around the frame to cover it completely and tape it securely, or purchase moving boxes specifically made for framed art.
During the rental process, you’ll also want to make sure you choose enough insurance coverage to protect your treasured items while you’re storing them. As with any policy, check what is and isn’t covered.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your collectibles are properly stored and protected in a climate-controlled storage unit. Download our infographic cheat sheet below for storing your collectibles.
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