Ogdensburg New Jersey Self Storage | Mini Storage | Storage Units | AA1 Self Storage

You already know that our Sussex County, NJ storage units offer the perfect solution to clearing out the clutter in your home. But when it comes to self-storage for collectible items such as heirlooms, antiques, comic books and vinyl records, and even toys, there are a few extra things to consider. Storing collectibles is equal parts of expert knowledge and common sense. And we can help with that knowledge part. Check out these expert tips for collectible storage to start things off on the right foot.

General Wisdom

While each collectible comes with a set of specific storage recommendations that should be followed, there are a few general guidelines every collector can use to help keep their hoard in pristine condition throughout the packing and storing process.

Most collectibles are sensitive to the environment in one way or another. Changes in temperature and humidity can greatly affect the condition of collectibles whether they be comic books or cars. Extreme temperatures or fluctuations in temperature can do serious damage to your collection even if it’s packed appropriately. Remember this rule of thumb; if you’re comfortable in the same room as your collectibles, then it’s a suitable temperature.

Just like with temperatures, extreme humidity and fluctuations in humidity can also cause serious damage to your collectibles. Without any instruments to measure relative humidity, it’s safest to simply avoid attics and basements, and if you’re choosing a storage facility, make sure you choose climate-controlled storage units.

Getting specific

For each type of item, there is a set of best practices for storage that all collectors should follow to ensure that their treasured possessions stay in top shape. While we can’t go into each and every collectible item, we can give you some suggestions for a few of the more sensitive and popular collectible objects.

Vinyl records are experiencing a revival. The trends suggest that as time passes their value will only continue to rise. So, make sure you take good care when storing your musical mementos. For vinyl, the optimum temperatures are around 50 degrees and 35 percent relative humidity. They are also best stored upright and organized according to size. To make them really last, we suggest covering both the record and then the cover with polyethylene sleeve.

Those toys and action figures you loved as a kid, are just as loveable to collectors today. They can be very valuable but are often a passion. The general rule for toys and action figures is to avoid direct sunlight, that can fade and damage materials. Keeps the bugs away by inspecting your collection on a regular basis. Bugs are often attracted to toys and can make holes in them. And finally, don’t put your toys in an airtight bag. It seems like a good idea, but if there is even a small amount of moisture left it can turn to mold.

Coveted by collectors around the world, comic books and trading cards are perhaps some of the more fragile collectibles. These thin paper treasures often become testaments to times passed. If you are a collector of comic books or trading cards, you’ll want to take all of the necessary steps to keep them preserved for years to come. First, both comic books and trading cards should be stored in individual sleeves. For trading cards, it’s best to do this with a binder and clear sleeve pages. Comic books should be placed in individual sleeves and stored in boxes or specialized comic bookcases. Both of these types of paper collectibles do best in cool, dry places with temperatures slightly below room temperature and humidity levels sitting right around 50%.

Regardless of your reason for starting a collection of some sort, everyone has one goal in mind, and that is to keep the collectibles in the best condition possible while they are in your possession! Want more information on how to store your items, take a look at our storage tips or reach out to us!

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