If you have a large collection of records, comic books, vintage electronics, or another type of item, you likely work hard to keep these items in pristine condition. While you may have the perfect methods in place to preserve your collection at home, circumstances can change and require you to temporarily relocate your collection to a storage unit. As a leading provider of quality storage unit rentals, the team at LoknStore knows how important proper storage is for collectibles of all types. That is why they have compiled some information to help you understand how to safely store collectibles and keep them in pristine condition for years to come.
Learn about some common self-storage mistakes to avoid.
Storage Tips for 3 Common Types of Collectibles
While certain best storage practices should be followed for every type of collectible, the following items require specific precautions to ensure that they stay in optimal condition:
1. Antiques
Antiques can be defined as old furniture, housewares, art, and other items that have a monetary or sentimental value due to their age and unique nature. If your antiques are constructed from wood, you will need to be mindful of the humidity levels within your storage unit. For antique wood, a humidity level between 35% and 65% is ideal as this will keep it from drying out while minimizing the risk of moisture-based damage like rot or mould. When storing antiques, it is also best to avoid wrapping items in bubble wrap or plastic film as each item needs to breathe. To protect your antiques without damaging them, it is best to opt for breathable fabric covers like sheets or blankets.
2. Vinyl Records
Much like wood, vinyl can be susceptible to extremely low or high humidity. That is why it is best to keep your storage unit’s humidity between 35% and 50%. To further protect your records, place a polyurethane sleeve inside the paper sleeve as this will reduce friction and minimize the chance of wear or damage over time. When handling records, it is also best to only touch the outside edge or the labelled areas as the oils from your skin can damage the vinyl.
3. Comics and Trading Cards
Comic books and trading cards are commonly collected items that can hold a lot of monetary and sentimental value for the collector. To keep these items in pristine condition, it is best to minimize any direct handling as the oils from your skin can cause damage to the paper. To keep your collection safe, utilize clear plastic sleeves and specialized storage boxes/books while maintaining a humidity level of around 50%.
To learn more about their storage unit rentals or for assistance choosing the perfect solution for your needs, get in touch with the team at LoknStore. They can be reached through their online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding their storage solutions.