How to Store Sealed Boxes and Cards the Right Way

Whether you plan to keep your boxes sealed for years or open them right away, the way you store your collection makes a big difference to its condition and value. Here are the basics every collector should follow.

Storing sealed boxes

• Keep them out of direct sunlight. Sunlight fades box art and can weaken shrink-wrap over time.
• Avoid heat and humidity. A cool, dry room is best. Attics, garages and basements often get too hot or too damp.
• Store boxes flat and upright, and do not stack heavy items on top of them, to avoid crushed corners.
• Use protective cases made for sealed products if you plan to keep boxes for a long time. Acrylic cases are popular for display.

Protecting your cards after opening

• Penny sleeves are the first layer of protection for any card you want to keep.
• Toploaders or semi-rigid holders keep important cards flat and safe.
• Magnetic one-touch holders are great for your best hits and for display.
• Storage boxes and binders made for trading cards help you keep the rest of your collection organized.

Handling tips

Handle cards by the edges with clean, dry hands, and sleeve your best cards as soon as you pull them. Surfaces, corners and edges all affect a card’s condition, especially if you ever plan to send it for grading.

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