How to Store Comic Books: A Complete Guide.
Comic books are more than just colorful pages of entertainment-they are pieces of history cherished by collectors for their cultural significance and monetary value. Proper storage is essential to preserve their condition, whether you're safeguarding a sentimental keepsake or a rare collectible. Here, we will walk you through how to store comic books to keep them in pristine condition for years to come.
What You Should Do Before Storing Your Comic Books?
Before knowing best way to store comic books, a little preparation goes a long way. Taking the right steps to clean, sort, and protect them ensures they remain safe from damage like creases, tears, or discoloration.
Place Comics on a Workstation
The first step of storing comic books is to know the tips to handle them so that you can avoid any kind of potential damage. Begin with setting up a clean and dry workstation. Before that, wash your hands thoroughly and wear latex gloves so that the oils from your skin cannot transfer to the paper. Now, place a piece of white paper on a table and ensure that coffee or any liquid is eliminated from close proximity.
Sort and Clean the Comic Books
You have set up your workstation. Clean it if needed. You might be equipped with latex gloves, but not everyone knows the right method of cleaning. Clean the dust on the comics from exposed areas like page edges and spine using a brush to keep the mold growth at bay. Don't use any liquid or cleaning agents to avoid irreversible damage to the pages.
Add Backing Boards
The next step of how to store comic books is backing boards to assist in retaining the shape when you are going ahead with the storage of comic books. Inserting acid-free comic book storage boards into comic book sleeves is a must. These boards provide structural support, keeping the comic book flat and reducing the risk of bending or creasing. Ensure you use archival-quality materials to avoid yellowing or deterioration over time.
Best Way to Store Comic Books
Once your comics are prepped, choosing the best way to store comic books is crucial. Whether you're a casual collector or a serious enthusiast, there are several ways for storing comic books that suit your needs and space. So, find the best way to store comic books here -
File Cabinets
If you are looking for a sturdy option, the best way to store comic books is the file cabinets. They can hold large amounts of paper. Their strength makes them an ideal choice for storage of comics. Moreover, file cabinets cannot only keep your collection out of sight but also protect them from damage.
For individuals looking for even more secure, organized, archive storage facility can be the best option for storing comic books. Archive storage is specifically designed for the safekeeping of important documents or collections. These solutions offer easy accessibility to keep your comic books and other items in excellent condition for years to come.
Bookcases/Bookshelves
The comic book bookcase comes under affordable and inexpensive methods to store comics. Place a bookcase in a spot where you have an empty wall. It is advisable to use fixed bookcases instead of adjustable shelves because fixed bookshelves are sturdier than adjustable ones and can support the weight of comics.
Binders
Binders became popular in the 1990s when people started collecting comics. They are cheaper than the classic storage bags and provide extra protection. Look for archival-quality, acid-free protectors to avoid damage. Binders are ideal for collectors who enjoy flipping through their comics without removing them from storage.
Art Printed Comic Boxes
Art-printed comic boxes are one step further from the storage boxes. These are used to store the comic books in an upright position. Before buying the printed comic boxes, ensure that they are buffered and acid-free. It is said to use the smaller ones (20-50 comics), but you can choose according to your choices. Smaller boxes can sustain the weight of the boxes in a better way. And it is wise to choose a storage box made with corrugated paper because it is eco-friendly and made with recyclable materials.
Comic Book Spinner Rack
Want to enhance the visual statement of your home? Spinner Rack is the answer. They are like display stands. However, they are not so common anymore. You can see them as vintage items. So they can be a bit pricey. It is not recommended to use them for long-term storage, but it's a fun way to display part of your collection while keeping them within reach.
Plastic Container
Plastic comic book boxes are the next in the list of how to store comic books. They keep your comics from water and other elements. The storage tactic to follow here is the same as that of cardboard boxes. Store comics in an upright position, and don't stack a lot of them in one container. Besides, label the containers for easy identification. For added convenience and durability, consider renting plastic moving bins, which are not only sturdy but also stackable and easy to transport.
Store Them in a Climate Controlled Storage Unit
If you have an extensive collection of comics and don't have the right space to keep them, it's time to consider a storage facility near you. And the climate-controlled storage facility is your best bet. Such facilities offer the right temperature and humidity levels to keep your comics in the best shape, preserving their value and condition.
Check out urBin's climate-controlled storage spaces to store your prized collection.
Final Thoughts
Storing comic books isn't just about keeping them out of sight; it's about preserving their condition, value, and significance. Whether you opt for decorative art-printed boxes, sturdy file cabinets, or a professional smart storage facility, your comics deserve the care and attention befitting their importance.
So, whether you're a lifelong collector or just starting your journey, follow these tips to protect your comic book legacy-and let those pages of adventure, heroism, and imagination live on!
If you're looking for secure and convenient storage options, consider using urBin Storage. Our storage spaces are perfect for safeguarding comic books and other treasured belongings. Start organizing your collection today and give your comics the care they deserve!