When it comes to putting your comic book collection in long-term storage, making sure the graphic novels remain in good condition until you're ready to read them again is likely your top priority. Here are some tips for prepping and placing your comic books in a storage unit to minimize environmental damage.
Prepping the Comic Books for Storage
The first thing you must do is bag and board your books. This refers to placing each comic into a plastic sleeve with a piece of same-sized cardboard. The sleeve will protect the book from dust, moisture, and bugs, while the cardboard back will keep it from bending, which can lead to tears and wrinkles.
There are several different kinds of plastic sleeves available, but the best type for storage is mylar because it is resistant to a wide range of environmental elements, such as oxygen, mold, and grease. It's a top-of-the-line product, so it's also very expensive, and should probably only be used for your most prized and rare comics.
The next best option is polyethylene. This plastic also prevents a variety of elements from penetrating to the book, though not as many as mylar. However, it's cheaper and suitable for protecting comics you love but that may which not be as valuable.
Prior to putting the comics in the sleeves, give them a thorough dusting to remove any debris. You should also wash your hands before handling the books to avoid transferring oils or dirt to them that could ruin the books while they're in storage.
Lastly, it's best to pack the books in specially designed comic boxes. These boxes store the books upright to stop spine cracking. They can usually hold a large number of comics (e.g., up to 100 or more), making them a good option for big collections.
Get a Climate-Controlled Unit
The second thing you want to do is rent a climate-controlled storage unit. Regular storage spaces are subjected to fluctuating temperatures and humidity, which may result in condensation forming and damage to the books. A climate-controlled unit prevents this by keeping the temperature and humidity at a steady level all year round.
The comics should be put in a cool, dry place, so storing them close to the floor is best. However, be sure to place them on a rack at least a foot off the ground to keep them dry in case the unthinkable happens and your unit floods.
For more information about storing comics or to rent a unit, contact a storage facility like K&L LLC Mini Storage.
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