When storing valuable baseball cards, proper protection and preservation is key to maintain the condition and value of the cards over long periods of time. Some of the most important things to consider when storing baseball cards include the following:
Storage Location: Choose a storage location away from direct sunlight, high heat sources like furnaces or water heaters, attics that experience extreme temperature fluctuations, and areas prone to flooding or water damage. Basement storage is usually best if the area stays cool and dry. Sunlight can cause fading and warping of the cardboard over time, while high heat, humidity fluctuations and water damage can all deteriorate the physical quality of the cards.
Organization and Protection: Organize cards by set, year, team or player in enclosed holders, books or boxes for protection. Ultra Pro One-Touch magnetic holders, toploaders, or screwdown holders provide rigid protection for individual high-end cards. Store sets, teams or player collections in baseball card boxes, binders orAlbums with acid-free plastic pages designed for cards. The enclosures protect from fingerprints, scratches and maintain the shape of the cardboard over the long run.
Security: For extremely valuable collections, additional security measures may be considered. Store in a home safe bolted to structural beams or use a safety deposit box at the bank. Consider installing a home security system as well if storing tens of thousands or more in cards. Proper security significantly reduces theft risk to collections worth thousands or more.
Environmental Controls: For truly long-term storage of Heirloom collections to be passed down, environmental controls are ideal. Install a dehumidifier or humidity control packs to maintain 40-50% relative humidity levels. Fluctuating humidity can cause warping, sticking and premature aging of cardboard over decades. Temperature should remain steady between 60-70°F. Use an air conditioner, heater or temperature control system as needed depending on climate.
Archival Supplies: Acid-free materials should always be used for long-term storage to prevent deterioration. This includes acid-free pages, binders, boxes and holders. Ordinary paper products contain acid that break down cardboard over 50+ years. Specialty archival supplies are made with alkaline buffers to neutralize acidity. Polyethylene wrappers and mylar sleeves also provide a protective barrier from contaminants.
Cleaning & Handling: Always handle valuable cards by the edges and corners to avoid fingerprints on surfaces. Wear clean, lint-free cotton gloves if possible for added prevention of skin oils. Dust cards periodically with a soft-bristled brush or compressed air to remove dust buildup. Never use water or chemical cleaners that could damage the surface. Maintain a clean storage area also to avoid dirt/pest contamination.
Inventory & Organization: Maintain a full digital and hardcopy spreadsheet inventory of all cards with values, condition grades, set/year details and storage locations for insurance purposes. Consider having top cards professionally graded and authenticated by PSA or BGS for warranty of condition and authenticity. Organize by value and condition to easily monitor your most prized pieces.
Insurance: Once a collection reaches significant value, insuring it with a specialty collector’s insurance policy provides protection against hazards, theft and damage. Rider policies can usually be added to existing homeowner’s coverage. Work with your agent to accurately value your collection based on replacement costs to insure for the appropriate amount. Properly stored and insured, valuable baseball card collections can maintain their worth for generations of collectors and fans to enjoy.
