Our prized possessions as children may look quite different from the treasures that kids have today. Before the days of iPads and Squishmallows, we cherished awesome collectibles from our parents and siblings. From sports collectibles and figurines to shoe and sneaker collections, storing these items in a climate-controlled self-storage unit can give you peace of mind while they’re tucked away.

At Trunk Space Storage, we provide expert tips for storing your antique collection and offer advice on proper collectible storage. Learn how to store specific items such as collectible cards, vinyl records, and paper-made items.

Collectibles Versus Collectables

The English language often presents us with challenges that keep us on our toes. One such challenge is the difference between collectibles and collectables. Let’s break it down for you:

1. Collectible. A broad term encompassing any items people collect, regardless of perceived value or rarity. Examples include a high-heeled shoe collection or squirrel-themed figurines.
2. Collectable. Items deemed worthy of collecting by enthusiasts due to their age, rarity, or historical significance. Examples include a set of One Piece collectible cards, early 1900s tintype photographs, or vintage boxed Barbie dolls and other collectible figures.

The Role of Climate Control in Preserving Antiques and Collectibles

When storing your collectibles, the goal is to maintain their condition. You wouldn’t store your football card collection or collectible dolls from the Victorian era outside in a shed, as extreme temperatures and moisture can harm them.

Rapid changes in temperature and humidity can lead to wood cracking, warping of vinyl, and damage to other sensitive materials. For an extra layer of confidence, a climate-controlled storage unit is the way to go. These storage units maintain a consistent internal temperature year-round, helping shield your items from damage caused by changing weather conditions.

Use Proper Packing Materials

Packing materials are an integral part of self-storage, acting as a buffer between your items and any other surfaces they may touch. Acid-free tissue paper, Bubble Wrap, sturdy boxes, and packing peanuts provide additional cushioning.

Vinyl Record Storage and How To Clean Vinyl Records

For some older generations, vinyl records are a blast from the past, while younger generations are getting bit by the vinyl record-collecting bug and listening to classic music. Still, proper vinyl storage is essential when you decide to relocate part of your collection to a storage unit.

Before storing your records, clean them first with an antistatic brush to remove dust. Then, use a record cleaning spray and a velvet cleaning brush to remove debris, and then dry off any remaining cleaner with a microfiber cloth. An antistatic, acid-free inner liner with a plastic outer sleeve preserves your records while repelling static and dust. Don’t forget to store your vinyl vertically to prevent warping and avoid unnecessary pressure.

Stamp and Coin Collecting

Coin and stamp collecting complement each other. Coin collections reveal the historical, cultural, and economic significance of currency worldwide, while stamps showcase the artistic and cultural importance of postal history from various nations.

For your stamp collection, place loose stamps in clear archival-quality sleeves within stamp albums that have acid-free pages. For your coins, use coin flips or holders made of archival-quality, non-PVC materials and place them in a coin collection book. When storing your stamp and coin collection, keep it out of direct sunlight.

Collectible Cards and Comics

Acid-free pages, bags, and packing paper protect vintage magazines, book collections, comic books, and collectible card games. Use plastic sleeves or top-loaders to protect individual NFL collectible cards or your Pokemon card collection, and then place them in a binder. There are many options for binders for collecting cards, whether for baseball card storage or Yu-Gi-Oh! If you want a more accessible alternative, look to trading card storage boxes.

To shelter each comic book, place it in archival-quality bags along with a backing board for added stability. Store them upright in either long or short comic book collection boxes, using dividers to keep them organized. Keep these boxes upright and avoid stacking any other objects on top of them.

Storage for Your Collectibles and Antiques at Trunk Space

Whether you need vinyl album storage, coin collection storage, or collectible card storage, a climate-controlled storage unit is an ideal option to maintain their condition. When you return to your self-storage unit to retrieve your collectible toys, action figures, beer bottle caps, European coin collection, or sports memorabilia, you’ll feel like a treasure hunter unveiling your possessions.

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