As a collector you know that the value of Pokémon cards can go up over time, but only if you store them properly. It matters that you protect your cards against wear, dirt, moisture and sunlight. In this article we go through the best ways to store Pokémon cards and give you tips to keep them in top condition.
1. Card sleeves: the basis of protection
Let us start with the basics: card sleeves. This is the first step in protecting your cards, and a must for every serious collector. Sleeves protect your cards against scratches, dust and smudges. That does not just prevent physical damage, it also helps keep your cards in their original condition.
Why sleeves are essential:
Without a sleeve your card picks up scratches quickly. Even light handling can damage it. Plastic sleeves give solid protection, they are cheap and they are easy to use. You can get them in all sorts of types and sizes: matte or glossy, whichever you prefer.
2. Binders: organising your collection
Once your cards are sleeved, the next step is storing them. The most popular way to do that is in a binder. It makes organising your cards easier and lets you flip through your collection quickly.
Why binders are handy:
A 3-ring binder with plastic sheets is ideal for storing cards. It keeps your cards organised and easy to reach without damaging them. The plastic sheets protect your cards from the elements and keep them safely tucked away.
3. Toploaders: hard cases for your Pokémon cards
If you own valuable cards, such as a Charizard VMAX or other rare pieces, it is smart to keep them in toploaders. This hard plastic holder gives far better protection against physical damage.
Why toploaders are handy:
Toploaders are great for cards that need extra protection. They are stronger than sleeves and add another layer of protection against bending or breaking. If you have a card you want to keep or sell, it is smart to put it in a toploader for extra safety.
Extra tip:
Just like with binders, cards going into toploaders should be sleeved first. That keeps the card from touching the hard edges of the toploader, which can cause scratches.
4. Where do you store Pokémon cards?
Besides picking the right storage materials, it matters where you keep your cards. There are a few important things to watch out for.
Avoid direct sunlight
Direct sunlight does not just fade the colours, it can also damage the structure of the cards. It is best to keep your cards somewhere cool and dry, such as a drawer or a closed cabinet.
Keep cards away from temperature extremes
Swings in temperature can warp the cards or degrade the print quality. Avoid spots like basements, attics or other rooms that can get too warm or too damp. A constant temperature is the best choice.
Protect them from dust
If you store your cards in boxes, make sure the box closes properly. Otherwise dust builds up, and that can affect the quality of your cards. Storage boxes are a good solution, as long as they close properly.
5. Extra tips for storing Pokémon cards
- Check them regularly: it is smart to go through your cards now and then. Look for damage or mould. That way you spot problems early.
- Do not use tape: tape and other adhesives can damage your cards. Always use mild, non-chemical materials such as plastic sleeves and toploaders. You can put a piece of tape on the sleeve itself, so you can pull it back out of the toploader easily.
- Handle them carefully: when you take cards out of their sleeves, wash your hands and work on a clean surface. That keeps grease and dirt marks off your cards.
