Pokémon Cards Save
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As a collector, you know that the value of Pokémon cards can increase over time, but this can only happen if you store them properly. It is important to protect your cards from wear, dirt, moisture, and sunlight. In this article, I will discuss the best ways to store Pokémon cards and give you tips on how to keep them in top condition.
1. Card sleeves: The basics of protection
Let’s start with the basics: card sleeves . This is the first step in protecting your cards, and a must-have for any serious collector. Sleeves protect your cards from scratches, dust, and smudges. This not only prevents physical damage, but also helps preserve your cards in their original condition.
Why sleeves are essential:
Without a sleeve, your card can quickly get scratched. Even small touches can damage the card. The plastic sleeves offer great protection, are cheap and easy to use. You can find them in different types and sizes: matte or glossy, depending on your preference.
2. Binders: Organizing Your Collection
After using sleeves, the next step is to store your cards . The most popular way to do this is to store them in a binder . This makes it easier to organize your cards and quickly browse through your collection.
Why binders are useful:
A 3-ring binder with plastic sheets is ideal for storing cards. It keeps your cards organized and easy to access without damaging them. The plastic sheets protect your cards from the elements and keep them safe.
3. Toploaders: The extra protection
If you have valuable cards, such as a Charizard VMAX or other rare ones, it is wise to store them in toploaders . This hard plastic case offers superior protection against physical damage.
Why toploaders are useful:
Toploaders are great for cards that need extra protection. They are stronger than sleeves and provide an extra layer of protection against bending or breaking. If you have a card that you want to collect or sell, it is smart to put it in a toploader for extra security.
Extra tip:
As with binders, cards in toploaders should be sleeved first to prevent the card from coming into contact with the hard edges of the toploader, which can cause scratches.
4. Where do you keep your Pokémon cards?
In addition to choosing the right storage materials, it is important to store your cards in the right place. There are a few important things to keep in mind.
Avoid direct sunlight
Direct sunlight can not only fade the colors, but it can also damage the structure of the cards. It is best to store your cards in a cool, dry place, such as a drawer or a locked cabinet.
Keep cards out of temperature extremes
Changing temperatures can distort the cards or reduce the quality of the print. Avoid places like basements, attics or other areas that can be too warm or humid. A constant temperature is the best choice.
Protect them from dust
If you store your cards in boxes, make sure the box is sealed tightly. Otherwise, dust can build up, which can affect the quality of your cards. Storage boxes can be a good solution, as long as they are sealed tightly.
5. Additional tips for storing Pokémon cards
- Regular inspection: It is wise to check your cards every now and then. Check for damage or mold. This can help to discover problems early.
- Do not use tape: Tape or other adhesives can damage your cards. Always use mild, non-chemical materials such as plastic sleeves and toploaders. You can use tape on the sleeves so that you can easily remove them from the toploader.
- Be careful when handling : When removing cards from sleeves, wash your hands and use a clean surface. This will ensure that your cards do not get grease or dirt marks.