Preserve Your Comics With These 4 Tips

Although collecting comic books can be a satisfying hobby that lets you keep your favorite stories and art, it has its fair share of challenges. Paper comics, especially the standard 20-page issues, can be vulnerable to the effects of physical handling, aging, and the environment. The following tips will help you delay the impact of these factors and preserve your comics collection for a long time. 

Bag, Board, and Box 

The most popular and reliable method for storing traditional comics involves placing each one inside a polyethylene bag and then carefully inserting an acid-free backing board to support them. This practice ensures that the book is protected against the elements and maintains its firm, flat shape. Store them vertically on a cardboard, plastic, or metal comic box. You can find most of these supplies at your local comic book store or in dedicated websites. 

Store in Safe Environments

Protecting your collection does not end with boxes. Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, humidity, dust, leaks, and pests can wear down or damage the items. Place the boxes in isolated rooms or closets, as opposed to riskier locations such as basements, attics, or anywhere near vents, exposed pipes, and windows. The ideal temperature ranges between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with around 35 percent humidity. If you are interested in comics solely as an investment, a safety deposit box at a bank might be an appropriate solution.  

Handle With Care

The rules for handling comic books with care are always the same, whether you are reading individual issues with saddle stitching binding or hardcover trades with case binding. Clean and dry your hands before touching the books and avoid any contact with food, drinks or tobacco while you are reading. You can prevent folding and creasing by holding the books by their spine and only opening them up to 180 degrees, which is just enough to read the contents.  

Avoid Repair Attempts

When comic books are affected by stains or rips, you may be tempted to repair the damage. Unfortunately, tools such as glue, rubber bands, or tape can further damage the books if used improperly. This is especially risky if you plan on reselling the comics, as repairs can negatively affect the value compared to “natural” damage. However, mending can be appropriate if you want to preserve the book for personal use. 

The writing and art within comics can last a long time, but the books themselves can be rather fragile. Take the time to preserve your beloved possessions so you can maintain your investments or revisit them over time.