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How to Store Collectibles Appropriately

When you’ve gone to the trouble of assembling a prized collection, whether it’s of sports memorabilia, artwork, ceramics, textiles, or other valuables, you already know that the condition of a collectible item has a significant impact on its value. Auctioneer Adam Levinsohn from Bond Street Auctions says:’’ knowing how to display and store your items properly is critical to preserving their value because improper conditions can cause irreversible damage.’’ Here are the main things to look out for:

 

1-LIGHT

Excessive light can harm almost any collectible. It fades artworks on paper, textile dyes, and original signatures on collectibles. It can also dry out organic materials like leather, paper, wood, and cloth. Every type of collectible should be kept out of direct sunlight. For added protection, frame works on paper with conservation or museum glass that blocks UV rays. Auctioneer Adam Levinsohn from Bond Street Auctions advises displaying your collectibles in a low-light environment and avoiding leaving display lighting on for extended periods of time.

 

2- TEMPERATURE

Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can destroy your collectibles. As a result, attics and garages are poor choices for storing these items. 64 degrees is the ideal temperature for preserving delicate materials such as paper, wood, and natural fibers. Auctioneer Adam Levinsohn from Bond Street Auctions says:’’ If you’re storing collectibles in your home, 64b degrees is far too cold to be comfortable, but don’t be concerned if you can’t achieve it. Simply locate the room or area of your home that is consistently cool, as this will be the best location to store or display your collection.

 

If you need to relocate your collection to a location with a significantly different temperature than its original location, do so gradually. Sudden temperature changes can cause cracks in ceramic and glass finishes, as well as damage to other types of collectibles.’’

3- HUMIDITY

To preserve collectibles, humidity must be kept at a comfortable level that is neither too damp nor too dry. Mold grows in damp environments, destructive insects breed, and metal rusts. Organic materials shrink, crack, and become brittle when exposed to dry conditions. Whether your items are on display or in storage, you’ll want a perfect balance of humidity (around 50%).

 

4- CHEMICALS

Collectibles should not be cleaned in the same way that other items in your home are. Harsh chemicals can harm delicate materials. Auctioneer Adam Levinsohn from Bond Street Auctions says:’’If you believe your items require care, begin with a gentle dry clean by carefully brushing dust away with a soft paintbrush or blowing it away with a can of dry compressed air held at a safe distance from the item. If you believe that is insufficient, conduct additional research or consult a professional before proceeding. Some items’ value decreases when the aged finish that develops over time is removed, so don’t rush to scrub them clean.’’

Be careful to apply these parameters to protect your collectives!

 

At Bond Street Auctions, we have a reputation for representing the greatest in luxury fine collectibles. These treasures remain the icons of history, and they are not limited to just anyone few people. We invite you to take in the splendor with us at our upcoming events.

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