In order to preserve the comics in your comic book collection and protect their future value, it is important that they are stored and protected properly. Many people overlook the proper storage techniques and are surprised years later just how poor of a condition their possibly valuable comic books are in.

There is much more to storing and preserving comics than just simply sticking them in a box in the attic. That being said, it is also very simple and inexpensive to do it correctly and ensure that the books come out in almost the same condition they went into storage.

When preparing to begin the process of storing your comics, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water before handling your comic books. This is important because the oil from your hands will cause staining that will not be visible initially, but these oils will react with the covers over time. Some people even go as far as to wear gloves when handling their comics.

Here are the things you will need to effectively store your comics:

Comic Book Boxes - these are special acid-free cardboard boxes created specifically for storing comic books. It is not a good idea to store comics in a regular cardboard box.

Acid-free Comic Board Backings - these back boards are important as they will provide support and prevent the corners/edges and spine from bending and wearing. These are acid-free, so they will not react with the comics while in storage.

Comic Book Sleeves - these clear protective sleeves are what will hold the comic book and the acid-free back board. These are made from a few different materials, but it is widely accepted that the Mylar sleeves are superior.

All of the needed supplies are readily available online or in local comic book stores.

Now that you have all of your supplies, it is time to get started.

Step 1: Slide a acid-free back board into each mylar sleeve that is the right size for the comic book that will be stored inside.

Step 2: Put each individual comic into a mylar sleeve cover side out with the acid-free back board inserted. It is important to note that most back boards are only treated on one side - the white side is the acid-free side and is the only side that should ever come into contact with your comics. The mylar sleeve should cover the book much like a clear envelope.

Step 3: Fold the flap on the Mylar sleeve back and tape shut using plain cellophane tape. It is advised to ensure that the flap is being folded to the back of the comic so that there is no chance of the tape accidentally coming into contact with the book - it would only attach itself to the backing board if it accidentally came in contact with something other than the sleeve.

Step 4: Store the comic books standing up in the comic book boxes. Never store them lying down or stacked on top of one another.

Step 5: Place the boxes where they will be least affected by sunlight, drastic temperature changes, humidity or smoke. The attic or basement are both terrible places to store comics, even when all of the above preparations are done. A bedroom closet is actually a great place to store comics.

Believe it or not, thats all there is to it - this simple process will protect your comic book collection for years to come.