Comics: Where To Store?

Archival storage for most papers, including comics, follows a few simple guidelines. Getting this right will ensure the security of your collection, but it's a lot trickier than it seems at first. If you mess up, you could end up damaging your collection.

Is acid corroding your collection?

Acid is the enemy of your comic books because it eats away at the paper they're printed on, turning it yellow and weakening it to the point where it falls apart. Unfortunately, comics were not built to last, and most are made of low-quality paper that quickly degrades due to impurities. This process can be slowed down considerably, but improper storage will only hasten the damage.

Here are some quick pointers on storing materials in general:

• Check that everything you plan on storing is acid-free and inert (won't turn acidic over time, like PVC or regular paper).

• Make sure the acidity of any paper or card used in the packaging or backing of your comic is neutralized.

• Be sure that your container offers adequate protection from ultraviolet (UV) light, which can come from sunlight or certain types of artificial lighting.

• Avoid uncomfortable pressure points by ensuring that the enclosure is neither too tight nor too loose.

The 'Bag and board' approach

Comic books have traditionally been stored standing up in a 'bag' with a piece of board to keep them from bending. The comic book collecting community generally agrees that this approach works.

• Because of the clear visuals, handling is simplified and safety is increased.

• Keeps out dirt and insects

• Comics are supported only by themselves and their backing boards when being handled.

Several (in fact, quite a few) things; The backing board must be neutral in pH, free of acid-producing lignin, and buffered to prevent acid damage. Check to see if the bag is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC; you'll recognize the 'plastic smell') or another plastic with plasticisers that will turn acidic; polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyester are all fine, with polyester being the best. Polyester used for archival purposes, also called Mylar and Melinex, is stiffer and clearer than other options.

Comix Armor collecting storage materials are available for purchase from our page here and come in a variety of sizes for bag and board type storage.

Got it under control?

I'm going to set the cat among the pigeons and say that a museum probably wouldn't keep a comic book in bags and boards. I've finally admitted it.

When attempting to preserve paper, it is best practice to keep it in paper form. A museum would protect a comic by placing it in an acid-free folder inside a protective container. If you don't want to view and handle your collection (which can cause damage), this is the best option. After that, a box like this one would be used to lay them flat in storage. If you're not planning on handling your comics, this is a viable option for long-term storage.

Always seek the advice of a professional conservator if your collection includes a particularly valuable comic.