Bagging and boarding comic books is essential for preserving their condition and protecting them from the common forms of damage that can decrease their value over time. Here’s why it’s a good idea:
- Protection from Dust, Dirt, and Oils: Comic books are highly susceptible to dirt, dust, and natural oils from hands, which can stain or damage their pages. Bags create a barrier against these contaminants.
- Prevents Moisture Damage: Moisture can lead to issues like warping or mildew, which ruins paper quality and artwork. Bags keep out excess humidity, helping comics stay crisp and dry.
- Reduces Risk of Physical Damage: Boards add a rigid layer of protection that helps prevent comics from bending, creasing, or getting spine damage. They help keep comics flat, especially when stored together.
- Preserves Colors and Artwork: Exposure to light, especially UV light, fades ink over time. Mylar bags (often used for higher-value comics) are especially good at blocking UV rays, while other types of bags still help reduce light exposure.
- Maintains Value: Well-preserved comics hold their value better, and in many cases, value can increase if they’re kept in mint condition. Serious collectors and resellers expect comics to be bagged and boarded, as this shows they’ve been cared for.
Overall, bagging and boarding is a simple, cost-effective way to protect comics, especially if you’re interested in long-term collection value.