One of the unique features of a storage unit is the complete lack of windows and light inside of the unit. The darkness helps serve many purposes inside a storage unit, especially when storing various collectibles.
Keeping collectibles in the dark has numerous advantages, including the ability to keep all of the items in mint condition. As you plan out your storage unit use, learn about five different types of collectibles that will stay in better condition when left in the dark and away from natural sunlight.
1. Books
Many people enjoy collecting some of their favorite books, whether they are recipe books passed down from family members or a collection of their favorite novels. Collectible coffee table books often feature detailed arts and pictures a person would not want to fade over time.
When books get exposed to too much UV light, the colors begin to fade and pages begin to turn yellow. When you shop for used books, you can instantly tell which copies are older and have been exposed to a lot of light because of the natural yellow on all the pages.
Along with the darkness of the storage unit, you should place books in solid bins with no clear openings to add extra light protection.
2. Posters
Similar to books, posters may also fade and change their appearance when exposed to too much natural light. When a poster appears in the sun too long, the image may look faded or even bleached as the UV rays break down colors and turn the visuals white.
Poster tubes are an ideal solution in a storage unit, but you should also seek out tubes with padded covers so the edges of the posters do not get damaged. If you want to store your posters flat, use a poster frame, but place the posters upside down in the frame so the color side is not exposed until you are ready to hang the poster up.
3. Action Figures
Action figure collectibles include all types of designs including standard toys and some of the more sought out standalone collectibles like bobble heads or statues. When action figures are kept in their original cases, the bubbles may warp or change color due to exposure to sunlight.
On the inside of the cases, the figure accessories could change or actually form to the figure based on the light exposure and heat. Wrap figures in a light sheet or blanket to protect the plastic and cardboard backing on the figure.
Loose figures should be placed in individual plastic bags and kept away from sun exposure in a storage tote for the best protection. The plastic will naturally turn yellow over time if the items are exposed to UV lighting
4. Trading Cards
Many people still love to collect all types of trading cards from all different types of sports and various things from pop-culture. Trading cards suffer from the same fading and discoloration as books and posters.
If you collect cards to trade and sell, the value of the items may go down if the cards do not look mint condition. A variety of companies sell UV protected card cases that will limit the UV light exposure to the cards. When you use a storage unit, the protector cases add an extra layer of protection for your valuable items.
5. Clothing
From old concert t-shirts to an old family suit passed down over the years, dark areas are an ideal place to store clothes to help prevent wear and fade through the years. Storage units often have enough space for a hanging coat rack.
The darkness inside the unit is typically enough to protect the clothes, but you have the option to add an extra layer of protection with the use of a black garment bag. Some of your most beloved or precious pieces of clothing may hang directly in the garment bag.
To find a storage unit big enough to store all your collectibles, contact us directly at
Tysons Self Storage. We have units and space to store your collectibles and protect them from the harmful UV rays.
