Classic video games hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you grew up playing on retro consoles or simply appreciate the nostalgia of old-school gaming, preserving your collection is essential to ensuring its value and functionality for years to come. Proper storage is key to protecting these timeless treasures, as improper conditions can lead to damage, such as scratches, fading, or even total loss.
In this article, we’ll explore how to store classic video games properly to protect their condition, preserve their value, and make them easily accessible. Additionally, we’ll highlight how Self Stor Storage in Toronto offers the best storage solution for classic video game collectors.
1. Properly Clean and Prepare Your Games
Before storing your classic video games, it’s important to clean and prepare them. This helps prevent dust, dirt, and other contaminants from damaging your collection over time.
- Cartridge-Based Games: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down cartridges, removing any dust or grime. For the metal contacts, a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab can be used to remove any corrosion or buildup.
- Disc-Based Games: Clean game discs by gently wiping them with a microfiber cloth in straight lines from the center to the edges, rather than in circles. This minimizes the risk of scratches, which can render the disc unreadable.
- Game Cases and Boxes: Many classic games come in their original cases or boxes, which add to their collectible value. Clean the cases or boxes with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, and avoid using harsh cleaning products that could damage the material.
Once your games and accessories are clean, they are ready to be stored properly.
2. Choose the Right Storage Containers
To protect your collection from damage, it’s essential to choose storage containers that offer both physical protection and environmental control.
- Plastic Storage Bins: Storing your games in sturdy, airtight plastic storage bins is a great way to protect them from dust, moisture, and pests. Be sure to choose bins that are large enough to hold your game collection without causing the cases to bend or warp.
- Game Shelving: If you prefer to keep your collection accessible for display, invest in game shelving that keeps your games organized and easy to access. Be sure to place your games upright and avoid stacking them horizontally to prevent warping.
- Protective Sleeves: For cartridge-based games, consider placing each cartridge in its own plastic sleeve. This helps to reduce the risk of scratches, dust buildup, and exposure to harmful elements. For disc-based games, protective sleeves can help reduce scratches on the discs and cases.
3. Control Temperature and Humidity
Classic video games are highly susceptible to environmental factors, especially temperature and humidity.
Excessive heat can warp plastic cases, while high humidity can lead to moisture buildup, mold growth, or damage to labels and packaging.
- Ideal Temperature: Store your classic video games in a cool, dry place where the temperature remains stable, ideally between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Avoid attics, basements, or garages, where temperatures can fluctuate significantly.
- Humidity Control: Aim for humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Too much humidity can damage paper labels, cause mold, and corrode game contacts. A dehumidifier or silica gel packets can help maintain the proper moisture level.
4. Organize and Label Your Collection
Keeping your collection organized is key to preserving its condition and making it easier to access when needed.
- Catalog Your Games: Create an inventory of your classic games, either digitally or on paper, to keep track of what you have. This is especially useful if your collection is large, as it prevents you from forgetting about certain titles or accidentally buying duplicates.
- Label Storage Bins: If you’re storing games in plastic bins or boxes, label them clearly so you can quickly find what you’re looking for. Grouping games by console or genre can also make it easier to locate specific titles.
5. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colors on game cases, boxes, and labels to fade over time. When storing your collection, make sure it is kept in a dark or shaded area, away from windows and direct sunlight. If you are displaying your collection, consider using UV-resistant protective cases to help shield the games from harmful rays.
6. Keep Accessories and Consoles Protected
While the games themselves are the stars of the collection, it’s equally important to properly store accessories and consoles.
- Consoles: Wrap your retro consoles in soft, anti-static cloths to protect them from dust and scratches. If possible, store them in their original boxes for added protection.
- Controllers and Cables: Use cable ties or Velcro straps to neatly wrap and secure cords. Store controllers and accessories in individual plastic bags or bins to keep them organized and protected from dust.
Self Stor Storage: The Finest Option for Classic Video Game Storage in Toronto
For avid collectors in Toronto, storing classic video games at home may not always be ideal, especially if space is limited. This is where Self Stor Storage comes in as the best storage option for classic video game enthusiasts in the city.
Here’s why Self Stor Storage stands out for your video game collection:
- Climate-Controlled Units: As mentioned, temperature and humidity control are critical for preserving classic video games. Self Stor Storage offers climate-controlled units, which maintain optimal conditions to protect your collection from heat, humidity, and other environmental factors that could damage your games.
- Flexible Unit Sizes: Whether you have a small collection of rare games or an extensive library of consoles, games, and accessories, Self Stor Storage provides various unit sizes to accommodate your needs. You can start with a smaller unit and easily upgrade if your collection grows.
- Top-Notch Security: Self Stor Storage facilities are equipped with 24-hour surveillance, controlled access, and individual unit alarms. You can store your valuable collection with peace of mind, knowing that it is protected from theft and damage.
- Convenient Access: Self Stor Storage offers flexible access hours, allowing you to retrieve or add to your collection whenever needed. With convenient locations across Toronto, accessing your unit is always hassle-free.
- Incredible Discounts: Collecting classic video games is already a significant investment, so affordable storage options are essential. Self Stor Storage offers 50% OFF THREE MONTHS, competitive pricing and flexible rental terms to fit your budget.
Conclusion
Classic video games are a prized possession for many, and preserving their condition requires proper storage. From cleaning and organizing to controlling temperature and humidity, taking the right steps to protect your collection ensures that it remains in pristine condition for years to come. For collectors in Toronto, Self Stor Storage is the best choice for keeping classic video games safe and secure, offering climate-controlled units, top-level security, and flexible, affordable storage solutions.