You wouldn’t buy new hi-def plasma TV then prop it up in your living room on cinder blocks, would you? Of course not. Hey, if you’re going to spend money on something you’re proud of – whether it’s a new TV or a prized hockey collectible – you know you’ve got to take care of your investment.

This is especially true for cards. Remember, cards, for the most part, are made of paper. And that means they’re fragile, so you want to handle them properly.

So how exactly do you do that?

Use Proper Protection
Hey, when you have a cool card, you’re gonna want to look at it, right? Maybe even show it off to the envious eyes of your friends and co-workers? No problem – but you have to take precautions with your investment. Your basic tools:

Penny Sleeves: inexpensive, soft plastic sheathes that offer the most basic protection against scuffs, and are often used in tandem with…

Semi-Rigids: offer sturdier for cards valued anywhere from $1 to $20, and are extremely affordable.

Top Loaders: As the name suggests, you can drop your better cards right into a thin slot at the top of these sturdier holders. Their sturdier construction makes them a best buy.

Plastic Sheets: The most popular storage method, each sheet holds nine cards in individual slots and fits into any standard binder. Not only are they affordable, but they make for the easiest viewing (and storage) of your prized cards.

Long-Term Storage
Think about how you store your family photographs. If you want to keep your valuable collectibles in prime condition, avoid places that are sunny, damp or hot. All three are natural enemies of paper, and lead to quick deterioration. So, if you’ve got someplace that is relatively dark and dry – like, say, a closet – you’ve got your answer.

Preserving Your Premium Items
Whether it’s a jersey that’s already survived the battles of an NHL game or a seemingly indestructible football helmet, your other collectibles deserve a little TLC, too. There are a variety of holders and cases available to hold everything from mini goalie masks to pennants to baseball bats. While preservation may not be as important with some of these items, the ability to display them nicely is, so don’t shy away from spending a little extra here.