How to Properly Care for Your Magnetic Trading Card Holders

Magnetic trading card holders are an excellent way to protect and showcase your valuable sports cards, Pokémon cards, or other collectibles. These holders offer a secure and stylish way to display your cards while keeping them free from dust, scratches, and bending. However, to ensure your cards remain in pristine condition, it's essential to properly care for your magnetic holders. Below are the best practices to maintain your card holders and preserve your prized collection.

1. Choosing the Right Magnetic Holder

Before diving into maintenance, it's crucial to select the appropriate magnetic holder for your card. These holders come in different thicknesses, ranging from 35pt to 360pt, to accommodate cards of varying sizes. Make sure you:

• Choose a holder that fits your card snugly but not too tightly.
• Opt for UV-protected holders if you plan to display cards in areas with natural light.
  

2. Handling Your Magnetic Holders with Care

Proper handling of your trading card holders can prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Follow these tips:

• Always hold the holder by the edges to avoid fingerprints and smudges.
• Use clean, dry hands when handling the holder to prevent oils and dirt from transferring.
• Avoid excessive opening and closing of the holder, as this can weaken the magnetic seal over time.

3. Keeping Your Holders Clean

Regular cleaning of your magnetic holders ensures that they remain clear and free of dust and grime. Here’s how to clean them safely:

• Use a microfiber cloth: Wipe down the surface gently to remove fingerprints and dust.
• Avoid abrasive materials: Do not use paper towels or rough cloths that could scratch the holder.
• Mild soap and water: If necessary, use a damp microfiber cloth with a drop of mild soap to remove stubborn dirt. Dry the holder completely before reinserting the card.

4. Storing Magnetic Holders Properly

Where and how you store your trading card holders affects their longevity. Follow these storage tips:

• Keep them in a cool, dry place: Avoid areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures, which can cause warping or condensation.
• Store vertically: If stacking, place them upright to prevent unnecessary pressure on the cards.
• Use a storage box: Consider investing in a dedicated storage box to keep multiple holders organized and protected from dust.

5. Avoiding Direct Sunlight and Heat Exposure

While many magnetic holders offer UV protection, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can still cause fading and damage to your cards. Ensure that:

• Holders are kept away from windows and strong light sources.
• You use a display case with UV-resistant glass if showcasing your cards.
• Cards are rotated periodically to prevent uneven exposure.

6. Inspecting Your Holders Regularly

Regularly checking your magnetic holders can help catch potential issues before they damage your cards. Look for:

• Scratches or cracks: Damaged holders should be replaced to maintain card protection.
• Magnetic seal issues: If the holder doesn’t close securely, it may be time to get a new one.
• Signs of moisture: Condensation or cloudiness inside the holder could indicate a storage issue.

7. Handling High-Value Cards with Extra Precaution

For particularly valuable or rare trading cards, consider adding an extra layer of protection:

• Store in a fireproof safe: If your collection is high-value, consider investing in a fireproof storage solution.
• Invest in graded cases: Professional grading companies provide tamper-proof holders that ensure maximum protection.

8. Place Magnetic Holder in Resealable Bag

A clear resealable bag can be used to prevent scratching to the magnetic trading card holder while still allowing you to display or view the magnetic card holder. It also provides an extra layer of protection to your trading cards against moisture and other external hazards. You can find resealable bags specifically made for magnetic card holders, or some brands of magnetic trading card holders provide a resealable bag that comes with each holder. If you are interested, Display Zone 35 pt magnetic trading card holders come with a resealable bag for each holder.

Conclusion

Proper care and maintenance of your magnetic trading card holders will not only keep your collection looking pristine but also protect the value of your cards. By choosing the right holder, handling it carefully, keeping it clean, and storing it properly, you can ensure that your cherished collectibles remain in top condition for years to come. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, following these steps will help you enjoy your trading card collection with confidence and peace of mind. If you are wondering what size magnetic card holders you need for your cards, you can check out: A Beginner's Guide to Trading Card Thickness. The most common trading card thickness is 35 pt, but this guide could help you determine what size you need.