Board games represent a significant investment, both financially and emotionally. Whether you've spent £100 on a deluxe edition of your favorite strategy game or have a cherished family game passed down through generations, proper care ensures your games remain playable and beautiful for years to come. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share expert advice on protecting, maintaining, and extending the life of your beloved board game collection.
The Enemies of Board Games
Understanding what damages board games is the first step in protecting them. The main threats include:
- Humidity and moisture - Can warp boards, cause cardboard to swell, and damage paper components
- Direct sunlight - Fades colors and weakens materials through UV exposure
- Temperature fluctuations - Expansion and contraction can damage components over time
- Dust and dirt - Accumulates on components and can scratch surfaces during play
- Food and drink spills - Can permanently stain or damage game elements
- Rough handling - Causes unnecessary wear and tear on components
Proper Storage: The Foundation of Game Preservation
Storage Location
Where you store your games matters significantly. Ideal conditions include:
- A cool, dry environment with stable temperature (around 18-22°C is ideal)
- Away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators
- Elevated from the floor to avoid potential water damage
- Away from exterior walls that might develop condensation
Avoid storing games in attics, garages, or basements, as these spaces often experience extreme temperature changes and higher humidity levels.
Storage Position
How you position your games on shelves affects their longevity:
- Store board games flat or vertically on their sides - Never store horizontally with the box on its edge, as this puts pressure on the box and can cause warping
- Don't stack too many games on top of each other - Excessive weight can damage boxes at the bottom of the stack
- Ensure boxes are properly closed - This prevents dust from entering and components from falling out
Box Organization
Proper internal organization prevents damage during storage and makes setup faster:
- Use plastic bags or containers for small components to prevent them from scratching other game elements
- Consider investing in custom inserts designed specifically for your games
- Place heavier components at the bottom of the box and lighter ones on top
- Remove rubber bands from cards and components during long-term storage as they can cause damage
Component-Specific Care
Cards
Cards are often the first component to show wear. Protect them by:
- Sleeving cards with protective plastic sleeves, especially for frequently played games or those with extensive card shuffling
- Handling with clean, dry hands to prevent oils and dirt transfer
- Shuffling gently - consider a table riffle shuffle rather than bending cards
- Storing in dedicated deck boxes for games that come out frequently
There are different grades of card sleeves available, from budget-friendly thin sleeves to premium archival-quality options. The investment is worthwhile for games you play regularly.
Game Boards
The central board is often the most expensive component to replace. Protect it by:
- Handling carefully when folding and unfolding to avoid stressing the creases
- Using a play mat underneath to provide a soft surface
- Avoiding placing drinks directly on the board
- Considering a neoprene overlay for frequently used games
For valuable or vintage games, consider storing the board flat between plays rather than folding it each time.
Miniatures and Plastic Components
Detailed miniatures require special attention:
- Use foam inserts or tackle boxes with customized compartments
- Consider applying a clear sealant to painted miniatures to protect the finish
- Handle by the base rather than delicate parts
- Clean with a soft brush to remove dust rather than wiping, which can break small details
For games with many miniatures like Warhammer or Zombicide, dedicated storage solutions are often worth the investment.
Wooden Components
Wooden pieces have their own care requirements:
- Keep away from excessive humidity which can cause swelling or warping
- Avoid direct sunlight which can fade the stain or paint
- Store in plastic bags or containers to prevent scratching other components
- Handle with clean hands to prevent oils from being absorbed into the wood
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular Maintenance
Preventative care extends the life of your games:
- Dust games and shelves regularly using a microfiber cloth
- Inspect for damage or loose components periodically
- Reorganize boxes if components have shifted during storage
Cleaning Different Components
When cleaning is necessary, use these guidelines:
- Cards: Gently wipe with a barely damp microfiber cloth, never soak or use cleaning products
- Boards: Use a slightly damp cloth with a tiny amount of mild soap if necessary, dry thoroughly before storing
- Plastic pieces: Can be washed with mild soap and water, but ensure they're completely dry before returning to the box
- Wooden components: Wipe with a barely damp cloth, never soak
- Fabric elements: Spot clean with a gentle fabric cleaner, air dry completely
Dealing with Accidents
If the inevitable spill happens:
- Act quickly - the sooner you address it, the better the outcome
- Blot liquid gently rather than rubbing, which can spread the damage
- For severe water damage, allow components to air dry completely before returning to the box
- For stained cards or boards, consider professional restoration for valuable games
Extending the Life of Your Games
Upgrades and Protection Products
Consider these investments for your favorite games:
- Card sleeves in appropriate sizes for your games
- Custom inserts - either commercial products or DIY solutions
- Box bands to keep boxes securely closed
- Plastic overlay sheets for frequently-used player boards
- Component upgrades like metal coins or acrylic tokens that last longer than cardboard versions
Game Night Rules
Establish some basic rules for game sessions:
- Designate a food and drink area separate from the gaming table
- Have everyone wash hands before playing
- Use cup holders or designated drink spots
- Demonstrate proper card handling and component care for new players
Conclusion
Board games are more than just entertainment—they're experiences, memories, and often significant investments. With proper care, your collection can provide enjoyment for decades and potentially become heirlooms passed down to future generations of gamers.
At PvirateSwap, we're passionate about helping you protect your board game investment. We offer a range of game care products, from premium card sleeves to custom inserts and storage solutions. Visit our shop to explore our selection of game preservation accessories, or ask our knowledgeable staff for specific recommendations for your collection.
