Below are the exact products I use on a daily basis. You will find other lists out there that recommend a variety of additional products. However, in my opinion, these are the only essential ones you will need.
Long-Term Comic Book Storage
If you won’t be taking the books out often, here is the best option to keep books nice and secure over the long term.
Note: Some people recommend “full backs” backing boards. I never use them, as I find regular bags stored correctly are sufficient. However, if you have exceptionally valuable or fragile books, they are a good option. You can also just double-board your more valuable books.
By the way, if you can find the 7 1/8 regular mylar bags, I prefer them. As of this writing, the only ones available right now are the 7 1/4 archivals.
Short-Term Comic Book Storage
This is the best option if you plan to take the books out fairly often. They won’t fit as snugly, but you also won’t be as likely to damage them getting the books in and out of the bag. I also recommend this size bag and board for CGC submissions. I just send them poly since we won’t be getting them back.
Additional Comic Storage Supplies
Note: I recommend storing books sideways when using a long box, as shown in this video.
- The wall mounts I use are priced reasonably and do the job well.
- For storing my most valuable raw books, I always use a toploader.
- The small 10.5″ easel is what I use to display books. I now use one in my unboxing videos.
- I got the spider-man decal on Etsy, size 22″ x 34″.
- I bought Wolverine on e-Bay, and it comes in a standard 22″ x 22″.
- I have tested every tape imaginable and this is what I use. The tape dispenser is the perfect size to hold it, and it fits nicely on my desk.
Comic Mailing Supplies
- For about 12 or fewer raw books, Gemini mailers inside a legal flat-rate envelope are the way to go. If you are sending extremely valuable books, you may want to just go with the 1095 mailing box and ship it like you would a slab. A Gemini mailer wrapped in bubble wrap inside the box. Make sure there’s no movement inside the box!
- For slabs, I basically follow the shipping method recommended by Shortboxed, shown here in this PDF. I surround the slab with these cardboard sheets found on Amazon. I use this bubble wrap.
Box Photos Courtesy of USPS.Com