Complete Guide to Figure Maintenance | Thorough Explanation from Yellowing, Color Transfer, Dust Prevention to Storage Methods

To keep the figures you have carefully collected beautiful for a long time, proper maintenance is essential. Figures can suffer from various issues such as yellowing, color transfer, and dust accumulation due to aging. This article systematically explains the knowledge necessary for maintenance, from the characteristics of different materials to specific storage methods and daily care. It provides practical information that anyone, from beginners to long-time collectors, can start implementing today.

Why Figure Maintenance is Important

If figures are not properly managed, their appearance and quality can significantly deteriorate over time. To maintain their value as a collection and enjoy them for a long time, it is important to understand the mechanisms of deterioration and to make preventive maintenance a habit.

Main Types of Deterioration in Figures

There are six main types of deterioration in figures. Yellowing and discoloration is a phenomenon where white or light-colored parts turn yellow due to UV rays or oils. Color transfer occurs when parts come into contact with each other, causing pigments to move and appear dirty. Stickiness arises when plasticizers within the material seep to the surface. Paint peeling is deterioration where the paint surface chips due to friction or drying. Dust accumulation occurs when fine dust accumulates on the surface due to static electricity, detracting from the aesthetic appeal. Finally, mold occurs in high-humidity environments and can be difficult to remove once it spreads.

What Happens if Maintenance is Neglected?

Neglecting maintenance can lead to gradual deterioration that is not noticeable in the early stages, ultimately resulting in an irreparable state. Yellowing can sometimes be improved with cleaning if caught early, but if it progresses deeply, it results in a change in the material itself that cannot be reversed. If color transfer is left unattended, the pigments can seep in, making complete removal impossible. Stickiness is a sign of deterioration not only on the surface but also internally, and if not addressed, it will continue to worsen. Furthermore, if the condition of the figures deteriorates, the asset value of the collection will significantly decrease, directly affecting the appraisal value at the time of sale.

Understanding the Materials and Their Characteristics

To effectively maintain figures, it is essential to first understand the characteristics of the materials. The risks of deterioration and appropriate care methods vary by material, so check what material your figures are made of. Common materials include PVC, ABS resin, resin, and soft vinyl, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Characteristics and Precautions of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is an abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride and is the most widely used material for figures. It is flexible and easy to mold into complex shapes, making it particularly suitable for movable parts of scale figures and action figures. PVC contains additives called plasticizers, which provide flexibility but also become a major cause of deterioration. Plasticizers seep to the surface over time, causing stickiness and color transfer. Additionally, in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, the bleeding of plasticizers accelerates, so special care is needed for storage conditions. It is also vulnerable to UV rays, and prolonged exposure to light increases the risk of yellowing and deformation.

Characteristics and Precautions of ABS Resin

ABS resin is a hard and durable material used for model kits, figure bases, and hard parts. While it has a lower risk of stickiness and color transfer compared to PVC, it is very susceptible to yellowing from UV rays. In particular, white or light-colored ABS resin parts can show visible yellowing within a few months just by being placed near windows or fluorescent lights. Although it is highly durable, it is prone to cracking under impact, so care should be taken to avoid drops or strong pressure.

Characteristics and Precautions of Resin and Soft Vinyl

Resin allows for precise modeling and is used in garage kits and high-end figures. It excels in detail reproduction but is heavy and brittle. It can easily break if dropped, so extreme care is required when handling it. Additionally, aging can cause cracks to develop internally. On the other hand, soft vinyl is a highly flexible material used in monster figures and some action figures. It can easily deform, so if stored in the same position for a long time, there is a risk of losing its shape. Regularly changing poses or using supports can help prevent deformation.

How to Prevent Yellowing and Discoloration in Figures

Yellowing of figures is one of the most common types of deterioration, and once it progresses, it is difficult to reverse. By understanding the main causes of yellowing and taking appropriate preventive measures, you can keep your figures in beautiful condition for a long time. UV protection and optimizing the storage environment are key to preventing yellowing.

For more detailed yellowing countermeasures, we provide a thorough explanation in the Complete Guide to Figure Yellowing and Sunburn Prevention.

Main Causes of Yellowing

The biggest cause of yellowing is ultraviolet (UV) rays. Not only direct sunlight but also fluorescent lights emit UV rays, and prolonged exposure can change the chemical structure of plastic, causing it to yellow. Next, oils can also cause yellowing. If release agents or machine oils used during manufacturing remain on the surface, they can oxidize and lead to yellowing. Skin oils from touching the figures also pose a similar risk. Additionally, heat is a factor that accelerates deterioration; in high-temperature environments, the molecular structure of the material becomes unstable, hastening yellowing. Furthermore, in smoking environments, tobacco tar can adhere and cause yellowing, so smoking in the collection room should be avoided.

Specific UV Protection Measures

The most effective way to prevent yellowing is through UV protection measures. Using a UV-cut case is the most reliable method, and by choosing products that cut over 99% of UV rays, you can protect your figures for a long time. If a case cannot be used, applying UV-cut film to window glass can reduce the intrusion of UV rays into the room. The placement of the figures is also important. Avoid direct sunlight completely and place them away from windows. If displaying near a window, using blackout curtains to block UV rays during the day is effective. Additionally, reviewing the lighting is also important for yellowing prevention.

Recommended UV-Cut Case Selection

There are mainly two types of UV-cut cases: acrylic cases and glass cases. Acrylic cases are lightweight, shatter-resistant, and affordable, making them recommended for beginners. On the other hand, glass cases have a luxurious feel and are less prone to scratches, but they are heavier and more expensive. Regardless of which you choose, select products that indicate a UV cut rate of 99% or more. Choosing a case with a mirror on the back allows you to enjoy the figure's back view as well. Choose a size with some leeway to ensure the figure does not feel cramped.

Benefits of Switching to LED Lighting

Fluorescent lights contain UV rays, so it is recommended to switch to LED lighting for illuminating figures. LEDs emit almost no UV rays and generate little heat, minimizing their impact on figures. Especially when installing lighting inside a collection case, LED is the only option. When choosing LED lighting, pay attention to the color temperature as well. Daylight white (around 5000K) provides a natural color that accurately shows the figure's paint. Incandescent (around 3000K) creates a warm atmosphere, but be cautious as it can alter the perception of colors.

Measures and Care Methods to Prevent Color Transfer

Color transfer is likely to occur at the points where figures come into contact with each other, and once it happens, it is difficult to remove. This is particularly true for PVC figures, where prolonged contact between parts can cause pigments to migrate, making white or light-colored areas appear dirty. To prevent color transfer, it is essential to understand the characteristics of the materials and take appropriate protective measures.

For detailed prevention methods and countermeasures for color transfer, we introduce specific steps in the Complete Guide to Figure Color Transfer Prevention.

Mechanism of Color Transfer

Color transfer is a phenomenon where plasticizers contained in PVC act as a medium for pigment migration. Plasticizers are additives that keep the material soft, but over time they seep to the surface and dissolve the pigments of other parts in contact, incorporating them. Color transfer is particularly noticeable from dark colors (black, red, blue, etc.) to light colors (white, skin tones, pastel colors), frequently occurring where hair parts touch the face. Color transfer is more likely to occur with soft PVC parts, and in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, the movement of plasticizers accelerates, so extra caution is needed during summer and rainy seasons.

Protection with Renaissance Wax

The most reliable method to prevent color transfer is the use of Renaissance Wax. This wax has a proven track record of being used to protect artworks at the British Museum and has become a staple item among figure enthusiasts. Renaissance Wax forms a thin protective film on the surface of the parts, physically blocking the movement of plasticizers. The application method is simple: take a small amount on a soft cloth, apply it thinly and evenly on the surface of the figure, wait a few minutes, and then gently buff it dry with a clean cloth. It is essential to follow the rule of "a small amount applied thinly" to avoid the risk of whitening. The effect lasts for about 3 to 6 months, allowing for long-term protection through regular reapplication.

Other Color Transfer Prevention Measures

In addition to Renaissance Wax, there are color transfer prevention measures that can be practiced daily. The simplest method is to insert vinyl or cooking paper between parts. By placing thin transparent vinyl or cooking paper in areas where parts come into contact, direct contact can be avoided. However, since it can affect the appearance, it should only be used in inconspicuous areas. Additionally, when displaying figures, it is important to devise methods to secure parts without contact. Using stands or wires to elevate parts or adjusting poses to minimize contact area can reduce the risk of color transfer. The storage environment is also directly related to preventing color transfer. By avoiding high temperatures and humidity and maintaining a temperature of 20-25°C and humidity below 50%, the bleeding of plasticizers can be suppressed. Furthermore, by regularly changing poses instead of leaving them in the same position for long periods, the burden on specific areas can be distributed, preventing color transfer.

Daily Dust Prevention and Maintenance

Dust not only detracts from the aesthetic of figures but can also damage the paint surface if left unattended, creating a vicious cycle that attracts more dust due to static electricity. Daily dust prevention is fundamental to figure maintenance, and having the right tools and a routine cleaning habit is essential.

Detailed techniques and tools for dust prevention are thoroughly explained in the Complete Guide to Figure Dust Prevention and Cleaning.

Risks of Leaving Dust Unattended

If dust is left unattended, it first detracts from the aesthetic, making it difficult to see the fine details of the figure. Furthermore, because dust consists of fine particles, when it adheres to the paint surface, it can cause damage to the paint. Especially when combined with moisture, dust can become a breeding ground for mold, and once mold occurs, it becomes very difficult to remove. Additionally, dust tends to carry static electricity, making it easier to reattach due to static electricity once it has adhered, so frequent removal is essential.

Tools for Dust Removal and Their Uses

There are various tools for dust removal, and it is important to choose the right one based on the material and shape of the figure, as well as the degree of dirt. The anti-static brush is the most basic tool that can remove dust while eliminating static electricity. The blower is a tool that blows air by pressing a rubber bulb, making it suitable for blowing dust out of small gaps. The air duster is a spray can type that can remove dust with powerful air, but it is important to choose a non-fluorocarbon type for environmental considerations. The makeup brush has soft bristles and can remove dust from details without damaging the paint surface. The slime cleaner is a sticky gel cleaner that adheres to dust on figures with many irregularities. However, care must be taken as using it directly on the paint surface may cause the paint to peel off.

How to Use an Anti-Static Brush

A representative product of the anti-static brush is the Tamiya Model Cleaning Brush. This brush has two types of bristles (stiffer and softer), allowing you to brush off larger dust with the stiffer bristles and carefully clean details with the softer bristles. By lightly rubbing the brush on your palm before use, you can charge it with static electricity, making it easier to attract dust. When touching the figure, move it gently without applying force to remove dust without damaging the paint surface. After use, remove the dust that has accumulated on the brush itself and store it cleanly.

Choosing a Blower and Air Duster

Blowers are a manual, reusable option, making them an economical and environmentally friendly choice. A blower designed for cameras is also suitable for figures, and choosing a type with a fine tip increases accessibility to details. Air dusters are spray can types that can produce a stronger airflow than blowers, but be sure to choose a non-fluorocarbon type. Fluorocarbons have a negative impact on the environment. Additionally, using an air duster upside down can spray liquid, which may damage the figure, so always keep the can vertical while using it.

Frequency and Timing of Regular Cleaning

Establishing a routine for cleaning figures is important. For light cleaning once a week, gently brush the surface with an anti-static brush to remove noticeable dust. This alone can significantly prevent dust accumulation. For thorough cleaning once a month, use a blower or air duster to meticulously remove dust from every crevice. By taking the figures out of their cases and cleaning them carefully, you can also care for often overlooked areas. Furthermore, for thorough seasonal cleaning (four times a year), if the figures can be disassembled, it is advisable to clean each part and apply protective treatments like Renaissance wax.

Preventing Dust with Case Storage

The most effective measure against dust is case storage. By placing figures in acrylic or glass cases with minimal gaps, you can greatly reduce dust accumulation. Since the inside of the case is not completely sealed, it is recommended to open the case about once a month for ventilation and to clean any dust inside. The outside of the case also collects dust, so regular wiping is necessary. Storing figures in cases not only protects them from dust but also from UV rays and humidity, providing a threefold benefit.

Washing Figures with Water and Cleaning Methods

Water washing is effective for sticky or stubborn dirt on figures. However, washing incorrectly can risk paint peeling or material degradation. It is important to understand the correct procedures and precautions to wash safely.

Timing for Water Washing

The timing for water washing figures is when stickiness occurs, dust is stuck and cannot be removed with an anti-static brush, or visible dirt is prominent. Stickiness is caused by the bleeding of plasticizers, and simply wiping the surface does not provide a fundamental solution, making water washing effective. If dust has adhered due to moisture or oil, it can also be removed with water washing. However, for figures with weak paint or materials that are sensitive to water (such as paper decorations), water washing should be avoided.

Correct Water Washing Procedure

The basic steps for water washing are as follows. First, prepare lukewarm water (35-38 degrees Celsius). Water that is too hot risks deforming the figure, so lukewarm water at body temperature is optimal. Next, add a few drops of neutral detergent and gently lather. Immerse the figure and wash gently with a soft sponge or your fingers. Applying too much force may cause the paint to peel, so wash gently. If the stickiness is severe, soaking is effective. Soaking the figure in lukewarm water mixed with neutral detergent for 12-24 hours will dissolve the surface stickiness. After washing, ensure to rinse thoroughly to remove any detergent residue. Finally, lightly pat the figure dry with a towel and allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight and hair dryers.

Recommended Neutral Detergents

For washing figures, dishwashing neutral detergents (such as Kyu Kyu Tto or Joy) are convenient and effective. They are low in irritation and have the ability to remove oils. If you seek a gentler cleaning option, baby detergent is also a choice. It is low-irritation enough to be used on a baby's skin, minimizing the impact on paint. Additionally, there are dedicated figure cleaners available on the market that are designed for high safety.

Prohibited Actions During Water Washing

There are several actions that should absolutely be avoided during water washing. First, using boiling water is strictly prohibited. It can deform the figure or cause paint to peel. Next, avoid using ethanol or alcohol. These substances can dissolve plastic, leading to whitening of the surface or removal of paint. Drying with a hair dryer also poses a risk of heat damage. Additionally, rubbing vigorously can cause paint to peel, so always handle gently. Finally, avoid excessive contact with painted areas, especially where decals (sticker-like decorations) are present, and handle those parts with care.

Measures Against Stickiness and Addressing Plasticizer Bleeding

Stickiness is a degradation specific to PVC figures, characterized by a sticky surface. This occurs when plasticizers within the material seep to the surface, and if left unattended, it worsens. Understanding the mechanism of stickiness and properly removing and preventing it is essential.

Causes and Mechanism of Stickiness

The cause of stickiness is plasticizer bleed. Plasticizers are chemicals added to keep PVC soft, but over time and in high-temperature, high-humidity environments, they migrate from within the material to the surface. This phenomenon is called bleed, and the plasticizers that seep to the surface have adhesive properties, which is felt as stickiness. Due to aging, plasticizers gradually volatilize and move, making older figures more prone to stickiness. Particularly in high temperatures during summer or high humidity during the rainy season, the movement of plasticizers can accelerate, leading to rapid progression of stickiness.

How to Remove Stickiness

The most reliable method to remove stickiness is the aforementioned soaking with neutral detergent. Soaking for 12 to 24 hours allows the stickiness on the surface to dissolve in water, which can then be rinsed away. The longer the soaking time, the more effective it is, but it is recommended to limit it to 24 hours to avoid affecting the paint, as soaking for more than 48 hours may have an impact. For mild stickiness, simply wiping with non-alcoholic wet wipes can improve the condition. However, avoid using alcohol-containing wet wipes as they can damage the paint; always choose non-alcoholic types. For stubborn stickiness, you can gently rub with a damp melamine sponge (like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser), but since it has abrasive properties, use it carefully on painted surfaces and test it on inconspicuous areas first.

Preventing Recurrence of Stickiness

Even after removing stickiness, if the storage environment is poor, it can recur. To prevent recurrence, improving the storage environment is essential. Maintaining a temperature of 20 to 25°C and humidity below 50% can suppress plasticizer bleed. Utilize air conditioning and dehumidifiers, especially during summer and the rainy season, to manage temperature and humidity thoroughly. Additionally, regular ventilation about once a month is important. In a sealed space, plasticizers can vaporize and accumulate, so opening the case to let in fresh air can slow the progression of stickiness.

Ideal Storage Environment and Conditions

To keep figures beautiful for a long time, optimizing the storage environment is the most important factor. By properly managing the four elements of temperature, humidity, light, and location, you can significantly delay degradation. Establishing an ideal storage environment is the foundation of all maintenance.

Optimal Temperature and Humidity

The optimal temperature for storing figures is 20 to 25°C, and the humidity is 40 to 60%. Maintaining this range can prevent plasticizer bleed, mold growth, and material deformation. If the temperature is too high, PVC can become soft and prone to deformation, while if it is too low, it can harden and become brittle. High humidity can lead to mold growth, while low humidity increases the risk of paint drying and cracking. It is recommended to install a thermometer and hygrometer in the storage area to monitor conditions continuously. Utilize air conditioning and dehumidifiers, especially during the rainy season and midsummer, to manage humidity and temperature thoroughly.

Consideration for Direct Sunlight and Lighting

Direct sunlight is the greatest enemy of figures. It can cause yellowing from UV rays, deformation from heat, and fading all at once. Avoid windows completely and choose places like the back of the room or along the north wall where sunlight does not reach. If displaying near a window, use blackout curtains to block UV rays during the day. Lighting is also an important factor; fluorescent lights contain UV rays, so switching to LED lighting is recommended. LED lighting emits almost no UV rays and generates less heat, making it a figure-friendly lighting option.

Choosing a Storage Location

The ideal storage location for figures is a cool, dark place. Specifically, choose a location that is not exposed to direct sunlight, has minimal temperature fluctuations, and does not trap moisture. While closets or storage spaces may seem good, if ventilation is insufficient, moisture can accumulate, making monthly ventilation essential. Additionally, cardboard storage is not recommended as it has poor breathability and can absorb moisture, becoming a breeding ground for mold. If storing figures in boxes, it is recommended to use plastic storage cases and include dehumidifiers. Furthermore, dust tends to settle from high places, so placing them at a higher position can reduce dust accumulation. However, since there is a risk of them falling due to earthquakes, use anti-slip mats or non-slip measures for safety.

Effective Use of Dehumidifiers

By placing dehumidifiers inside the case or storage box, you can keep the humidity low. There are several types of dehumidifiers, but the silica gel type is recommended for figure storage. Silica gel has a high moisture absorption capacity, and some types can be reused. It is advisable to replace the dehumidifier every three months. Once it reaches its moisture absorption limit, it will no longer be effective, so remember to replace it regularly. Place an appropriate amount of dehumidifier according to the size of the case, and be careful not to let it touch the figures directly.

Measures Against Paint Peeling and Fading

The paint on figures is delicate and can peel or fade due to friction, UV rays, and dryness. Since peeling paint significantly detracts from the appearance, it is important to know both preventive measures and first aid.

Using a Topcoat to Protect the Paint

To prolong the life of the paint, protection with a topcoat is effective. A topcoat forms a transparent protective film on the surface of the figure, protecting the paint from friction and UV rays. Model topcoat sprays are easy to use, and choosing a product with UV cut effects is even more effective. The key to application is to spray thinly and evenly from a distance of 20 to 30 cm from the figure. Applying too thickly at once can cause drips or whitening (the surface becoming cloudy), so apply in thin layers several times. After painting, allow it to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, and if the smell is bothersome, it is recommended to work outdoors or under a ventilation fan.

First Aid for Peeling Paint

If the paint has already peeled, it is difficult to restore it completely, but you can make simple repairs with model touch-up pens like Gundam markers. Choose a marker that is close to the color of the peeled area and gradually layer it to match the color. However, it is difficult to reproduce the exact same color, and the repaired area may stand out. For valuable or expensive figures, consider requesting a professional service instead of attempting self-repair. Companies specializing in figure restoration can repair the paint with professional techniques. However, costs can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of yen, so compare the value of restoration with the cost before making a decision.

Mold and Humidity Prevention and the Importance of Ventilation

Once mold occurs, it is difficult to completely remove it and can seriously damage figures. Understanding the conditions that lead to mold growth and thoroughly implementing preventive measures is crucial. Humidity control and regular ventilation are key to preventing mold.

Dehumidification Measures to Prevent Mold

Mold thrives in environments with humidity over 60% and temperatures between 20 and 30°C. Therefore, keeping the humidity consistently below 60% is fundamental to mold prevention. Placing dehumidifiers is very effective as a mold prevention measure, as it helps keep the humidity low inside cases and storage boxes. Especially during the rainy season and summer, it is recommended to operate a dehumidifier to manage the humidity in the entire room. Additionally, monitoring with a hygrometer and taking immediate action when humidity rises can prevent mold growth. Furthermore, regularly opening the door of the room where figures are stored to create airflow is also important.

Unopened Figures Also Need Ventilation

Unopened figures are often thought to be safe as long as they are in their boxes, but in reality, even unopened, plasticizers can vaporize and accumulate inside the box. Moreover, the inside of the box is a sealed space, making it easy for humidity to accumulate, and if left for a long time, there is a risk of mold growth. Therefore, even for unopened figures, it is recommended to open the box for ventilation about once a month. By opening the box and placing it in a well-ventilated area for a few hours, you can prevent the accumulation of mold and plasticizers. Be careful to avoid dust entering when opening, and perform the task in a clean environment.

Maintenance Schedule and Checklist

Figure maintenance is not just a one-time task; it is effective when done regularly. By establishing a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly schedule and making it a habit, you can minimize deterioration. Here, we introduce an easy-to-implement maintenance schedule and checklist.

Daily and Weekly Maintenance

Daily visual checks are a basic maintenance task that can be done without burden. While admiring the figures, check for yellowing, color transfer, stickiness, and any unusual dust. If abnormalities are detected early, minor interventions can suffice. Weekly light dusting involves lightly brushing the surface with an anti-static brush to remove noticeable dust. This takes about 1 to 2 minutes per figure, and just this habit can significantly prevent dust accumulation.

Monthly and Yearly Maintenance

Monthly thorough cleaning and ventilation is a more comprehensive maintenance than weekly cleaning. Take the figures out of their cases and clean them thoroughly with a blower or air duster. Ventilate the inside of the case and check the condition of the dehumidifier. It is recommended to replace the dehumidifier every 3 months, so check its condition during the monthly cleaning and replace it if necessary. During the annual thorough cleaning, if the figures can be disassembled, clean them part by part, and wash them with water or reapply Renaissance wax as needed. Annual maintenance takes time, but since it is only once a year, take your time on a holiday to do it properly.

Seasonal Precautions

The risks that figures face change with the seasons. During the rainy season (June to July), humidity increases, so strengthen dehumidification measures and actively operate the dehumidifier. This is the time when the risk of mold growth is highest, so monitor it constantly with a hygrometer. In summer (July to August), it is important to manage high temperatures by keeping the room temperature below 25°C with air conditioning to prevent plasticizer bleed. In winter (December to February), dryness management is necessary, as too low humidity can cause paint to crack. Use a humidifier to keep humidity above 40%. However, be careful not to over-humidify, as it can cause condensation; balance is key.

Summary: Keeping Your Precious Figures Beautiful for a Long Time

Figure maintenance can minimize deterioration and keep them beautiful for a long time through correct knowledge and continuous practice. Let's review the important points discussed so far.

The Three Pillars of Maintenance

The basics of figure maintenance are ① preventing yellowing, ② preventing color transfer, and ③ dust prevention. To prevent yellowing, using UV-cut cases, avoiding direct sunlight storage, and switching to LED lighting are effective. For preventing color transfer, protecting with Renaissance wax, avoiding contact between parts, and managing the environment to avoid high temperature and humidity are important. Dust prevention involves regular cleaning (light cleaning once a week, thorough cleaning once a month) and storing in cases. By practicing these three pillars daily, the lifespan of the figures can be significantly extended, and the value of the collection can be maintained.

For More Detailed Information, See Each Specialized Article

This article provided an overview of figure maintenance, but for those who want to know more about each topic, please refer to the following specialized articles. For yellowing prevention, detailed scientific mechanisms of the causes and removal methods after occurrence are explained in the Complete Guide to Figure Yellowing and Sunburn Prevention. For color transfer prevention, detailed usage of Renaissance wax and how to deal with color transfer after it occurs are introduced in the Complete Guide to Figure Color Transfer Prevention. For dust prevention, detailed usage methods for each tool and cleaning techniques by material are explained in the Complete Guide to Figure Dust Prevention and Cleaning. With proper maintenance, figures can remain beautiful for years and decades. Let's build small habits that can be started today to protect your precious collection.