Storing jerseys in poly bags

[Samets]

I saw other threads on storage options but wanted to discuss something specific... I know that many of us store our jerseys in poly bags (ziplock) but there are so many brands, thicknesses and materials used...

For example, I found some bags that say that they are archival quality and are:
* LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene)
* Sulfur free.
* Latex free.
* BHT free (Butylated Hydroxy Toluene).
* Amide, Amine, & Silicon free.

They are obviously more costly but are they worth it?
Do you just buy whatever bag is in your local Walmart or do you get archival quality bags?

[happyyoungster]

I use regular jumbo Zip-Loc from my Wal-Mart. I keep them stored dry, cool and out of light...haven't had any issues.

[joetiger83]

Great question! I wonder the same thing. Currently I store mine in zippered "Suit Bags" from my local Meijer's grocery store. They aren't 100% airtight but they do keep all the dust and humidity out, I also store them in a closet out of the light.

[alexbartacustoms]

I just found jumbo Ziplock storage bags at my local hardware store.
They are big enough to store a jersey by folding it in half below the numbers so they don't get creased.
I have sucked the air out with a straw before I seal the bag making it pretty tight and waterproof.
These are also much less expensive than the space bags that allow you to vacuum out the air.

Alex

[Samets]

I was thinking about 14" x 20" so I can fold the shirts and still see the name and the number.

My concern is the quality...

I can get 2 Mil non achival bags on the low end or 6 or/and 8 Mil archival bags for 2x as much...

I think, I'll try the 6 mil bags...

[HawaiiSportsNut]

Ziplock bags contain PVC, )polyvinylchloride). Over time they will leach out on to your jersey & will cause brown spotting on them. I would absolutely stay away from the regular grocery store type of Ziplocks. Make sure whatever type of bags you use are PVC free.

[Samets]

Ziplock bags contain PVC, )polyvinylchloride). Over time they will leach out on to your jersey & will cause brown spotting on them. I would absolutely stay away from the regular grocery store type of Ziplocks. Make sure whatever type of bags you use are PVC free.

Exactly why I was thinking archival quality is the way to go...

[HawaiiSportsNut]

Exactly why I was thinking archival quality is the way to go...

I use something like what is sold by this company.
http://www.archivalmethods.com/product/crystal-clear-bags

$85 for 100 bags is a good price, but I pick mines up from my local picture framing shop. It cost $2.00 each but I can buy 10 or less at a time. The size that I normally use is about 24"x30".

From what I learned, is that garments such as jerseys need to breathe. So keeping it completely sealed in a Ziplock bag is not good. Unfortunately living here is Hawaii the high humidity damages the jersey so I had to invest in a dehumidifier which I got from Sears. It is best to keep the humidity at 55-60%.

[metsbats]

If you are going to bag jerseys I'm assuming you will fold them. Be careful if the jersey is autographed as the autograph may bleed into the part of the jersey which was folded on top of the signature (i have jerseys which previous owners have done this and see the results) I prefer to hang my jerseys in a rack enclosed in a vinyl or plastic housing like this one

http://www.bedbathstore.com/eavicrcl...FURU4godzDAAoQ

[HawaiiSportsNut]

Unfortunately those bags contain PVC. Also hanging the jersey for long periods of time causes them to stretch out at the shoulder area.

I prefer folding the jerseys. I also refold them every six months so that they won't develop creases. As for autographed jerseys, I place lignin free/acid free tissue paper on the underside & over the autographs. It slows down the fading of the autograph. Also if you handle your jerseys a lot try to use clean cloth gloves the oils from your hands will cause harm to your jersey. Cotton gloves works the best.

Here's a seller that explains about lignin free paper.
http://thelinenlady.com/acidfreetissue.htm

Cotton gloves
http://www.universityproducts.com/ca...ct_list&c=1053

*Note: I am not promoting any of these sellers.