How to properly store Consoles/Games for long term.

[Xo4]

I am leaving for the military soon(Air Force) and I really don't feel like selling off my entire collection. So I was wondering what the best way to store my entire collection most likely for a few years until the Air force lets me move into my own place. I have a place indoors that they will stay for the duration of storage, so any tips to make sure they stay good?

[fiddlepaddle]

Limit any electronics exposure to air and moisture by wrapping in plastic, either individually or just by placing a box in a garbage bag. Try to do this in a low humidity environment (for example, when it's not raining), and/or include moisture-absorbing packets in with the electronics. Try to choose a location that will limit the temperature fluctuations during storage. Good luck!

[Mirage]

Agree with fiddle. Also, it would add to the cost, but those bags you can get that you attach a vacuum to, to suck all the air out of them are good. I have some of those from back when they first became available and were relatively expensive. Now, I see them at Menard's and other places for cheap, under several different (off)-brand names. Much cheaper nowadays. IIRC, Harbor Freight was even selling a version. Definitely get the desiccant packs that fiddle mentioned. They're quite inexpensive too.

 

EDIT: Thank you in advance for your service, by the way.

Edited December 4, 2011 by Mirage

[Xo4]

Thanks for the tips and the kind words. Would wrapping each one individually in garbage bags be better than the whole box? I plan on Vacuuming the ones I really like, but I think i have too much to buy a ton of them.

[misspent_youth]

Also, see if you can get your hands on any of that silica gel desiccant (you know, the stuff that comes in those little packets that come in things like shoes or electronics). It'll absorb any humidity that gets in.

[Xo4]

I planned on that for sure. In theory if I throw a few or more of those in a bag the whole box should be ok?

[PeculiarSatyr]

I just throw my consoles in a vat of cosmoline. They'll store indefinetely.

[fiddlepaddle]

I just throw my consoles in a vat of cosmoline. They'll store indefinetely.

What a mess when it comes time to play! Plus, its flammable, it smells, and would probably affect the game labels. It also preserves dead bodies, but I wouldn't want to take a bath in it.