Keeping movie collectables in mint condition is a point of pride for film fans across the UK, but it is especially important to the growing collector community in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear. Humid North-Sea air, tight terraced housing, and busy commuter lifestyles can all take a toll on fragile boxes and screen-accurate replicas.
This guide walks you through a professional preservation routine using affordable tools you can pick up locally or order directly from Just Geek - your one-stop geek store for everything from acid-free sleeves to display-ready cases.
Whether you collect Harry Potter wands, Marvel statues, or limited-edition steelbooks, the right preservation strategy can safeguard your investment and keep your display looking sharp for years to come.
Why Preservation Matters to Jarrow Collectors
Local Climate Challenges
Tyne and Wear’s average annual humidity hovers near 80 per cent. Combined with seaside salt particles, that moisture can warp cardboard boxes or corrode metal accents on high-end figures. Using a silica-gel-based Collector’s Kit makes a measurable difference in how long items stay pristine.
Limited Space, Maximum Value
Many collectors in Jarrow live in semi-detached houses or modern flats where space is tight. Proper storage prevents boxes from sagging on crowded shelves, maintains resale value, and frees room for fresh additions, like the latest Just Geek exclusive.
Rising Secondary Market Prices
Recent eBay sales show that a mint-boxed LOTR Treebeard Tubbz statue now sells for £100+. Keeping packaging crisp and scuff-free is the quickest way to protect that potential profit.
The Just Geek Collector’s Kit: What You Need
| Tool | Why You Need It | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|
| UV-filter Acrylic Display Case | Shields figures from harsh sunlight in south-facing Tyne and Wear windows | £29.99–£49.99 |
| Acid-Free Archival Sleeves | Stop poster yellowing and box art fading | From £6.99 (10-pack) |
| Silica Gel Packs | Control humidity in display cabinets | £4.99 (20-pack) |
| White Cotton Gloves | Prevent skin oils from staining glossy packaging | £3.99 |
| pH-Neutral Cleaning Cloth | Gently remove dust from resin and PVC | £5.99 |
Step-by-Step Preservation Routine
1. Unbox Like a Pro
Document the Condition: Snap photos of every panel before unsealing tabs. This helps prove authenticity if you ever resell.
Save Internal Packing: Films, foam, and ties keep the figure snug if you move house (common for young pros moving from Jarrow to Newcastle).
2. Control the Environment
Target Humidity: Aim for 40–55 per cent. Place two silica packs in each cabinet. Replace packs every six months; set a calendar reminder.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: North-facing walls in a Jarrow Victorian terrace are ideal. If that’s impossible, invest in UV-filter cases.
3. Handle with Care
Wear cotton gloves when rotating figures or sliding steelbooks from sleeves.
Never lift heavy resin statues by delicate parts like swords or capes. Support the base instead.
4. Clean Quarterly
Use pH-neutral cloths.
For dust in tight crevices, a camera air-blower works better than compressed air, which can leave propellant residue.
5. Store Boxes Correctly
Flatten inner cardboard flaps carefully; avoid hard folds that create white stress marks.
Use archival sleeves for boxes. They fit snugly yet allow air circulation, reducing moisture traps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How often should I replace silica gel packs?
Every six months in Tyne and Wear’s damp climate. Colour-changing packs make monitoring easy.
Q2. Can I display figures in sunny rooms if I use UV-filter cases?
Yes, but rotate displays monthly. Even UV cases can’t block 100 per cent of light.
Q3. Are quarter arcades safe to run daily?
Absolutely. Just keep vents dust-free. Our Quarter Arcades include UK-compliant power supplies.
Q4. Do I need gloves for modern PVC figures?
If you plan to sell later, yes—finger oils cause long-term paint dulling.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Preserving movie collectibles is as much about pride as it is about value. With the Just Geek Collector’s Kit, film fans in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear can protect prized pieces from North-East humidity, sun fade, and everyday wear.
Questions about storage or need a tailored recommendation? Reach us any time at help@justgeek.com or via our contact form.
Keep your collection cinematic, safe, and ready for the next blockbuster addition—delivered by Just Geek.
