How to store valuable CDs
CDs are durable, but the paper around them isn't. Most value lost in storage is lost from the packaging.
Upright, supported, out of the sun
Store cases vertically and packed snugly enough that they don't lean. Leaning warps digipak card and stresses jewel-case hinges. Keep shelves away from direct sunlight — spine fading is the most common and most visible damage to a collection.
Temperature and humidity
Stable room temperature and moderate humidity. Lofts, garages and conservatories swing too far and encourage both mould on booklets and, over years, delamination at the disc edge. Damp is the enemy of paper inserts far sooner than it is of the disc.
Protecting OBIs, slipcases and sleeves
Use resealable outer sleeves for Japanese pressings, mini-LP sleeves and card slipcases. Store the OBI on the case as issued rather than loose in the booklet, where it creases. Don't tape anything, ever.
Handling and cleaning
Hold discs by the edge and centre hole. Clean with a soft lint-free cloth wiped from the centre straight outwards — never in circles, which grinds arcs along the track path. Water or a dedicated disc cleaner only; solvents attack the lacquer.
Disc rot, honestly
Bronzing affected specific plants and years, mostly around 1988–1993, and shows as a brown tint on the play side. It cannot be reversed. If you own early pressings, check them occasionally and keep them dry.