Quick Answer

To store board games without damage, keep them upright on sturdy shelves, away from sunlight and moisture, and use inserts or bags to prevent components from shifting. For long-term protection, consider a dedicated storage area with consistent temperature and humidity.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Board games are more than just cardboard and plastic; they hold memories and hours of fun. Improper storage can lead to warped boards, bent cards, and crushed boxes, which not only look bad but can also affect gameplay. By investing a little time in organization, you can extend the life of your games and keep them in pristine condition for years.

Choosing the Right Shelving

The foundation of good board game storage is the shelf itself. Look for shelves that are deep enough to accommodate standard game boxes (about 12 inches) and sturdy enough to hold their weight. Adjustable shelves are a bonus, as they let you customize spacing for taller or shorter boxes. Avoid overcrowding; each game should have enough room to be removed and replaced without dragging against its neighbors.

7 Steps to Store and Organize Your Board Games

  1. Sort and Declutter: Go through your collection and remove any games you no longer play. Donate or sell them to free up space and make your organization more manageable. A leaner collection is easier to store and maintain.
  2. Choose a Dry, Cool Location: Avoid attics, basements, or garages where temperature and humidity fluctuate. Instead, pick a closet or shelf in a climate-controlled room to prevent warping and mold. Consistent conditions are key to preventing damage.
  3. Store Games Upright: Place game boxes vertically like books on a shelf. This prevents the weight of stacked games from crushing the bottom boxes and keeps components from shifting. Upright storage is the safest way to protect box integrity.
  4. Use Inserts and Baggies: Keep components organized with plastic baggies, small containers, or custom inserts. This prevents pieces from rattling around and getting scratched or lost. A place for everything keeps your games in mint condition.
  5. Protect from Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade box art and components. Store games away from windows or use UV-protective covers on shelves. Shade preserves the vibrant colors of your game boxes.
  6. Reinforce Weak Boxes: If a box is showing signs of wear, reinforce corners with clear tape or use a box protector. This prevents further damage and keeps the box intact. A little reinforcement goes a long way.
  7. Label and Organize by Size: Group games by size or type to make shelving more efficient. Use labels or clear bins for small parts and expansions. A tidy shelf not only looks great but also makes it easy to find what you need.

Products That Help with Storage

  • The SPILL DELUXE edition: with full color wood tiles: The SPILL DELUXE edition comes with 56, 2-sided, full color wood tiles for a more tactile experience. 36 Sea Life tiles and 20 Weather Effect tiles are included. Games with many small components, like The SPILL DELUXE, benefit from organized storage solutions such as compartmentalized inserts or baggies, preventing pieces from mixing and getting damaged.
  • TESSERACT: a cooperative, puzzle strategy game: The Tesseract features a cube of 64 dice, sitting on a rotating platform to examine all angles. The unique central component of TESSERACT requires careful handling and storage to avoid losing dice or damaging the platform. A padded insert or designated spot on your shelf can protect it.