Storing

Here’s what to do with all the items that are too valuable to let go of—even if you can’t find the room to show them off.

• Be sure to use archival-quality storage boxes and other supplies, available at most home-supply stores, to protect paper, photographs, and other delicate items from breaking down.
• It’s important to sweep, scrub, and otherwise clean the storage area before using it.
• You also should clean the objects you are storing before putting them away.
• Make an inventory of your objects before you devise a system, and measure roughly how much space is required. That way, you can tailor your storage space to fit your boxes, bags, and bins, not the other way around.
• Even with the best storage system, some things require occasional monitoring. Refold a linen tablecoth along different creases periodically; air out upholstered items on a sunny day.

Where to Store

• China, glassware, and other objects made of durable materials are impervious to the damaging conditions found in unfinished basements and attics. Be sure to check frequently for leaks, especially after a heavy rainfall or extended periods of snow on the ground or roof.
• Never store photographs and other precious family documents in the attic or basement, as they cannot withstand temperature extremes. Fine silks and tapestries are vulnerable, too. Put these items in a spare closet or the backs of cabinets—even if you have to move other things to do so.
• Finished basements and garages also have more temperate conditions for storing collectibles, even more delicate ones.

Metal Matters

Not all metals are created equal. Here are special considerations for the more common collectibles.

Brass

Because this alloy of copper and zinc tarnishes easily, many pieces are coated in clear lacquer. Problem is, the lacquer can chip and the metal underneath can begin tarnishing—and then the coating must be removed. That’s why most collectors choose the unlacquered variety. As a general rule, liquids and polish-soaked cloths work well for light to medium tarnish; pastes and creams do a better job on heavier tarnish. Or you can make your own polish by mixing equal parts salt and flour with enough white vinegar to make a paste; apply it to the piece, let dry, rub off with a soft cloth, then wash and dry.

Copper

Outdoor decorations made of copper are often left to develop a green patina. Cookware is usually polished: Sprinkle the cut side of a lemon half with salt, then rub it over the copper, which will soon gleam.

Silver

To remove light tarnish, handwash your silverware (do not place in the dishwasher) and buff dry with a soft cloth. Use commercial polish for deeper stains. When silver isn’t in use, you can hinder the tarnish process by storing it in anti-tarnish or acid-free tissue paper, or protective cloth bags.

Martha Must

I fell in love with copper cookware decades ago while in Paris. The pink-gold color is just gorgeous, and the metal is also superior to other materials for many cooking chores. My vast collection of pots, pans, bowls, and more is not just for show. I put the items through the regular round of use, polishing them each time until they are gleaming again.