🛡️ How do I properly protect my cards?

Jul 25, 2025

By Jeremy Warken

The big accessories guide for collectors

Whether Pokémon, One Piece, or sports cards—anyone who's ever caught the collecting bug knows: Proper storage is worth its weight in gold . Not just for aesthetic reasons, but also because many cards can increase in value over the years. And nothing would be more annoying than scratches, dents, or UV damage to your favorite treasures.

In this guide, we'll show you how to protect your cards in the long term , what you should pay attention to, and which products we can recommend based on our own experience.

💬 Why is card protection so important?

Trading cards aren't just paper. They're memories, investments, works of art. And whether you're just collecting for yourself or plan to sell them someday, the condition of your card (mint, near mint, played, etc.) has a huge impact on its value.

A single crease or fingerprint can cost hundreds of euros. Therefore, protecting yourself early saves you trouble later .

📦 The 5 most important accessories for TCG collectors

1. Sleeves – The first layer of protection

“Like a glove for your card.”

Standard card sleeves are a must – best to insert them immediately after opening!
They are available in matte, glossy or with a motif.
Fit matters : Make sure you get the right size! Pokémon & One Piece = Standard Size. Yu-Gi-Oh! = Japanese Size.
Tip: Use “Perfect Fit” sleeves as an inner layer for double protection (double sleeving).

Recommendation : Kobra Collect Card Sleeves 67x92mm Standart

2. Toploader – Stable and reliable

“The classic among card safes.”

Rigid hard plastic sleeves, perfect for single cards.
Ideal for shipping, selling or storing in boxes.
Combined with a sleeve it's unbeatable.
Available in various thicknesses – also for patch cards and promos.

Recommendation : Kobra Collect Toploader 3x4" 35pt (25pcs)

3. Magnet Holder – For your most valuable cards

“If it can be a small shrine.”

Magnetically closable cases – perfect for expensive or particularly beautiful cards.
UV protection, sturdy construction and a sophisticated look.
Also available in versions with a stand for display.

Recommendation : Kobra Collect Acrylic Magnetic Holder 35pt UV-Protect

4. Binders & File Folders – For organization with style

“Leaf through like a picture book from your childhood.”

9-pocket binders with zipper protect against dust and light.
Ring binders for interchangeable pages or fixed albums with side binding.
Important: Pages with “Side Load” – prevents falling out.
Extra tip: Sort by color, type, or hits for a better overview.

Recommendation : Kobra Collect 9-Pocket Premium Collectors Album with Zipper Sch

5. Frames & Displays – When collecting becomes decoration

“Because some cards are works of art.”

Frame for graded cards or toploaders – ideal for hanging.
Acrylic stands or wooden displays showcase your favorite cards.
For shops, trade fairs or the home – real eye-catchers!

Recommendation : Kobra Collect Acrylic 3 Card Magnetic Holder 35pt UV-Protect Black Border

For standing: Kobra Collect Acrylic Card Stand Vertical

👀 What is often forgotten – Our extra tips:

Don't touch the screen without a sleeve! Oils, sweat, or crumbs quickly ruin the surface.
No sun, no moisture. Direct UV radiation causes cards to fade – best stored in a cool, dry place.
Develop a sorting system. Once thought through, chaos will never return: whether by set, color, value, or personal significance.
Transport? Only with hardcase or deck box!

🛍️ Our recommendations in the shop:

For the perfect start, you'll find exclusive bundles with sleeves, toploaders, and holders—tailored to your favorite game. Discover now at:
👉 Buy TCG accessories – Sleeves, toploaders, binders & more at Habibicards

💡 And on TikTok?

We will soon launch a short video series on this topic:
“How do you properly protect your cards?” with real examples, tips, and little fails – to laugh along with, learn from, and imitate.
Follow us so you don't miss anything! (99+)Habibicards (@habibicards) | TikTok

Conclusion:

Card protection is not a luxury – it is a must for anyone who wants to enjoy their collection for the long term.
Whether you're sorting your boosters in a beginner-friendly way or displaying valuable vintage cards, accessories turn your hobby into an experience on a new level.