When you collect things as a hobby, damaging one of those rare items can be really disappointing. When you're protecting those goods for their value, any sort of damage can mean losing hundreds - maybe even thousands - of dollars.

If you want to protect your investment or your priceless sentimental belongings, vacuum sealing is a must.

Why Use a Vacuum Seal?
Mold, mildew, dust, sunlight, moisture - those are the main enemies collectors have to worry about. The tiniest amount of water damage, mold or fading can ruin the value of an item. Luckily, a vacuum seal with a FoodSaver® 2-In-1 Automatic Bag-Making Vacuum Sealing System is all you need to protect your goods from mold, moisture and dust. Keep the goods out of direct sunlight, and keeping those collector's items in brand new condition is a piece of cake.

Here's how you do it.

From baseball cards to action figures and model trains, vacuum sealing gives your goods an extra bit of protection.

1. Find the Right Sized Bag
Whether the item is a card, a figurine in a box or a loose product, you can find a bag to fit it in. For loose things or whole decks of cards, you may also consider storing them in a vacuum sealable container. They're not just for food, after all. Containers are especially useful for items with sharp edges that could tear through a bag.

2. Protect the Item from Pressure
Sucking out the air from a bag can add a tiny bit of pressure to an item. This isn't a problem for most goods, but it can be a concern for trading cards or fragile things. Instead of leaving it to chance, put a barrier between the item and the bag. Two clean pieces of cardboard on either side of a card can give it a little extra support, or you can use glass with rounded edges if you'd like to get a glimpse of your collectible in its packaging.

Packing peanuts are great for giving your items a little extra support within their vacuum seal.

For oddly shaped fragile items, consider using a container or filling a bag with a soft substance - like packing peanuts or cotton balls - before sealing.

3. Store in a Safe Place
Finally, if you want your item on display, just make sure it's out of direct sunlight and away from any hustle and bustle. A vacuum seal is perfect for fighting moisture, dust and mildew, but it won't do much if the item is knocked around.

With a vacuum seal, your collectibles will be safe for years to come.