The foremost rule in caring for your Beanie Baby collectible is to PROTECT THOSE HEART TAGS! A damaged or absent hand tag can reduce the collectible value of a Beanie by (+-) 50%!  No small amount in view of the price many serious collectors are willing to pay.  Heart tag protectors are clear plastic covers that slip over the tag and protect it from damage and can be purchased in any number of ways.  There are many websites that offer the tag protectors.  Reputable dealers, retail stores and magazines can also help you protect the value of your investment.
It is also crucial to protect the Beanie Baby itself.  Tupperware®  containers provide the perfect airtight environment for the protection of the materials of the Beanie.  With a large collection, however, the cost in these containers may exceed the return!!  Another much more cost effective alternative, are the sealable plastic "to-go" boxes used in many restaurants.  These also provide good living conditions for the collectable Beanie.  Placing the Beanie in a sealed poly bag that is acid free is a must for Beanies, especially those that are white or light in color.  Even briefly touching a white Beanie can be the kiss of death for the condition of its coat.  When you hold the Beanie in your hands, the oils on your skin (even in very small quantities) attach to the surface of the Beanie and attract dust, effectively soiling the coat and dramatically reducing the value of your collectible!  Take care of those little bean bags and you will reap the rewards!!

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