How should I store banknotes?

Hello! I started collecting banknotes pretty recently, and I need to find an affordable solution to store them long-term without them being damaged. I was thinking of putting them individually in some sort of plastic sleeve, but I don't want anything leeching into them over time. I also don't really want them in binders because the pages may warp and curve the notes over time. Also, I need it to be relatively affordable as I collect on a budget, and not cost a fortune to ship to Canada. Is there some sort of sleeve I could put them in that won't ruin my bills?

Thanks!

I would use a bank note safe plastic sheet that you can put in a index (which is what I do)

Where would I be able to get these? These sound really useful!

For a box: https://www.amazon.com/Currency-Paper-Protector-Sleeves-Regular/dp/B00NDCVJ20/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2X1EBPG1LYOG3&dchild=1&keywords=bcw+banknote+sleeve&qid=1593722042&sprefix=Bcw+banknote%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-2

Bigger notes: https://www.amazon.com/BCW-3-Pocket-Currency-Coupon-Binder/dp/B003GPVC58/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2X1EBPG1LYOG3&dchild=1&keywords=bcw+banknote+sleeve&qid=1593722042&sprefix=Bcw+banknote%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-3

Smaller notes: https://www.amazon.com/50-Ct-4-Pocket-Storage-Horizontal/dp/B00GPC62UO/ref=sr_1_4?crid=2X1EBPG1LYOG3&dchild=1&keywords=bcw+banknote+sleeve&qid=1593722042&sprefix=Bcw+banknote%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-4

Thanks! I'll consider ordering some.

I think BCW brand is the best, but you'll find a common themed problem: No two banknotes are the same size. So, you have 2-pocket, 3-pocket, 4-pocket, 4-pocket long, 6-pocket, 9-pocket (get the point?). You get a bit overwhelmed at having all the sizes, BUT, it does make your collection look fantastic.

BUT....

You must make sure you use modern banknote pages. Older ones had acid compounds or PVC in them, which damaged the coins or notes.

As far as binders, I like to use Amazonbasics zipper binders for at least three reasons. First, things don't fall out. Second, the notes are protected from light. Third, the notes are protected from accidental small spills. PLUS, you have the added benefit of extra pocket space for supplies.

Thanks

I'll add to my thoughts.

I am one of those types who doesn't want a collection that gathers dust in a safe. If I can't see it, use it, show it off--what's the point?

The biggest question to answer is what do you want?

There are a lot of great preservation methods, each has its own drawback.

You have to decide what YOU want out of your collection, then mold your displaying based upon THAT. And sometimes, you might not find something perfect--and that's when you have to improvise!

Yes, you will want decent currency sleeves which I've linked for you on eBay.

DO NOT go TOO CHEAP on these since they will be in constant contact with your notes. I have heard that thin currency sleeves often cause polymer banknotes to curl. There are many banknote holders now made in China with PVC and these will react & eventually ruin your banknote. You want Mylar or PVC-free. Lighthouse, Safeguard & BCW but they should not be super thin (2mil) but 5mil and be sure you get the right size (many sellers sell fractional & US currency is smaller & some barely fit CDN notes.


8 X 4 top loading but thick enough so you can hold the holder and note is necessary. A lot of the ones being sold on eBay these days are aimed at collectors who are on a budget and they're really a rip-off (IMO) especially if you find your note curling/fading due to O2 leaching.

I use sleeves. But then I put the sleeves in the Royal Canadian Mint Monster boxes.
if you go to my youtube channel, numismatic notes with Benjamin, you can see my banknote set up.

Would these be good? These are a little pricey, but I don't want to ruin my notes.

Guardhouse Currency Sleeves for Modern Banknotes 100 pack - AMAZON
Frame-A-Coin DuPont Mylar Large Currency Sleeves 8 x 3.5 4-mils Pack Of 100 - EBAY

They should be fine.

Verweis : "Speedymcgreedy"​They should be fine.
​

​Agreed. But these are sold in your province & this seller sells more of the 8 X 3.5 inch "safe" standard which are ideal (& would probably last you a long while).