How to Clean and Store Board Games the right way! Discover easy cleaning hacks, smart storage tips, and maintenance tricks to keep your games looking new.
Cleaning and storing board games properly keeps them looking new and ready for play. Use a microfiber cloth, mild soap, and organized storage boxes to protect boards and pieces. Regular checkups, repairs, and smart storage prevent damage and extend the life of your favorite games.
How to Clean and Store Board Games
Board games are meant to bring joy, not frustration. But sticky cards, dusty boards, or missing pieces can quickly ruin a good night.
When every piece is in its place and each board is in top condition, you can set up in minutes and dive straight into the fun. A little care now means more time rolling dice and plotting your victory.
Here’s how to keep your collection in winning shape.
Assess the Condition of Your Board Games
Before diving into a deep clean, give your games a quick once-over. Check boards, cards, and pieces for wear and tear.
Keep a small notebook handy and jot down anything that looks off—creases, stains, or missing parts. It’ll save you from future guesswork when it’s time to repair or replace something. Turning this into a habit means you’ll catch small problems before they snowball into bigger ones.
If you’re the checklist type, make a simple tick-box system. That way, you’ll never overlook that one piece that always seems to vanish into thin air.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start sprucing up your collection, round up the essentials. A soft microfibre cloth is ideal, as it clears dust and fingerprints without damaging cards or boards.
If you need to tackle stubborn smudges, mix a small amount of mild soap with water. Earth Choice and Morning Fresh are reliable options, and you can find them easily at Coles or Woolworths.
For smaller items such as miniatures, tokens, or detailed accessories, use a soft brush. A clean makeup brush or an unused pastry brush from Kmart or Big W works well for reaching into narrow spaces.
Storage helpers also make a difference. Zip-lock bags, Sistema containers, and craft organisers from Spotlight or Officeworks keep game pieces sorted and safe from damage.
It is best to avoid heavy chemical cleaners, as they can harm delicate surfaces and fill your home with an unpleasant odour.
Finally, set up a designated cleaning station on a kitchen bench or dining table so everything you need is within reach and the process flows smoothly.
Clean Game Components
Once you have your supplies ready, unpack each game and lay out the pieces. Group them into sets so nothing gets misplaced.
Start with the boards and cards. Wipe them gently with a dry microfibre cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. For pieces with fine details, such as miniatures, a soft brush will help you reach into grooves without scratching the surface.
If you come across stubborn marks, lightly dampen your cloth with a mild soap and water mix. While you’re at it, try to keep moisture to a minimum so the pieces do not warp or lose their shape.
After cleaning, place everything on a clean towel or drying rack, and let it air-dry completely before packing away. This is especially important for plastic components, which can trap moisture if stored too soon.
Fabric items, such as dice bags or play mats, can be washed by hand with a gentle detergent and left to dry in the shade. Before you return all the pieces to their box, do a quick check to make sure they are fully dry and ready to be stored.
Repair or Replace Damaged Parts
Keeping your board games in good condition means fixing small problems before they grow. A torn card can be mended with clear tape, while a broken token can often be repaired with a dab of craft glue. These quick fixes add years to your games.
For damage that is beyond a simple repair, look for official replacements from the game’s publisher.
Many companies will post spares for a small fee, and some hobby stores, such as Good Games or The Games Capital, can help you track down missing parts. Online marketplaces like eBay or Gumtree can also be useful for finding second-hand sets to salvage.
When repairs are not possible, think creatively. Substitute missing tokens with everyday items like coins or bottle caps. You can also design a custom replacement with materials from your local Officeworks or craft store.
Organise and Store Loose Pieces
If you’ve ever spent ten minutes crawling under the couch looking for a missing pawn, you know the pain. Luckily, a few smart storage tricks can save you from ducking under the sofa mid-game and keep every pawn, die, and token where it belongs.
Small parts like tokens, dice, and miniatures are best stored in resealable zip-lock bags or small plastic containers.
Labelling each bag or container with the game’s name will also save you time during setup and prevent the frustration of searching for a missing piece.
For more delicate items, such as painted miniatures, padded boxes and bubble wrap provide extra safety and protection.
By keeping things neat, you will have all your game parts within reach and in great shape, ready for the next game night.
Choose the Right Storage Conditions
How you store your board games makes a big difference to their lifespan. A cool, dry space is best, so avoid stashing them in the shed, garage, or attic, where temperature changes and humidity can cause warping or mould.
Shelving units in a spare room or living area are far more reliable and also make your collection easier to admire.
Stacking games upright, much like books, prevents boxes from being squashed. Sturdy shelving from IKEA or Bunnings is a popular choice because it keeps everything organised rather than piled on the floor.
If you want to go the extra mile, airtight containers from Spotlight or Howard’s Storage World protect against dust and moisture, especially if you live in a coastal area with high humidity.
Don’t Forget Regular Maintenance and Checkups
To keep your board games in great condition, it helps to give them a proper check every few months.
Open each box, even the ones you do not play often, and give the pieces a quick clean. A soft cloth will remove dust, crumbs, and fingerprints that build up over time.
You can also check for any damage and make small repairs before the problem grows. A checklist can be handy here, helping you keep track of what has been cleaned and what still needs your attention.
In many households, it is easy to tie this routine into a Saturday tidy-up. If you already have the vacuum running and the washer on, a quick review of your games can slot neatly into that rhythm.
The extra care means your collection will always be sharp, complete, and ready for the next roll of the dice.
Enlist the Help of Experts
Some board games, especially vintage finds or collector’s editions, need more than a quick wipe. For these, bringing in professional help can be a smart move.
A weekly cleaning service is a great option, but there are also hobby shops across Australia that provide restoration advice and services.
If you own rare games or imports, a conservator can give tailored guidance on protecting them for the long term. They may even suggest custom storage solutions that go beyond the basic bookshelf.
By combining your regular care with the expertise of professionals, your collection will not only stay tidy but also maintain its value. This is especially useful if you have games that are both a personal favourite and a collector’s item.
Conclusion
Board games have a way of holding memories, from childhood classics to marathon sessions with friends.
A little care now will keep those stories alive for years to come. Just look after your collection, and it will return the favour with countless nights of laughter, rivalry, and the occasional victory dance in your lounge room.
FAQs 🧩
- How often should I clean my board games?
You should clean your board games every few months or after every big game night. This helps remove dust, fingerprints, and stains before they build up. Regular maintenance keeps the colors bright and prevents pieces from getting damaged.
- What’s the safest way to clean game cards?
Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface of each card. Avoid water or cleaning sprays since moisture can cause warping. If sticky residue appears, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap can help—but dry immediately afterward.
- How can I store board games to prevent damage?
Store games in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight or humidity. Use shelves to keep boxes upright like books to avoid crushing. Airtight containers or zip-lock bags also help protect against dust and moisture.
- What should I do if pieces are missing or broken?
First, check the manufacturer’s website—many offer replacements for a small fee. You can also look for spare parts in hobby stores or online marketplaces. If all else fails, get creative and substitute with coins or small household items.
- How do I clean delicate or collectible board games?
For vintage or rare games, avoid harsh cleaning products and moisture. Gently dust them with a soft brush or cloth and store them in airtight boxes. If the game is valuable, consult a professional conservator for safe restoration advice.
