How to Store Puzzles to Keep Them in Perfect Condition

Quick Answer

Store puzzles flat in a dry, cool place, ideally in their original box with pieces in a resealable bag. For works in progress, use a puzzle mat or board to keep pieces safe between sessions. This prevents lost pieces, bending, and moisture damage.

Jigsaw puzzles are a beloved pastime for all ages, but nothing is more frustrating than discovering a missing piece or a warped board when you're ready to assemble your favorite eeBoo design. Proper puzzle storage is essential to keep your puzzles in pristine condition, ensuring they can be enjoyed again and again.

Whether you're a casual puzzler or a dedicated enthusiast, understanding the best ways to store puzzles can save you time, money, and heartache. From preserving the box to organizing pieces, these practical tips will help you protect your investment and keep your collection ready for the next challenge.

Why Proper Puzzle Storage Matters

Puzzles are more than just a pastime; they are intricate works of art that require careful handling. When puzzles are stored improperly, they can suffer from bent pieces, faded images, and even mold if exposed to humidity. For high-quality puzzles like those from eeBoo, which feature beautiful illustrations and sturdy pieces, proper storage ensures that the artwork remains vibrant and the pieces fit together perfectly.

Moreover, storing puzzles correctly helps you keep track of all pieces. Losing a single piece can render a puzzle incomplete, which is particularly disappointing for collectors or families who enjoy revisiting their favorite puzzles. By implementing a few simple storage strategies, you can avoid these common pitfalls and extend the life of your puzzles.

• Prevent moisture damage by storing puzzles in a dry area.
• Avoid stacking heavy items on top of puzzle boxes to prevent crushing.
• Keep puzzles away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Storing Completed Puzzles

If you love to display your completed puzzles, you might choose to frame them. However, if you prefer to keep them for future reassembly, proper storage is key. The most common method is to carefully break the puzzle apart and return the pieces to the original box. To make the next assembly easier, consider storing pieces in a resealable plastic bag after sorting them, or even better, keep the bag inside the box to prevent them from shifting.

Another option is to use a puzzle storage system, such as a puzzle roll or a flat portfolio case. These allow you to store a completed puzzle intact, so you can take it out and admire it or transfer it to a frame later. This method is especially useful for large puzzles, like the 1000-piece Scandinavian Garden Puzzle, which can be cumbersome to reassemble from scratch each time.

• Use a puzzle roll to store completed puzzles without taking them apart.
• Label storage containers with the puzzle name and piece count for easy identification.
• Consider purchasing a puzzle board that allows you to slide the puzzle into a storage sleeve.

Storing Puzzles in Progress

Life often interrupts a puzzling session, and you need to clear the table. Instead of leaving your puzzle out, invest in a puzzle mat or a portable puzzle board. These products allow you to roll up or slide your work-in-progress without disturbing the pieces. A puzzle mat typically consists of a felt surface and an inflatable roller, which you can use to roll up the puzzle and store it safely.

If you don't have a puzzle mat, a simple cookie sheet or a piece of cardboard can work in a pinch. Just ensure the surface is flat and sturdy, and cover the puzzle with a cloth or plastic wrap to keep dust and pets away. This way, you can safely store your puzzle between sessions and resume exactly where you left off.

• Use a puzzle mat or board to store works in progress.
• Cover your puzzle with a lightweight cloth to protect it from dust.
• Keep puzzle pieces in a separate container to avoid losing them.

Organizing Your Puzzle Collection

If you own multiple puzzles, organization is crucial. Store puzzles upright like books on a shelf to save space and make it easy to browse your collection. However, be cautious: if the boxes are not tightly packed, pieces can shift and mix. To prevent this, ensure each box is sealed with tape or stored in a plastic bag before placing it on the shelf.

For eeBoo puzzles, which come in sturdy, beautifully designed boxes, you can also store them flat in a drawer or bin. If you have limited space, consider using a filing system with expandable folders, each labeled with the puzzle name. This method works well for smaller puzzles, like the My Farm Alphabet 36 Piece Giant Puzzle, which can be easily slipped into a folder.

• Store puzzle boxes upright to save space, but ensure they are sealed.
• Use clear plastic bins with lids to protect puzzles from moisture and pests.
• Group puzzles by difficulty or theme to make selection easier.

Steps to Store Your Puzzles Properly

1. Sort and bag pieces: After completing a puzzle, carefully disassemble it and sort pieces by shape or color if you wish. Place all pieces in a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out excess air before sealing. This prevents pieces from shifting and getting lost. Checkpoint: Ensure the bag is fully sealed before storing to avoid spills.
2. Store the box upright or flat: Place the bag of pieces inside the original puzzle box. Store the box upright on a shelf or flat in a drawer. Avoid stacking heavy items on top, as this can crush the box and damage the pieces. Checkpoint: If storing upright, make sure the box is not overstuffed to prevent bulging.
3. Use a puzzle mat for works in progress: If you need to pause a puzzle, use a puzzle mat to roll it up. Lay the puzzle on the mat, roll it gently, and secure with the provided straps. Store the rolled mat in a dry, cool place. Checkpoint: Ensure the puzzle is completely dry before rolling to prevent mold.
4. Protect from moisture and sunlight: Store puzzles in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight and humidity. Basements and attics can be prone to moisture, so choose a closet or shelf in a living area. Checkpoint: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas to protect your puzzles.
5. Label and organize your collection: If you have multiple puzzles, label each box with the puzzle name and piece count. Organize them on a shelf or in bins, grouping by theme or difficulty. This makes it easy to find the puzzle you want and ensures each is stored properly. Checkpoint: Periodically check your puzzles for any signs of damage or pests.

Puzzle Storage Considerations for eeBoo Puzzles

• World Map 100 Piece Puzzle: eeBoo's award-winning World Map 100 piece jigsaw puzzle will provide wanderlust to all ages! Countries and oceans, landmarks and beasts make our world what it is, North, South, West and East. Learning about it can be such a snap if you spend lots of time looking over this map! Also includes a glossary and icons. Illustrated by Saxton Freymann. This educational 27 x 18 inch... This puzzle's large size and educational value make it a favorite for repeated use. Proper storage ensures the 100 pieces stay together and the map remains intact for learning adventures.
• Scandinavian Garden 1000 Piece Puzzle: Offering vivid color and plentiful detail, you can almost breathe in the clean Nordic air in this bountiful garden beside a Swedish cottage by artist and textile designer Cecilia Pettersson. • 1000 sturdy, dustless, double-coated puzzle pieces that snap together with ease • Includes a curated, puzzle playlist from the artist. Scan the QR code on the back of the box to hear the songs the artist listens to while they... With 1000 pieces, this puzzle requires extra care during storage to avoid losing pieces. The sturdy, dustless pieces are durable, but proper storage prevents damage and keeps the vivid colors vibrant.

By following these puzzle storage tips, you can keep your eeBoo puzzles in perfect condition for years to come. Whether you're storing a completed masterpiece or a work in progress, a little care goes a long way in preserving the quality and enjoyment of your favorite puzzles.