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You could be in a treasure trove of worthwhile children’s films.
Streaming has replaced going to the video store, but VHS tapes are becoming increasingly popular among collectors.
Classics like Back to the Future and films with a cult following like the original Fast and the Furious fetch thousands on eBay.
But before you sprint to the garage or rummage through the attic, proceed with caution: the condition of these tires will determine their selling price.
Sorry, that copy of “Aladdin” you watched 50,000 times as a kid is a dud.
eBay says about 250,000 VHS tapes are sold on the online sales platform each year.
Additionally, it revealed that eBay buyers have spent more than three million dollars on VHS tapes.
Have you ever wondered how long your old VHS tapes last?
Their magnetic particles can deteriorate over time, causing a loss of image and sound quality. Under ideal conditions you’re looking at 10 to 25 years.
That’s a big range, so let’s take a look at the factors that play a role in it.
● Storage Conditions: Tapes stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, perform better. Humidity and high temperatures are not good.
● Playback Wear: Minor wear occurs each time a VHS tape is played. Over time this can lead to tracking issues and visible ‘lines’ during playback. That’s why your childhood favorites have gotten so mixed up.
● Mold is the enemy: When stored in humid conditions, mold can grow on the tapes and damage the video and audio. Once mold has developed, it is difficult to restore the tape to its original condition.
● Proper rewinding: Believe it or not, using a special tape winder instead of the VCR’s rewind function can extend the life of the tape. It reduces the load on both the VCR and the tape.
VHS tapes aren’t forever. If you have precious moments or rare finds on VHS, consider converting them to a digital format to ensure they stand the test of time.