Read something similar on a prepping forum a few months back. Someone mentioned keeping candles in sealed plastic bins with silica gel packets to absorb moisture, which makes a lot of sense after hearing your story. Another tip I remember is to store them off the floor by at least a few inches, even if you don't have shelves, just using bricks or wood planks can help. Cardboard boxes on concrete are pretty much a disaster waiting to happen, especially in a basement. Sounds like you learned a tough lesson but at least the rest of your stuff might be safe now.

Keep chasing those number ones if it makes you happy, but remember that collecting is just like buying anything else we get hyped about. The thrill of finding a cheap old issue wears off fast when you realize everyone else has a copy too. Real value comes from what you actually enjoy reading, not from what the market tells you to want.

Honestly just go for it but keep it simple. That's the key. Grab a cheap mini fridge, give it a good clean with vinegar first though it helps kill any leftover smells. Stick a small USB fan in there to keep air moving and you're golden. I did a 30 day dry age on a prime rib roast last month and it came out with this deep nutty flavor that blew my mind. The crust got all dark and crispy but the inside stayed super tender. Just make sure you wrap it in cheesecloth or something to catch any drips so you don't mess up the fridge.

Pulled my can close one night and woke up to a raccoon. Learned fast.

Backpack is faster off the bike, panniers wreck your knees if you carry them up stairs - nobody talks about how the real choice is between sweat and stair lunges.