Pokemon card restoration: what it includes and when to hire a pro
Restoration is about safe, ethical improvements that reduce visible damage without changing authenticity. This guide explains what we can improve, what we will not do, and how to decide if professional restoration is worth it.
What Pokemon card restoration includes
Professional restoration focuses on surface-level improvements and careful handling. Typical services include surface cleaning, light scuff reduction, minor residue removal, flattening, and careful crease reduction. The goal is to improve presentation and, when possible, pre-grading outcomes.
We document condition before and after, explain risks, and only proceed with methods that do not alter the card's original structure or ink.
What restoration does not include
- No recoloring or ink repair
- No rebuilding missing paper
- No structural alterations
- No grade guarantees
- No techniques that change authenticity
- No aggressive polishing that thins stock
DIY cleanup vs. professional restoration
Light dusting with safe tools can be fine at home, but most damage comes from using the wrong solvent, pressure, or abrasive material. If a card has surface residue, dents, or edge whitening, the risks of DIY fixes are high.
For examples of what to avoid, see myth-busting home remedies and how to handle adhesive residue safely .
When hiring a pro makes sense
- High-value cards where a grade bump matters
- Surface grime, light scuffs, or residue
- Foil cards with mild warping
- Cards you want to display or grade
- Severe creases through art
- Missing paper or ink loss
- Low-value cards with high restoration time
- Cards already in excellent condition