Storing Lionel in clear plastic open end bags

May depend on the type of plastic (example, many people suggest that bubble wrap plastic can leave marks), but Lionel used to often place engines in plastic sleeves (probably sheets more recently) before placing them in the Styrofoam.

I assume you are only worried about dust?  The bag alone won't protect much of anything physically.  (aside from maybe light scratches from incidental contact)

-Dave

George ,

I've been using plastic bags for storing locos and rolling stock in their original boxes for years, actually decades! I haven't noticed any negative effects. However, if you don't use them and the metal parts on the locos and rolling stock are in contact with the cardboard boxes, they can develop rust or corrosion. A good example of this is the rust frequently seen on postwar 6464 boxcar door guides. I'm convinced that rust comes from the moisture absorbed by the box and passed on to the door guides which are in direct contact with the paper box. I also notice some occasional rust on the tips of loco wheel flanges that have been in direct contact with the cardboard boxes or liners.

I plan to continue use of plastic storage bags but I can only comment on my personal experience.

Ken

I assumed since he only mentioned bags, he meant only bags (no boxes).

Maybe I read the post too literally.

-Dave

I have been storing trains by placing them in food grade plastic bags and then either wrapping them in newspaper or placing them in an individual box since around 1973. I have not experienced any problems.

I leave them open and punch a few holes here and there to avoid trapping moisture.

I've never had any problems with the plastic Lionel used in the 80's.

Rod Miller

Keep and room temperature, low humidity, out of the sun, away from grease / oil.
There are archival bags available from Amazon.

Just from what I have done I dropped a passenger car through a double ended bag. Just be careful. I store stuff differently usually puppy pads 

Been using 'em for years, no problems.  Since the mfrs ship 'em in plastic, one assumes they know from whence they speak.

Bubble wrap works fine, provided you don't use it on freshly painted items until the paint has fully and completely cured.  Don't ask me how I learned this.  ;-)

Mitch

For longer term storage I use acid-free paper to wrap them, and then use whatever padding you deem suitable.

I use clear bags from my green grocer...good way to reuse and recycle...just make sure the bags are dry......never had a problem...