HOW TO PROPERLY STORE AWAY YOUR PHOTOS
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July 13th, 2021
HOW TO PROPERLY STORE AWAY YOUR PHOTOS
Photographs are memories. You want to be completely assured that they are protected during storage. There are numerous factors to consider when storing your oh so precious reminders of the past. As you read further, you’ll understand the suitability of climate-controlled storage to prevent mold, mildew, and fading. Keep in mind that we are discussing developed, not digital, photos.
Choose the Proper Containers for Your Photos
Do not make the mistake of purchasing the cheap albums and boxes for your photos as the quality doesn’t provide you the protection you will need. They could potentially contain acids or adhesives that can harm, age, and degrade your photos. Look for items that are archival quality: photo safe, acid, lignin, and PVC free. Contact Town Centre Self Storage to speak to one of our trained managers for tips and moving supplies.
Properly Load Your Photo Containers
Even archival quality storage containers will not protect your photos if not filed properly.Overfilling an album can cause your pictures to bend or crease. If photos are not affixed properly, they can fall out of your album resulting in loss or damage.
Overfilling a photo box causes the same problems as an overfilled album. Underfilling allows pictures to move around, causing curled or frayed edges and scratches. Additionally, it can cause your photos to stick together in either circumstance. If your box isn’t full, use archival quality dividers to prevent shifting or sticking. Town Centre Self Storage can provide you with wrapping paper/newsprint/packing paper to help take that additional step in protecting your photographs. It’s okay to stack photos loosely if you’re not storing in a humid or high temperature environment but for extra precaution, Town Centre Self Storage has the moving supplies you need.Some additional recommendations:
- Do not use tape or glue to affix photos in albums.
- Mount photos only on archival paper.
- Never hold photos together using paper clips or rubber bands.
- It’s not a good idea to store photos in envelopes because they may stick together.
- If you must write on a photo, use an archival safe writing pen and don’t press very hard. You don’t want indentations in your photos
Properly Handle Your Photographs
Always handle photos with clean, dry hands. Always hold photos by the edge. Never put fingers directly on photos because your hands contain oils and other chemicals that can leave a permanent mark on your photos. Town Centre Self Storage has some gloves for sale to help with handling your photos.
Store Photos in a Safe Place Under Proper Conditions
Climate-controlled storage will probably offer the best conditions for storing photos and Town Centre Self Storage offers both climate-controlled Storage and Non-temperature Controlled Storage. The area in which photos are stored makes a significant difference as to how well they will age. When choosing a location, you need to think about humidity, temperature, and light. You will also want to consider the possibility of flooding and the prevalence of insects and rodents.
Neither the attic, the basement, nor the garage are the ideal places to store your treasured photographs. Insects and rodents like these spaces. These areas also tend to be subject to temperature and humidity fluctuations. Remember to keep photos off the floor, especially if you are in a flood prone area. Town Centre Self Storage can give you tips on what to use in your storage space to take extra precautions to help prevent rodents or insects as well in any climate.
When storing your photos, look for a reputable, secure storage facility that offers climate-controlled units like Town Centre Self Storage, Meadowbrook Self Storage, Knollwood Self Storage, Tonka Self Storage & New Hope Storage that surround the twin cities; metro area of the friendly state of Minnesota . Check that the temperature and humidity levels are suitable for your photos.
Light shouldn’t be a problem because these units generally do not have windows but some may, so it is very important you see a visual of your storage unit prior to taking tenancy. Your photographs are your link to the past. With the proper care and preparation, you and your family will be able to enjoy your memories for generations to come. Visit www.mayflowerproperties.com to find the location right for your storage needs. Our locations are one-stop shops. We can assist you with moving supplies, truck rental and storage at affordable and convenient prices.
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