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Photo Storage
Best Way To Store Printed Photos Long Term
Archival storage of old photos is crucial to preserve these valuable memories for future generations.
Here are some best practices and options for storing old printed photos long-term:
Use acid-free and lignin-free storage materials to prevent chemical reactions that can deteriorate photos over time. Acid-free paper, photo corners, and sleeves are ideal choices.
Choose high-quality, acid-free photo albums with archival-safe pages. Avoid albums with adhesive that can damage photos. Albums with clear sleeves or pockets provide protection while allowing easy viewing.
Store photos in archival-quality boxes that protect them from dust, light, and physical damage. Use boxes that are slightly larger than the photos to prevent bending or creasing.
Place acid-free, buffered interleaving paper between photos to prevent them from sticking together. This also helps to absorb excess moisture and protect against acid migration.
Store photos in an environment with stable temperature and humidity levels. Avoid areas prone to extreme fluctuations, high humidity, or direct sunlight, as these conditions can accelerate deterioration.
Avoid using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics for storage materials, as they can release harmful chemicals that damage photos over time.
When handling old photos, wear clean, lint-free cotton gloves to prevent oils and dirt from transferring onto the photos.
Consider scanning your old photos and creating digital backups. Store the digital files on multiple devices and cloud storage for added security.
Include relevant information about the photos, such as dates, names, locations, and any historical context. This metadata can be stored with the photos to provide valuable context for future generations.
Periodically inspect your stored photos for signs of deterioration, mold, or pests. Early detection can help prevent irreversible damage.
For particularly valuable or delicate photos, consider seeking professional archival services. These experts can provide specialized storage solutions and preservation techniques.
If you choose to display old photos, use UV-protective glass and acid-free matting to prevent fading and acid damage. Keep framed photos out of direct sunlight.
If you display photos in frames or albums, periodically rotate the displayed items to reduce exposure to light and prevent overexposure of specific photos.
If you’re uncertain about the best practices for storing a specific type of photo, consider consulting with a preservation specialist or archivist for personalized advice.
Remember that proper archival storage is an investment in preserving your family’s history and memories. By taking the time to store old photos correctly, you can ensure that they remain intact and accessible for generations to come.
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From disc-sized wallets to large-format presentation binders and several sizes in between, and with design possibilities including clear overlays and digital printing, UniKeep products feature outstanding customization potential.
Contact Unikeep at 4266 Tuller Road, Dublin, Ohio 43017
Email: co*****@un*****.com; or phone 800-829-8117
