Surf 11 » Tips for Storing Old Photos

I have been doing some research to find out what the best way to store lots of old picture is.

Here are some tips I have gathered.

• Products like cardboard and paper can harm photographs and should only be used if labeled acid free.
• Plastic sleeves should be constructed of uncoated polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene.
• Look for an acid free storage box, if plastic it should be constructed of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate) or polyethylene and NOT PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
• Don't use magnetic albums.
• The ideal temperature for photo storage is around 68° F.
• For negatives 30-40° is actually the ideal temperature.
• Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

Here are some sites I used for reference:

• http://antiques.about.com/cs/photographs1/ht/StoringPhotos.htm
• http://www.chaddsfordhistory.org/history/care.htm
• http://aic.stanford.edu/library/online/brochures/photos.html
• http://www.creativescrapbooking.com/topics/storage.htm