Essential Tips on How to Store Photos and Preserve Your Family Photographs

Photographs hold some of our most treasured memories. Whether it’s pictures from a family vacation, your child’s first steps, or your favourite photos from generations past, properly storing them ensures they stay in excellent condition for years to come.

1. Handling and Storage: Avoiding Damage from the Start

Photographs are delicate, and handling them carelessly can cause irreparable damage. Always:

• Wash and Dry Your Hands: Oils, dirt, and moisture from your skin can leave marks that degrade photo quality over time.
• Use Cotton Gloves: For especially valuable or old photos, clean cotton gloves prevent oils from transferring to the image. Handle prints by the edges and avoid touching the photographs as much as possible to reduce the chance of smudges.
• Avoid Bending or Folding: Photos can be fragile, and bending them will create creases that are difficult to remove.

2. Choose the Right Storage Environment

Light, temperature, and humidity are the enemies of photograph preservation. Follow these guidelines to maintain an optimal storage environment:

• Temperature: Store photos in a cool space, ideally below 75°F. Cooler temperatures slow down the natural aging process of paper and pigments.
• Humidity: The humidity should be kept between 15-65% to prevent photos from getting damaged by mould. High humidity promotes mould growth, which can destroy your photos. Low humidity can cause brittleness.
• Light: Exposure to direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting will cause photos to fade, become yellow, and cause discolouration. Store them in opaque containers, or if you must use clear ones, ensure they are kept in dark spaces.

3. The Best Storage Materials for Print Photographs

Choosing the right materials is essential for long-term photo preservation. Not all containers and photo albums are created equal—some will actually damage your photos over time.

• Archival-Grade Materials: Whether you're using photo albums, boxes, or envelopes, choose materials that are acid-free (e.g., alkaline buffered paper) and lignin-free. These prevent the breakdown of paper fibers and won’t discolour or damage the photos.
• Plastic Sleeves: Clear plastic sleeves are great for visibility, but only use those made from polypropylene or polyethylene. Avoid PVC sleeves, which release chemicals that can damage the photos over time. Additionally, if you're storing photo negatives, ensure they are kept in archival-quality sleeves made from materials like polyethylene or Mylar, as these protect against dust, scratches, and light exposure.
• Photo Albums and Binders: Opt for photo albums with acid-free pages and avoid adhesive photo albums. The sticky backing in these albums can turn yellow and damage the photos.
• Avoid using rubber bands to bundle or organise photos: they can deteriorate over time, becoming brittle and potentially damaging the photos by leaving marks or even sticking to the surface.
• Photo Boxes: Archival-grade photo boxes are perfect for organising and protecting large collections of photos. Choose acid-free albums or boxes that are not overstuffed to prevent bending or damage, and consider weather-resistant options for added protection in variable environments.

4. How to Store Photos by Category

Different types of photos may require slightly different storage techniques depending on their size, material, and age.

• Old or Vintage Photos: These photos are often more delicate and valuable than modern prints. Always use cotton gloves when handling, and store them in acid-free boxes or Mylar sleeves. These materials prevent physical degradation and protect them from light and air exposure.
• Modern Digital Prints: While modern prints may seem more durable, they are still susceptible to damage. Use the same archival-quality materials as you would for older photos to ensure long-term preservation.

5. How to Label and Organise Photos Correctly

Labelling photos can help future generations understand the stories behind the images. However, improperly labelling them can cause damage over time.

• Avoid Writing on the Back: Ballpoint pens can leave indentations, and ink can bleed through the paper. Instead, use an archival pen specifically designed for photo labelling. Alternatively, you can use acid-free paper to write information and store it with the photo.
• Label Boxes or Envelopes: If your photos are stored in boxes or envelopes, label them with the contents and dates. This not only keeps you organised but ensures future generations can understand the timeline of your collection.

6. Moisture Protection: Avoiding Water and Mould Damage

Water is one of the most common causes of photo damage. Avoid storing photographs in areas prone to moisture, such as attics, garages, or basements. If you have to store photos in such places:

• Elevate Them Off the Floor: If water were to seep in, keeping photos on shelves or in a raised container can prevent them from getting wet.
• Use Airtight Containers: This will prevent moisture from seeping into the container. For best results, use containers that are not only airtight but also moisture-resistant.

7. How Best to Store Digital Photography

While we focus on physical photographs, backing up your collection digitally is just as important. Scan important photos at a high resolution and store them on external hard drives or cloud services. This ensures you have a digital copy in case the original is damaged or lost.

If your photographs or negatives are particularly old or valuable, consulting a professional conservator can ensure they are handled and stored with the highest level of care and preservation.

8. Dealing with Large Photo Collections

If you have a large collection of photos, consider these strategies:

• Use Archival Binders or Boxes: For large collections, invest in archival-quality binders or boxes that are designed to hold many photos while still providing protection.
• Organise by Theme or Time Period: Sort photos into groups like “Family Events” or “Vacations” to make it easier to find specific images later.
• Consider Climate-Controlled Storage: If your collection is too large for home storage or you're worried about environmental conditions, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. This will regulate temperature and humidity, offering additional protection.

9. Framing Photos Without Damaging Them

If you wish to display your photos, use the proper materials to avoid long-term damage:

• Use UV-Protective Glass: This helps reduce light damage. UV glass filters harmful rays that cause fading over time.
• Choose Acid-Free Mats and Backings: When framing, ensure the mat and backing are acid-free. This prevents yellowing and protects the photograph from coming into direct contact with the glass.

10. Protecting Photographs from Insects and Rodents

While you may focus on light, temperature, and handling when preserving your photos, don’t overlook the threat of insects and rodents. These pests can wreak havoc on your collection by chewing through paper, leaving stains, or causing other damage. To prevent this, follow these precautions:

• Choose Durable, Airtight Containers: Using airtight containers is one of the best ways to protect your photographs from insects like silverfish and rodents such as mice. Plastic containers with tightly sealed lids help keep pests out. If you prefer cardboard boxes, ensure they are archival-quality, acid-free, and reinforced to withstand pests.
• Avoid Storing Photos in Pest-Prone Areas: Rodents and insects are often attracted to basements, attics, and garages, where humidity levels and temperatures fluctuate. Instead, store your photos in well-ventilated areas inside your home.
• Use Pest Deterrents: Consider using natural pest deterrents such as cedar blocks or herbal sachets to repel insects and rodents without exposing your photos to harsh chemicals.

Finding the Right Storage Solution with SpaceMate

When it comes to finding the right space to store your photos, SpaceMate offers an excellent peer-to-peer storage solution. Not only does it connect you with local, flexible storage options, but it also allows you to find storage that suits your specific needs, whether it's climate-controlled or secured away from light, moisture, and pests.

FAQ

1. What are the Best Ways to Store Family Photographs?

When it comes to storing family photographs, the key is to choose methods that prevent damage from environmental factors. Using archival-quality materials is crucial. Consider using a photo album made of acid-free materials, which can help to keep your photo collection safe. Alternatively, a photo box can provide a great way to store photographs without exposing them to light or dust. Always ensure that any materials used, such as plastic sleeves or dividers, are also acid-free.

2. How Can I Preserve My Favourite Photos for Years to Come?

To preserve your favourite photos, it's essential to handle them carefully. Avoid using adhesive products that contain acid, as they can lead to deterioration over time. Instead, opt for self-adhesive or archival-safe products. Store your prints in a photo album or a photo box that provides a protective environment. You might also consider digitising your photos to store them on a hard drive for added security. Additionally, keep your photo storage in a stable, climate-controlled environment to avoid moisture and temperature fluctuations.

3. What Types of Storage Containers are Recommended for Photographs?

The best storage containers for photographs are those made from archival-quality materials. Look for photo boxes or albums that are labeled as acid-free to prevent any chemical reactions that could harm your photographic materials. Plastic sleeves that are specially designed for photo storage are also a safe option. Avoid using cardboard boxes or containers that are not acid-free, as they can break down over time and damage your photos.

4. How Should I Organise My Photos for Easy Access?

Organizing your family photos is vital for easy access and preservation. Start by categorizing your photo collection by event, date, or family member. Use folders inside your photo box or album to keep everything tidy. You can also use dividers to help with organisation.

Further Resources:

• Store Space – "The Best Way to Store Printed Photos Long-Term"
• Family Handyman – "Best Ways to Store Old Print Photos"
• Simply Seed – “How to Store Photos & Safeguard Them from Natural Disasters”