Placing items of value inside a storage unit can give you some significant peace of mind. But if you’re planning to use the unit to store old photographs, you need to prepare them properly, so they remain in top condition no matter how long you plan to leave them there. Here are four helpful suggestions to keep in mind.

How to Prepare Old Photographs for Storage

1. Use Gloves to Handle Them

Wear gloves when handling your photographs, so you don’t risk smudging them with fingerprints or leaving natural skin oils on the surface. If possible, only hold a photo from the sides and avoid touching the actual image.

2. Look for Climate-Controlled Units

Something as delicate as an old photograph may not survive if you store it in a warm, humid unit. Look for a climate-controlled storage space to help protect the photos’ colors, which might otherwise be vulnerable to fading.

3. Place Them in Protective Packaging

Don’t just stick old photographs into an album with adhesive. Although that’s quick and convenient, it’s often impossible to remove the images without ruining them.

Opt for a magnetic album instead, or use sleeves made without PVC to hold the images. If these aren’t options, you can even use sandwich bags to preserve your pictures.

4. Store the Photos Carefully

Even in a climate-controlled space, you don’t want to place the photos in a box on the floor or a shelf. A flat, plastic box is preferable to cardboard, as it’s easier to lock and you can easily see what’s inside.

Avoid stuffing the box to the brim; fill it just enough, so your pictures don’t jostle around, but not so much that everything is crammed inside. If there’s some wiggle room, use non-acidic packing paper to fill the gaps.

If you’re seeking a safe space to store your old photos, look to Advantage Storage in Flower Mound, TX. They offer climate-controlled storage units to keep your most precious belongings safe. With 31 convenient locations throughout Texas, Colorado, and Arizona, it’s easy to find a unit near you. Visit them online to find out more about their options, or call the storage facility at (972) 212-5225 to find out about availability.